Sparkling, sunlit dips that lead to spritzes against cinematic mountain views over jewel-toned water—Lake Como might be the most romantic place on earth. While grandeur pervades the luxury hotel scene, it’s hard not to fall in love with Villa Lario, an intimate, 18-suite property that breathes fresh, understated elegance to the storied region.
Tucked between a private lakefront and lush cliffside fauna, Villa Lario spans two acres, with four historic buildings creating an immersive retreat filled with countless vignettes to discover. Once a 19th-century private estate, the hotel marries its classical Italian architecture with modern design. Neutral palettes and an expansive open-air art collection enhance the pool and garden seating areas. Streamlined guest rooms are furnished with sleek silhouettes and dark accents, harmonizing with the property’s centuries-old marble floors and ancient pillars—perfect for those seeking a relaxed take on the classic Como style.
Il Palazzo, our favorite of the four buildings, hosts eight suites. The ground floor holds an airy lounge and bar that opens to the lake front through massive marble pillars – the ideal setting for sipping the hotel’s signature Negroni. Villa Bianca has four suites and is home to the hotel’s restaurant of the same name. The Pavilion building is an independent two-bedroom villa with a private terrace and access to the property’s glassy infinity pool. The Garden Suite is a stand-alone tower with its suite spanning two floors. Ruby-hued aperitifs or an afternoon read can be taken in any of Villa Lario’s heavenly vignettes – secluded in the lush sculpture garden, overlooking the lake’s southern branch at sunset, or the pier before a dip.
WHAT WE ARE PACKING:
Every corner of the property blends sophistication with Lake Como’s natural beauty, catering to guests seeking a serene escape with a hint of celebrity allure. The crowd is aesthetically inclined, embodying a quiet luxury in contrast to the region’s more ostentatious settings. One must pack accordingly for such an experience.
