Discovering the Glamour of Lake Como: Journey Through Villa D’Este, Le Sereno, and Mandarin Oriental Milan
Nestled in the heart of Italy, Lake Como has long been a magnet for those seeking beauty, tranquility, and a touch of luxury. While George Clooney may have brought Hollywood glamour to the region with his stunning lakeside villa, just a stone's throw away lie many equally captivating options for those looking to explore the lake's charm.
Villa D’Este: A Glimpse of Timeless Elegance
Our adventure began on a misty October day, as we arrived at Villa D’Este. Despite the rain, the hotel’s charm was undeniable. The moment we stepped into the vast lobby, we were enveloped by warmth and sophistication. The long, narrow space was flooded with natural light, illuminating the intricate mosaics and grand chandeliers. Plush couches beckoned us to sit, while floor-to-ceiling windows framed stunning views of the majestic Lake Como. Our suite was nothing short of spectacular. With high ceilings adorned with ornate cornices, rich brocaded drapes billowing slightly from the gentle breeze, and plush furniture that invited relaxation, the room exuded timeless elegance. The spacious walk-in closet felt like a small dressing room, enhancing the luxurious experience.
Exploring the small city of Como was a highlight. Wandering through Cobblestone Streets lined with charming piazzas, we discovered upscale boutiques, artisan markets, and cozy coffee bars. Eager to soak in the beauty of the lakeside, we opted for a scenic 4-mile walk back to Villa D’Este. The route hugged the shoreline, offering breathtaking views of shimmering waters and beautifully manicured parks. Upon our return, we settled onto the lakeside patio for an indulgent afternoon snack paired with a crisp glass of wine. It was the perfect way to unwind after our adventures.
A Day on the Lake with Vianoce Boats
No visit to Lake Como is complete without a day on a private boat, and we quickly realized why. Alessandro, our captain, was a local with a passion for the lake and a wealth of knowledge. His perfect English made it easy to engage in conversation as we glided across the water on a stunning 26-foot Italian boat. As we cruised along, Alessandro regaled us with stories of the famous villas dotting the shoreline—each with its own colorful history. From the opulent Villa Carlotta to the romantic Villa del Balbianello, every site was steeped in tales of love and intrigue. For lunch, Alessandro recommended a charming lakeside restaurant, where we enjoyed delicious local dishes while basking in the serene surroundings. What struck us most was Alessandro’s laid-back approach; he never rushed us, allowing us to savor each moment on the water. His enthusiasm and professionalism made our day truly special.
Le Sereno: Modern Elegance Overlooking the Lake
Our next stop was Le Sereno, a contemporary masterpiece perched on the hillside. After navigating a hair-raising drive off the main road, we were rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Como. The hotel’s design is a stunning blend of modern architecture and natural beauty, ensuring that every space—from the lounge to our room—offered a view of the shimmering lake.
The aesthetic was captivating: a mix of exposed concrete and steel paired with warm wooden accents and chic Italian furnishings. Every detail felt carefully curated, making it a visual delight.
Though we didn’t dine at the hotel, the menu and wine selection looked enticing, leaving us eager to return for a meal. The floating pool, perched above the lake, provided a dreamy vision of relaxation, and I could easily imagine myself lounging there on a warm summer day.
Mandarin Oriental Lake Como: A Luxury Experience Above the Rest
The hotel is perfectly perched on the cliff overhanging Lake Como. Because of that the views are very majestic. You can see for miles in three directions and trust me there is a lot to see. One of the first thing that strikes you as you enter, the property is the level of professionalism and the quality and quantity of service available to-each guest. Another striking feature is the decor. It’s a perfect combination of modern and traditional Italian that provides eye stimulus everywhere you gaze. Top marks to the designers. There are a lot of room categories on offer. So hopefully something for everyone. If you have a nice budget, the Mandarin oriental has some of the best high-end suites on the lake while the entry level rooms are tastefully laid out with everything you could possibly- except your own private lap pool. The fitness area is not huge, but it has all the essentials for a decent workout. The spa is large with many treatment rooms and an Uber extensive menu of services. They recently upgraded the Spa area. The property has sprawling gardens that are immaculately kept. Central to the waterfront portion of the hotel is a humongous floating swimming pool. Around the pool is an abundance of deck space and a very trendy poolside restaurant. I can imagine it to be quite the scene on a sunny August day. I was there in October, so I’ll have to go back to confirm that! We had a fantastic lunch overlooking the lake. It’s one of those places where you can ask for whatever you want, and they seem to come up with it. Two out of the three things we ordered we’re not on the menu, but they improvised to give us what we wanted. The Mandarin Oriental at Lake Como is missing very little. I would have no problem recommending this Hotel to even the most spoiled luxury traveler. For my eye, they seem to have everything close to perfect.
From the opulence of Villa D’Este to the modern elegance of Le Sereno and the unparalleled service at the Mandarin Oriental, our journey through Lake Como and Milan was truly unforgettable. Each destination offered a unique glimpse into Italy’s rich tapestry of culture, luxury, and natural beauty.