The Breathtaking Beauty of Lake Como
I recently had the pleasure of spending two nights exploring the breathtaking region of Lake Como with my colleague Alison. Our trip was filled with unforgettable moments, from testing out luxurious hotels to tasting delicious gelato.
Our first stop was Aria Retreat & Spa, located on Lake Lugano, just 15 minutes from Lake Como. With its panoramic views of the lake and mountains, this exclusive property boasts a spectacular infinity pool and a luxurious spa area. Catering to guests over the age of 16, Aria offered us a serene and sophisticated experience. We enjoyed a delightful lunch with an amazing view of Lake Lugano, and the attentive staff recommended great food and drinks.
We then transferred to the Grand Hotel Victoria in Menaggio, a charming yet contemporary hotel on the lake. Its prime location allowed us to easily walk to nearby bars, shops, and restaurants. The hotel offered a variety of rooms to suit different preferences, blending Italian charm with modern comforts.
For two nights we were lucky enough to stay at Grand Hotel Tremezzo, where we were captivated by its classic Italian elegance. The iconic entrance made us feel like we were stepping back in time. Our Lake View Deluxe Room provided breathtaking views of Lake Como and retained its original décor. The hotel’s sweet counter in the lobby and delicious breakfast were delightful touches. The grounds, adorned with stunning flowers and trees, surrounded the Flower Pool and T Pizza, a traditional wood-burning pizza oven.
Exploring the lake was easy with the fast and slow ferry terminals conveniently located around Lake Como. Como offered a mix of boutique cafes, luxury shops, and gelato spots. We highly recommend visiting Brunate, a quaint village above Como accessible by a funicular, perfect for a relaxing lunch.
In Como, we visited Vista Palazzo, a boutique luxury property. It’s ideal for couples wanting to explore the city. We then took a 10-minute taxi ride to the Mandarin Oriental, a real highlight of our trip. The hotel, with its blend of Italian décor and oriental elegance, exudes a tranquil and sophisticated atmosphere with a private ferry terminal that offers easy access to the lake.
After relaxing with a latte macchiato at the Mandarin Oriental, we headed to Bellagio, the vibrant hub of the lake. Bellagio buzzed with activity, offering small boutiques and reasonably priced restaurants. Ferries ran late into the evening, making it easy to explore.
On our last morning, we continued to explore the Grand Hotel Tremezzo with its two pools, one over the lake and another in the flower garden, each with its unique ambience. Leaving the resort was bittersweet; we could have easily stayed longer.
Our final stop was Passalacqua, the sister property of the Grand Hotel Tremezzo. A 30-minute car journey along the scenic road around Como brought us to this 18th-century villa with breathtaking architecture. The impeccable service and proximity to a nearby village added to its charm. Guests typically stay at Passalacqua for 1-3 nights
Our time at Lake Como was truly magical, and we can't wait to return to this enchanting destination.
