Villa d'Este

Villa d’Este in Cernobbio is something truly exceptional – a property that fully lives up to its reputation as one of the finest hotels in Italy. Every detail reflects thoughtful design, tradition, and an unmistakable sense of exclusivity. The experience begins already at the gate, where professionally dressed staff politely and discreetly confirm your access, ensuring a sense of both security and refined exclusivity from the very first moment. At the entrance, attentive doormen take care of your luggage while you check in, setting the tone for a stay defined by high-level service throughout. We were fortunate to receive an upgrade, which added that extra touch to our visit. Our room was spacious, beautifully decorated, and perfectly located close to the impressive health club and spa area, featuring a pool, a well-equipped gym, and even a squash court. The grounds themselves also offer several exclusive boutiques for shopping, as well as a hair salon. The hotel offers two restaurants: a refined à la carte option and a more relaxed grill restaurant. However, our most memorable moment was spent on the elegant lakeside terrace, enjoying the bistro menu with a glass of rosé at sunset. The atmosphere was simply magical, beautifully accompanied by live piano music performed on a grand piano, set right on the terrace. For drinks and snacks there is also a beautiful pianobar inside, that had live entertainment. The location of the hotel is ideal, within walking distance of the charming center of Cernobbio. A short stroll can be refreshing, yet one quickly finds oneself wanting to return to the tranquility and beauty of Villa d’Este. Having stayed at many luxury hotels, I can honestly say that I struggle to recall anything quite like this. It is easy to understand why the property is considered among the very best in Italy – truly a playground for the privileged, yet also a secluded retreat. If there is one area that clearly fell below expectations, it was the concierge service. At a property of this caliber, one anticipates a proactive, solution-oriented approach – yet even relatively simple questions regarding local excursions could not be answered satisfactorily. When we needed to replace an item we had forgotten to pack, we were merely directed to a shop in town rather than being offered assistance in arranging it through the hotel. At comparable hotels, such requests are typically handled seamlessly by the concierge, with items sourced and delivered directly to the guest – a service we would naturally have been more than willing to pay for. While this did not detract significantly from the overall experience, it was nevertheless surprising to encounter a level of service here that did not align with the otherwise exceptional standards maintained throughout the property. In any case, this extraordinary, fairytale-like property is unlike anything else. I can highly recommend it. This was our third visit – and certainly not our last.

SUPERB ! No other words are necessary. 4 days of pure luxury

unforgettable stay at Villa d’Este. The elegance, the spectacular lake views, and the extraordinary attention to detail make this place truly exceptional. We went there for Andrea Bocelli concert, unfortunately because of rain, it was moved to another location

Lake Como, nestled at the southern foot of the Alps, has long drawn nobles and celebrities with its tranquil beauty and mild, humid climate. Since Roman times, they have built summer retreats along its shores. This stunning lake is not only a romantic destination but also a peaceful haven in the hearts of Europeans, home to numerous luxury villas and century-old hotels. The most famous among them is Villa d'Este on Lake Como. Villa d'Este was originally constructed in 1568 as a summer residence for a cardinal. In 1815, it was renamed Nuova Villa d'Este and gradually transformed into a hotel. A paragon of luxury hospitality, it is renowned for its neoclassical architecture and Renaissance garden design. Its Mosaic Garden, spanning about 25 acres, is one of Italy's best-preserved historic gardens, featuring hundreds of fountains, waterfalls, and pools that showcase the ingenuity of ancient Roman hydraulic engineering. The hotel offers 151 rooms and suites distributed across two historic buildings. Each is furnished with Renaissance-style antique pieces, and some feature balconies overlooking the lake or gardens. Villa d'Este also includes four private villas, particularly favored by privacy-seeking celebrities. In keeping with the local tradition of a winter closure, the hotel undergoes a thorough cleaning and refurbishment each year, ensuring every guest enjoys a unique and fresh experience. For leisure, guests can enjoy a golf club just 12 kilometers away, along with eight clay tennis courts, a squash court, and a fitness center. Dining options are equally impressive. The Veranda restaurant, open year-round, serves continental breakfasts and formal dinners. During the Christmas season, the limited-time Greenhouse bar and eatery offers a festive dining experience. Villa d'Este may lie off the classic tourist trail, but it embodies a heritage shaped over four centuries. It cradles the clear waters and mountain vistas of Lake Como, having evolved from a cardinal's summer palace into a benchmark of luxury. It continues to guard the unique elegance of this landscape. Simply pause beneath its arcades, listen to the breeze, and gaze upon the lake, and you will be drawn into a dream that has lingered for four hundred years.

Best holiday at Lago di Como with family. Breathtaking views, pool, boating, dining on terrace. Plush guest rooms. Outstanding service. We felt very much welcome.