Villa d'Este

Hotel review

A stay at the Villa D'Este is regarded as something of a rite of passage for the high-end traveller. Definitely the Grande Dame of Lake Como, this is romantic lakeside opulence without compromise. The hotel is supremely luxurious and gloriously un-modern, although it does have every up-to-date comfort and amenity you could want for. The bedrooms (bigger than most London flats), suites and villas, all 154 of them, are positively regal with old master prints and oil paintings, indulgently expensive chintz fabrics and trims, high ceilings, enormous balconies, lake views, and the list goes on. You are left in no doubt about the Villa’s aristocratic heritage and it is good to feel part of it for as long as you can afford to stay.

The floating pool upon the lake was the first of its kind and is still spectacular. The manicured grounds - wake up to the sound of gravel being gently raked - are akin to a period film set with cascading water features, towering cypress trees, burgeoning hydrangea blooms, mosaic follies and classical statues to wander amongst.

There's a spa, fine dining restaurant (jacket required), pool, clay tennis court, golf, private boat hire, but perhaps the best thing of all is a having a lazy breakfast or long lunch sitting under the shady trees and umbrellas along the lake shore, watching the elegant clientele and classic Riva motor boats cruising past. You might even spot near neighbours George Clooney and Amal. It goes without saying the service is impeccable, the waiters immaculate, and the food perfectly cooked and presented.

As an eminent Leading Hotel of the World there are inevitably some group travellers here, but do not let this put you off as there is more than enough space to enjoy for a romantic break à deux. Villa D’Este is not your average low-key getaway, but if five-star grandiose splendour on a palatial scale in a picture-perfect location floats your boat, book in!

Caroline Townsend Review published: 08/02/2019