Elite Traveler Summer 2023

Clockwise Villa D’Este sits on the shores of Lake Como; the delightful gardens; the Cardinal Suite; the hotel has a 25-acre park

VILLA D’ESTE, ITALY Clinging close to the shores of the ever-iconic Lake Como is Villa d’Este — a grande dame of a hotel that seemingly does the impossible by living up to its tall reputation. The property itself dates back to the 16th century and was originally built as a summer residence for the Cardinal of Como, Tolomeo Gallio. Following the cardinal’s death, the property passed through the hands of several noble Italian families before coming under the ownership of Caroline of Brunswick, Princess of Wales, in the early 19th century. It wasn’t until 1873, however, that Villa d’Este was transformed into a hotel, but it became an instant classic. Its glittering status has led it to become a favorite among a new cohort of royalty: Hollywood royalty. The hotel famously played host to Lady Gaga, who stayed in the lakefront Villa Cima while fi lming Ridley Scott’s Houseof Gucci , and Tinseltown sweetheart Elizabeth Taylor reportedly retreated to one of its suites at the beginning of her infamous a ff air with Richard Burton. Nowadays, glamour all but seeps from the hotel’s very walls. A total of six dining o ff erings are dotted across the property, including the elegant Veranda restaurant, as well as a vast sport and wellness facility o ff ering no less than eight tennis courts, outdoor and indoor pools, and a comprehensive beauty center. The surrounding gardens are equally as delightful, with the magni fi cent 25-acre park showcasing classic styles from throughout the centuries — much of the space is blatantly Baroque, but a gentle amble through the greenery also reveals inspiration from the Renaissance and picturesque movements. It’s a time capsule in a garden. Each of the 152 rooms is worth writing home about but, for those wanting something completely out of the ordinary, opt for the Cardinal Suite. Located in the main building, the lavish suite is known for its ruby-red and golden color scheme and grandiose furnishings. Highlights are aplenty, but the outdoor terrace tops them all. Covering over 950 sq ft, the sprawling balcony overlooks the glittering lake below and makes the perfect spot to enjoy an alfresco breakfast or a golden-hour aperitif — bellissimo . Cardinal Suite price upon request. Contact Patrizia Penna, reservation manager, patrizia.penna@villadeste.it, +39 031 348 853, villadeste.com