Passalacqua: A New Lake Como Hotel

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Passalacqua: A New Lake Como Hotel

Abbey Alexander

3 years ago

What happens when what’s arguably the most luxurious hotel in Lake Como opens a sister property? Expectations will be high for sure. Villa Passalacqua is the sibling of the famed Grand Hotel Tremezzo, and by all accounts so far, she’s the Pippa to Kate Middleton. Here’s a look at the buzziest opening this year on the Lake.

Overview

Once a historic private villa built in 1787 by the Odescalchi family of Como, Villa Passalacqua isn’t exactly the new kid on the block. After bouncing between various ownerships for the past several decades, the property landed in the hands of Valentina De Santis and her family. De Santis calls opening the second property “the biggest project of my life so far”, and we can see why.

When the hoteliers behind the famed Grand Hotel Tremezzo acquired this estate, they saw it as a way to return the villa back to its Italian heritage. In fact, they saw it as “a sacred honor”, and it shows. Each detail at Passalacqua acts as a smaller part of a harmonious collection, paying true homage to the landscape it sits on.

Atmosphere

Passalacqua’s goal is to make you feel as if you’ve come home. That is, if your home was a 235 year old villa set on Lake Como. The atmosphere centers comfortability at its most elevated state, or as the Italians call it, the lost art of “villeggiatura”. Here, guests can “shed the literal and figurative corsets of everyday life” and embrace the calming beauty of the lakeside estate.

Despite this philosophy, there’s no shortage of ways to spend your time at the Villa. Stroll around the seven acre property and you’ll find an abundance of thoughtful foliage. Six terraced gardens overlook the lake, while the Winter Garden looks across the panoramic swimming pool. Take in a view of the estate’s ancient olive grove while exercising in the al fresco gym, or play a match at the lakeside clay tennis court.

While Lake Como is there for your viewing pleasure, the team at Passalacqua also encourages guests to get their feet wet. A private pier houses two vintage boats, and a tunnel under the lakeside road provides access to the estate’s private marina. Don’t feel like walking back to your room? Don’t worry- the hotel shuttles guests up and down the property in a vintage Fiat convertible.

The art of doing nothing finds its peak in Passalacqua’s spa. Unique treatments draw inspiration from the lake, while relaxing architecture merges with the estate’s rich history. A secret staircase (yes, you read that right) leads spa-goers to a thermal area housed in 18th century tunnels. If that’s not impressive enough, the underground relaxation room also features a cave-turned-sauna and steam room.

Rooms

The 24 suite hotel has three distinctive residences to choose from when booking a room, each offering a unique stay. If you’re looking for a room that celebrates both history and convenience, consider booking one of the 12 suites in The Villa, located in the property’s main building. Here you can enjoy Italian baroque design, as well as the music room where Vincenzo Bellini composed his operas in. If a view of the water sounds more appealing, opt for one of the Casa al Lago’s lakefront suits, equipped with its own private garden. Lastly, within the ancient stables resides the cozy and historical Plus Palazz, adorned with 200 year old wood beams and jewel-toned accents.

Dining

Here, dining is a ritual, and the relationships are just as important as the food. Guests are invited to collaborate with the chefs on not only their desired menu, but the location of the meal. Essentially, at the Villa, you’re the main character. Itching for a true Italian pasta making session? What about a lakeside picnic? Whatever your dining fantasy may be, the culinary team is ready to make it happen.

At the heart of each Passalacqua meal is the essence of authentic Italian home cooking, focusing on seasonal ingredients. Chef Elio Sironi, the former head chef of Bulgari Hotels, has designed a collection of rotating menus, highlighting seasonal produce often harvested from the property’s own garden.

FAQ’s:

Q: When are the check-in and check-out times?

A: Check-in is at 3 PM., and check-out is at noon.

Q: What amenities are included?

A: Guests at Passalacqua have full access to all facilities on the property. This includes the state of the art gym, spa, pool, gardens, private pier, and more. Daily complimentary breakfast is also included.