Villa Tesio

Villa Tesio is a horse breeding estate near Lake Maggiore featuring white gates, cypress-lined avenues, and wooden-fenced pastures for thoroughbred horses. The property consists of multiple building clusters and meadows that were originally farmhouses later converted into stables and training facilities.

Federico Tesio founded this estate in 1898, converting local farmhouses into stables to create one of Italy's largest horse breeding complexes. The scientific breeding methods he developed here would influence modern horse breeding practices across Europe.

The property maintains the tradition of selective horse breeding through scientific methods introduced by Federico Tesio in the early 1900s. Visitors can observe how the land and structures still reflect these breeding practices today.

The estate is accessible by car via the A26 highway exit at Castelletto Ticino or by train to Dormelletto station with public parking available nearby. Visits are possible year-round, though spring and fall months offer the best conditions for observing horses grazing in the pastures.

The estate produced champion racehorses including Nearco and Ribot, earning Federico Tesio the reputation of being an expert in genetic breeding innovations. These horses went on to win major races across Europe and brought international recognition to the property.