LAKE COMO, ITALY

Lake Como is a must when visiting Italy. The location is pretty ideal as it’s only about 40 mins from Milan and Switzerland, and just a train ride away from many of the major neighboring cities. It is just as, if not even more beautiful than you could ever imagine. Time seems to stand still here. There’s no huge buildings or massive developments, just the gorgeous lake in its natural, breathtaking surroundings. The hotels are equally as stunning with many of them being historic villas on the most idyllic, exclusive properties. Needless to stay, it’s easy to not leave the hotel which was the case for me. So no long lists here, just some highlights of 2 beautiful properties we visited.

HOTEL VILLA D’ESTE

This is probably one of the most beautiful properties I’ve ever stayed at. There really are no words to describe the majesty and grandeur of how gorgeous this massive villa property is on the waters of Lake Como. All that comes to mind is magical. Immediately upon arriving to this historic estate, you feel transported back to some other worldly time where time stands still and cellphones and watches don’t exist. It literally feels like you’re a guest at some royal’s estate for the weekend. The beautifully manicured gardens, the vibrant florals lining the walkways, and the stunning views of Lake Como are almost too much to take in. Visual overload. And then there’s the famous floating pool that Villa D’Este is known for which offers again, some of the most amazing views of the Lake and its surroundings. in 2009, Forbes named Villa D’Este the best hotel in the world….not too shabby. There’s a few restaurants on the property offering a range of indoor to al fresco dining, so there’s really no reason to leave this hotel at all unless it’s to take a boat ride on the Lake. This hotel is truly the perfect place for rest, relaxation, and pampering. It’s just….heavenly.

il sereno

Opened back in 2016, this is one of the newer hotels on Lake Como making it one of the more modern properties in the area vs all the older historic villas. TBH, I prefer the more historic villa properties, ahem Villa D’Este, but to each their own. Nonetheless, it is unquestionably stylish and luxurious, and worth the visit. A contemporary retreat among it’s neighboring historic establishments, Il Sereno does not skimp on design or elegance. With only 30 suites, this lake front property is a secluded retreat with gorgeous terraces to take in all the views. The bar and restaurant area is beautifully designed and offer some of the most stunning views of the lake. Take a car here or better yet, take one of the many boats on the lake and pull up to the hotel dock to arrive in style.