Italy’s Villa Varda Park: Great Scenes for a Travel Blogger!  

Updated On: April 15, 2024 by   Marwa Abdel Moniem

Sometimes, you need to think like a travel blogger—visit places that will keep you on top of trends, such as Villa Varda Park. It is one of many sightseeing options in Italy that are guaranteed to give you fun and numerous likes on your posts at the same time. In this article, we will let you know more about Villa Varda and its Park in Brugnera in northeastern Italy.

Highly rated among its visitors, Varda is an Italian villa with English landscaping—such a perfect blend of cultures would be a unique experience indeed. It is not just a go-to retreat for relaxation and exercise; the architecture there also adds to the excellent picturesque of the place. You will get loads of reactions!

We will tell you what to expect during your visit to the Villa Varda and its park, but first, let’s take a quick look at its historical background! 

Facts about Villa Varda

In Italy’s municipality of Brugnera, a Venetian-style villa was built in the second half of the 15th century. The Mazzoleni family constructed the Villa Varda in 1450 and made sure it appealed to the style of residences of the notables back then. Its white stone architecture and classic style unmistakably reflect the majestic nature of the villa.  

Owners of the Villa Varda changed over the years. Still, the most recognised development occurred in the second half of the 19th century when the well-off family of Carlo Marco Morpurgo bought the estate and followed the tradition of having an English garden around it.  

For decades later, the Villa Varda was neglected until it came under the municipality of Brugnera. The villa was given the kiss of life. The Villa Varda is now immersed in a large green park—quite a scene to share on Instagram or Facebook to make you go viral!

The Origin of the Name “Varda”

The word “varda” is the Italian variant of “Warda” that was used in Germany in the Middle Ages. It could be translated into “guard” in English as it was considered a guard post near the Livenza River.

It is believed that a military construction once stood there to guard the area and roads, and that’s why it was given that name. That was before the Mazzoleni family bought the land and built their manor when the “Villa Varda” started to be used in reference to the place.

A Visit to the Di Villa Varda Park

Stretching over 18 hectares, the park surrounding the Villa Varda is a mini Central Park, except it is in the Italian city of Brugnera. We are talking about numerous trees and long trails all over the park, where you can get a nice walk or an energetic jog while enjoying many picturesque sites as you go. 

The park is lined by tall trees and contains 15 different species of plants. But what is really eye-catching are the avenues of lime trees, part of the geometric makeup of the park. Other native trees, such as cedar, pine, yew, hornbeam and elm, are found in this green-rich park. 

The Livenza River Adds to the Picturesque Atmosphere

The large park extends along the Livenza River, which runs through nearly one-third of the gardens, with a little inlet around the villa, offering a friendly, picturesque atmosphere. Now you have a touch of greenery and water that add to the spirits of the place, much to your relaxation!

The Orangery for Bookworms 

As you stroll around the park, you will come across the orangery. We are not talking about an orange building here, but in the good old days, it was used as a greenhouse to protect plants in winter. Now it is a book centre where you can enjoy the company of a book during your visit. The orangery could be found near the Villa Varda. 

A Chapel and a Mausoleum of the Villa Owners

This complex also features a renovated chapel that houses the tomb of Fabio Mazzoleni, the original owner who built the Villa Varda. In its new shape, the chapel is now neo-Gothic in style. Today, this chapel could be reserved for small weddings, providing a magnificent backdrop to your magical day.

A mausoleum is also part of the complex where some members of the Morpurgo family, the later owners of the Villa Varda until 1943, were laid to rest. This is worth stopping by if you want to learn about the history of the place you are visiting.  

The Ice House 

This is an underground chest that was used to store food. It used to contain ice that was much needed for the purpose of preservation. This was before 1932 when a tower was established with a water tank inside to supply two fountains that water the gardens.

A Winery and a Silk Farm

This villa-and-park compound once had a large winery and a silk farm. Today, it is surrounded by buildings used for farming purposes. One of the buildings is dedicated to drying the cocoons of the silkworms.

Snippets from the History of the Villa Varda

The Villa Varda has undergone some architectural restoration, making it a perfect venue for cultural activities. An exhibition has recently been launched in a number of west-wing rooms to serve as a museum telling the story of the Villa Varda and the families that lived in it. The exhibition is called “Snippets: The History of a Villa”. This event officially kicked off in September 2022. 

The exhibition includes 192 items that were collected by scholar Corrado Bortolin. That collection was handed over to Brugnera Town Council, which, in turn, made it available for display in the permanent exhibition at the Villa Varda. It includes documents, postcards, photos and furnishing items. 

Bortolin, who wanted to tell the story of the different families who once owned the villa, wrote a book entitled “Villa Varda from the Mazzoleni family to the Morpurgo family”.

Grab a Bite to Stay Upright!

The Villa Varda Park has this place that caters to both your stomach and pocket—the Ristorante Caffè Letterario. The menu is Italian, with main breakfast and lunch dishes served, as well as aperitifs. Do not forget to grab your favourite drink while there!  

This restaurant and café have indoor and outdoor seating, so you need not worry about food while visiting the Villa Varda and its park. Ristorante Caffè Letterario is an excellent dining experience in a fantastic location. 

Brugnera: Home to the Villa Varda & Park

Brugnera, on the map, is a district of the Province of Pordenone in the autonomous region of Friuli Venezia Giulia in northeastern Italy. A commune of a little more than 9,000 residents, this town is blessed with a significant share of Italian attractions that are a must-visit at least once in a lifetime. The Villa Varda and its park are among those highlights. 

How to Reach Brugnera?

The easiest way to travel to Brugnera is by plane. You can book a flight to Venice Treviso Airport, which is the nearest to Brugena. A train from Venezia Mestre to Sacile is another option that you might find helpful. It is your call! 

The Best Time to Visit Brugnera 

Hello, summer! The best time for hot-weather activities in Brugnera starts in late June and ends in late August. So, if you are thinking of visiting the Villa Varda and its park, you should begin planning between these months.

Positive Reviews about the Villa Varda Park

The villa and its park on the outskirts of Brugnera have been given positive reviews from previous visitors who found their peace of heart and mind in this place where the ancient architecture and beautiful nature meet. 

The Villa Varda Park has been described as the right place for couples, families and friends. Even if you are visiting on your own, you will find your perfect retreat from your busy life. What’s better than to shed off responsibilities and enjoy some quality time in such a high-quality place? If everything is positive about Villa Varda Park, why shouldn’t you be?

Do not forget to share your reviews, photos and videos when you visit Villa Varda and its park! Everybody has their particular story and experience to pass on to the next first-time visitors. Remember, not all of us are travel bloggers, but we all seek a perfect place to get some time out from our daily routine.