Passalacqua
Via Besana 59, 22010 Motrasio CO, Italy
Web: passalacqua.it
Tel.: +39 031 44311
Price: Suite from approx. €1,000 per night

The Italian Lake Como is one of the most beautiful destinations in Europe. Pliny the Younger already raved about its aesthetics, Verdi composed "La Traviata" on its shores, Winston Churchill came to paint and Alfred Hitchcock shot his first film on its shores in 1925. No wonder, since historic palazzi with lush gardens line the waters framed by mountains. A particularly enchanting property is Villa Passalacqua. It is located above the village of Moltrasio. Its seven acres of terraced gardens spill down to the lakeshore. Originally built in the 18th century, it was privately owned until recently. But in the summer of 2022, the villa now opened as a boutique hotel on Lake Como. It is a member of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts.

The villa was originally built by Pope Innocent XI. © Passalacqua

Passion project

The villa's renovation lasted three years and nothing was left to chance – the experienced De Santis family of hoteliers made sure of that. In addition to Villa Passalacqua, they run the famous Grand Hotel Tremezzo located on Lake Como as well. With just 24 suites, every aspect of the interior, the facade and the park are a sight to behold, breathing new life into the historic building. Guests can now look forward to frescoes, chandeliers made of hand-blown glass, and secret minibars. No two suites are alike and they are spread across three different villas.

No two suites are alike. © Passalacqua

But that's not all: there's a 200-year-old greenhouse, JJ Martin parasols, olive groves, magnolias, the beguiling scent of the lush flower beds and fresh flowers daily. The interior boasts select antiques that will appeal to art lovers and history buffs. Twenty different types of Italian marble, cotto Lombardo tiles and reclaimed original wood floors complete the villa's Italian opulence. Guests enjoy afternoon strolls through the garden and down to the lake, where a Fiat 500 is always on call to take them back to the villa.

The impeccably designed gardens are begging for a lazy mid-afternoon stroll. © Passalacqua

Aesthetic and culinary pleasures

A stay here couldn't be more relaxing. Instead of designated dining areas, there's a "home away from home" approach, meaning guests are free to eat wherever they like; on the terrace with stunning views; or down in the rose garden. Chef Elio Sironi, formerly the head chef at Bulgari Hotels, designs magnificent changing menus, and Chef Mauro and his team cook up a storm in the excellent kitchen. The ingredients for the fine cuisine come from the villa's own garden, among other places.

Need to cool off? Look no further? © Passalacqua

By the way, guests are also allowed to help themselves here. They are invited to collect fresh eggs and pick cherries, kiwis and apricots. In the middle of the vegetable garden, a game of bocce helps to pass the time. To stay active on vacation, an open-air gym surrounded by olive groves is available as well. Next to the lake, guests can enjoy a tennis court, an outdoor cinema and, of course, a pool and a spa. The real attraction, however, is Lake Como itself. The best way to explore it is on one of the two vintage boats that belong to Villa Passalacqua. 

Passalacqua
Via Besana 59, 22010 Motrasio CO, Italy
Web: passalacqua.it
Tel.: +39 031 44311
Price: Suite from approx. €1,000 per night