Villa D'Este

When Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio chose this stunning location for Villa d’Este in 1568, he knew what he was doing. Converted to a hotel in 1873, the two main buildings bridge Lake Como and the estate’s 25 verdant acres of private gardens. Rooms are opulent and warm, flooded with light and fitted with embroidered drapes and seductive velvets. All have fabulous views, but those wishing for a lullaby of lapping waters should choose a lakeside Deluxe room or a suite (reserve a garden view if you want to be woken by birdsong). A pool and Jacuzzi float on the lake, but you can get even closer to the water thanks to a host of watersports and boat rentals (with or without a captain). Back on land, reserve a table at La Veranda, whose formal ambience, expert wine list and twilight views of Lake Como join forces for a memorably romantic meal.

The most opulent option on the world’s most romantic lake.

A modern hotel. Built in 1568 as the summer residence of Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio, Villa d'Este was transformed into a luxury hotel in 1873. Each room is uniquely decorated and furnished with antiques, silk brocade drapes and oil paintings.

You’re romanced by the beautiful dialogue between Villa d’Este’s Old World elegance and the natural grandeur of Lake Como.

Returning from a morning stroll through the hotel’s gardens, you stop to admire the mosaic decoration cladding the 16th-century nymphaeum before meandering back to your room and its stunning panorama of the sun-gilded lake.

Veranda - Classic and contemporary Italian cuisine ennobled with international touches Grill - Cosy and casual restaurant focused on grilled meat and classic fish dishes Il Platano - Authentic Mediterranean and Japanese flavors blended with influences from around the world. Sundeck - Pool bar for a light lunch or a snack paired with an exquisitely made cocktail Bar Canova and Lake Terrace - The most glamorous place to sip a cocktail; throughout the summer, guests are invited to sit alfresco on the lake terrace