Relais Villa Vittoria, Laglio, Lake Como, Italy - Explore & Book

"In general, the thought of minimalism seems to give Italian interior designers a heart attack. But here at Relais Villa Vittoria, on the banks of Lake Como, a little restraint has yielded beautiful results. What was once a holiday home for a Milanese noble family is now an elegant 19-room hideaway, with gauzy curtains billowing on four-poster beds, cosy nooks for savouring wine, and lawns that spill down to an infinity pool overlooking the water. It has a fresh and contemporary feel, with high ceilings, lots of light, and the bonus of a superb restaurant in the conservatory. It has history, too - the mulberry garden raised silkworms for the area’s famous fabrics - but never revels in it. Come here to relax and be cossetted, indulging in massages in the small spa and snoozing under the jasmine pergola in the garden, the peace broken only by the gentle hum of passing boats and seaplanes. Or take to the lake yourselves on the hotel’s kayaks (or hire a boat) and picnic in secluded spots unreachable by road. After dark, linger over dinner on the terrace as lights sparkle on the opposite shore. We loved it, and we can’t wait to return. Highs The glamorous infinity pool, set near the water's edge - it’s almost like you’re swimming in the lake (but it’s much warmer!) Smart, spacious rooms, most with stunning views. Splash out on a suite if it's a special occasion We liked the pared-back Italian style on show here Fantastic food and local vintages to sample, plus several famous restaurants nearby if you want to eat out There’s lots to do around Lake Como: boat trips to pretty harbour towns, villas and gardens to visit, hiking and climbing in the surrounding hills Lows The village of Laglio is a quiet spot on busy Lake Como - perhaps too quiet for some You need a car to get the most out of the area It's a popular venue for weddings, especially in high season Dinner is quite expensive, but the quality and setting is well worth it The lift is small (fitting 4 people), slow and a little rickety We haven't seen the new rooms in the Casa Cecilia Annexe for ourselves yet, but their views look dreamy" - Abi Dare