Nestled on the shores of Lake Garda, Italy's largest lake, Villa Portesina is a testament to quiet elegance and historical charm. This residential haven, owned by Polish businessman Dariusz Miłek and his wife, Valeriya Musina, is a sanctuary where they escape the relentless pace of their professional lives. The villa, with its private jetty and beach, offers breathtaking views and absolute seclusion, making it the perfect retreat for the couple and their family.
The estate, located in Portese, within the picturesque village of San Felice del Benaco, was meticulously restored by the acclaimed design studio Coorengel & Calvagrac, under the direction of Michael Coorengel. With over four acres of private gardens, the villa boasts an elegant early-20th-century mansion, a private beach, and a jetty, providing a direct connection to the water for their Riva boat, a symbol of luxury and craftsmanship.
Dariusz's journey to owning this idyllic retreat is a story of determination and success. Born in 1968, he rose from humble beginnings to become a professional cyclist, but an injury halted his sporting career. He then channeled his tenacity into a business empire, founding CCC, a footwear retail company, in 1999. Today, CCC is one of Europe's pre-eminent footwear brands, and Dariusz has expanded his success with innovative retail ventures, cementing his status as one of the Continent's most influential entrepreneurs.
Valeriya, a former basketball player, shares Dariusz's sporting ethos and heads the creative direction at CCC. Her aesthetic flair and strategic sensibility have positioned the brand within the burgeoning market of 'accessible luxury' across Europe. The couple's shared values and strong bond, forged through their athletic backgrounds, have been instrumental in their success.
The villa's allure goes beyond aesthetics. Its history is rich, with Benito Mussolini playing on the tennis court during his stays and the property hosting the poet and literary critic Ezra Pound. The estate's potential was recognized by Dariusz and Valeriya, who saw it as a challenge to restore it to its former glory.
Despite their hectic schedules, the couple prioritizes time with family and friends, spending at least two months a year at Villa Portesina. The daily rhythm revolves around family meals and long, leisurely conversations, with a focus on spending quality time with their children by the pool and on the beach. Dariusz's athletic spirit remains alive, and he enjoys cycling routes around Lake Garda.
The couple's shared passion for art is evident in their collection, which includes works by Italian artists, carefully curated to harmonize with the villa's architecture and historical period. Their values extend beyond their professional success, as they aim to pass on qualities like respect, gratitude, and an appreciation for beauty to their children.
Dariusz's legacy includes championing cycling and basketball in Poland, nurturing local talent, and restoring architectural gems. He hopes to inspire future generations with his values and leave a lasting impact on his children's lives, emphasizing happiness and a deep respect for others.
