Love By The Lake
Romance, history and stunning scenery come together at Hilton Lake Como, says Anjana Gosai.
Lake Como has a way of slowing you down to exactly the pace a honeymoon deserves. The water shifts from silver to deep blue, while villas peek out from cypress groves. A boat ride past Villa del Balbianello, made famous by Star Wars, and George Clooney’s home in Laglio is a reminder of Como’s cinematic allure. The ancient Ponte della Civera, a Roman stone bridge, hints at centuries of romance. And then there are the cobbled streets and sunlit piazzas, where you can sip on espresso, enjoy local dishes at wisteria-wrapped trattorias, and soak up the laid back, idle summer life that has lured people to the lake for decades.
For a stay as magical as the surroundings, the Hilton Lake Como, a restored silk factory, blends history with modern comfort and spectacular views of the lake. You can tell that the hotel’s owners, who are architects themselves, have had a hand in every detail, from the sleek, stylish furnishings to the floor-to-ceiling windows that fill the property with light.
Rooms
The hotel includes 170 spacious rooms and suites, each featuring the Hilton Serenity Bed for a restful night’s sleep, along with plush white bedding, smart layouts and elegant furnishings. For a truly indulgent stay, book the Presidential Suite, which features a vast rooftop terrace, a whirlpool tub and an outdoor lounge area. The Loft Suite, meanwhile, offers uninterrupted views of
the lake.
Dining
The lively Rooftop Terrazza 241 serves a menu of Italian classics with a modern twist, from saffron risotto with lake fish to Spaghettoni all’Astice with lobster. Live music and DJ sets keep the atmosphere buzzing every night. Breakfast is served at the indoor Silk restaurant, which includes everything from fresh meats, salads and tasty baked goods. From April to October, the hotel’s Teffeta Garden is the perfect spot to enjoy summer street food from the Nonna menu, inspired by Chef Stefano Ghiemetti’s grandmother’s recipes. The comforting lasagne and tora della nonna (custard tart) are must-trys. Couples can also join a mixology masterclass or a hands-on pizza-making session under the guidance of the expert pizzaiolo.
Wellness
The hotel’s eforea Spa features a hydropool, Finnish sauna and emotional showers that combine heat, mist and soothing aromatherapy. The treatments menu is inspired by the region’s silk-making heritage, with massages, facials and silk-based therapies. The Bamboo Massage is ideal for easing tension. Upstairs, the rooftop infinity pool commands attention – swimming while soaking in the captivating lake views makes it hard to leave.
What to do in Como
• A visit to Como isn’t complete without exploring the lake by private boat. Como Boat Charter (comoboatcharter.com) provides a pleasant experience, taking you past secret coves and picturesque villas.
• Visit Villa del Balbianello, Villa Carlotta or Villa Melzi-each where you can admire the stunning gardens and historic architecture.
• For a memorable meal with stunning lake views, head to Il Gatto Nero in Cernobbio (www.ristorantegattonero.it), a beloved spot among celebrities, including George and Amal Clooney.
• Just a short walk from the hotel, the city of Como is full of boutique shops, historic streets and charming cafés to explore
Nightly rates start at 350 Euros for double occupancy and breakfast.
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