HOTEL SUMMARY

Where 18th-century Italian nobility once practiced the lost art of villeggiatura, Passalacqua in Moltrasio emerges as Lake Como's most coveted address, transforming a historic villa into an intimate sanctuary that captures the essence of authentic Italian leisure. This extraordinary property, crowned The World's Best Hotel in 2023, revives the timeless tradition of seasonal escape with unparalleled sophistication.

Passalacqua's remarkable story begins in 1787 as a private residence that welcomed Pope Innocent XI, Count Andrea Lucini-Passalacqua, and composer Vincenzo Bellini, who filled its halls with music. The De Santis family's meticulous restoration, completed in 2022, preserves original frescoes, stucco work, and architectural details while introducing contemporary luxury through collaborations with Italian artisans. This boutique masterpiece earned the Carlo Alberto Best Boutique Hotel Award 2024 and ranks as Europe's finest hotel, testament to its exceptional vision.

Just 24 individually designed accommodations span three distinctive buildings, each reflecting different facets of lakeside elegance. The main villa houses 12 suites showcasing Italian Baroque grandeur, crowned by the magnificent 2,700-square-foot Suite Bellini with its double-height music room and towering Murano glass chandelier. The eight-suite Palazz, converted from historic stables, embraces rustic charm with exposed wood beams and warm damask walls, while Casa al Lago's four garden-inspired suites feature delicate floral prints and intimate lake views. Gilded mirrors, 19th-century portraits, and Il Bronzetto lighting create an atmosphere of refined opulence throughout.

Dining at Passalacqua celebrates honest Italian cuisine through chef Viviana Varese's seasonal approach at The Garden Terrace, where guests enjoy unfussy dishes crafted from local ingredients while overlooking Lake Como's pristine waters. The open kitchen philosophy encourages intimate interactions, creating the warmth of a private home. The Bar Terrace provides the perfect aperitif setting, complemented by seven acres of manicured terraced gardens featuring olive groves, roses, and magnolia.

Beyond accommodation, Passalacqua offers transformative experiences including lake excursions with resident boatman Beppe, vintage Spiaggina tours in bright orange Fiat 500s, and wellness rituals in the atmospheric spa housed within soaring vaulted halls. Daily activities from flower arranging to gelato-making classes embody the Italian art of living well.

For discerning travelers seeking Italy's most exclusive lakeside retreat, Passalacqua represents the pinnacle of boutique luxury. Book the Suite Bellini for ultimate indulgence, or choose spring and early autumn for perfect weather and garden blooms. Through En Primeur Club, enjoy exclusive amenities and priority reservations at this once-in-a-century destination.