The hotels that surround Lake Como are as elegant as the great lake itself. The majority are family run and traditional, reflecting locals’ desire to keep things the same rather than flimsy and flashy. Pay a visit to admire the Italian awe-inspiring scenery for yourself this summer with FOUR’s pick of the 5 best hotels.
1 Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni
When it comes to location, this property is hard to beat. Find it in Bellagio, a stunning lakeside town dubbed “the Pearl of the Lake”. Wander through the gardens, owned by the Bucher family, to find exquisite lake views. Dating back to 1873, the opulent interiors recreate a 19th-century environment.
Expect marble columns and staircases, trompe l’oeil, and Murano chandeliers that emulate the elegant feel of the property. If it’s a tan you’re after, head straight to the terrace for a sundowner’s paradise.
Wallet: From £479 per night
Bookings: Click here to make a reservation
2 Hotel Belvedere
If you enjoy hotels with a welcoming feel and fantastic service, pay a visit to Hotel Belvedere. Positioned above the town of Bellagio, rooms here feature classical Italian style – with balconies that call for lake gazing.
The town centre’s a mere ten minute walk away from the hillside property, whichh is surrounded with grounds that demand to be explored. It’s the atmosphere that’s truly captivating – first opened in 1880, it’s since been run by five generations of women of the Martinelli family.
When peckish, take to The Terrace restaurant for an al fresco feast. Meanwhile, if it’s a view you’re after, The Veranda restaurant has floor-to-ceiling windows. Ingredients are sourced locally where possible, with heaps of lake fish dishes.
Wallet: From £119 per night
Bookings: Click here to make a reservation.
3 Villa D’Este
“If a place has a soul, it remains alive forever.” Sitting pretty on the edge of Lake Como, this Italian landmark of a hotel first started its life as a summer palace back in the 16th century and has passed though the hands of everyone from princesses to powerful tsars.
Flash forward to present day and Villa D’Este is known for being one of the world’s most distinguished hotels. Even visiting for an hour-long lunch is a mecca to many. Furnished in Renaissance style with acres upon acres of tranquil turret-topped grounds, this property lives and breathes old world glamour (despite only being an hour’s drive from Milan). But be warned – visit for a weekend and you’ll be hankering for an eternity.
Wallet: Rooms start from £430
Bookings: Phone 00 39 031 3481 or visit villadeste.com to book
4 Il Sereno
Returning this spring for yet another unforgettable season upon Lake Como, Il Sereno is the latest hotel to open on the iconic Italian landscape.
Designed by famed Milan-based architect and designer Patricia Urquiola, the all-suite hotel features 30 suites all hosting furnished terraces and lake views. Elegant yet contemporary design is reflected in all aspects of Il Sereno, each suit features grand high ceilings, only steps from Lake Como’s dazzling waters.
There’s a spa to enjoy as well as the scenery, and guests may complete true indulgence with local yet innovative cuisine may join Berton Al Lago for Michelin Star dining upon the lake. One of six Michelin awarded restaurants in Lake Como, Berton Al Lago has been recognised within only a year of operations for its “Italian dishes that are enhanced with a modern twist”.
Cost: Suites start from £665 per night
Bookings: Visit www.ilsereno.com to make a booking
5 Grand Hotel Tremezzo
A stylish five-star property with Art Nouveau interiors, this hotel is ideal for art fan. Visit to enjoy a floating swimming pool, lush grounds, tennis court and spa – plus more.
A short stroll from the beautiful 17th-century Villa Carlotta, which houses a collection of art works including pieces by Antonio Canova and Francesco Hayez, explorers can also admire a 20-acre garden filled with sculptures and fountains.
For the hungry, there’s plenty to devour. Enjoy creative cuisine in the hotel’s La Terrazza restaurant, while L’Escale Fondues & Wine Bar is a good spot to grab a cheese-laden bite. Should pizza take your fancy, enjoy a T Pizza café in the hotel gardens, serving wood-fired pizzas.
Cost: From £332 per night
Bookings: Visit grandhoteltremezzo.com/en/home/ to make a booking