12 Lake Como hotels to soak up the glamour of Italy's lakes

Italy’s gloriously elegant lakes are a dream holiday destination for many. Picture yourself wandering along the cobbled streets of the crystal clear Lake Garda, doing a spot of sightseeing on Lake Maggiore, or sipping prosecco on a deck overlooking the glittering Lake Orta.

BEST LAKE COMO HOTELS

For an Italian holiday with an extra special touch of dolce vita glamour, check into a Lake Como hotel to soak up the glamour of this beautiful region.

One of the most picturesque of Italy's lakes, Lake Como is home to chic restaurants and bars dotting its shores. It's been known as the stomping ground of aristocrats, artists and celebrities for centuries, and boasts an air of sophisticated glamour.

This swanky charm draws all types of tourists, but keen walkers will feel especially at home here amongst the landscapes, with mountain hikes that reward you with stunning panoramas.

If you're looking for a slower-paced stay, lakeside strolls will take you between romantic Italian villages with sloping streets and pretty plazas. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time to stop in one of the many local restaurants serving mouthwateringly flavoursome fish, caught straight from the lake.

There are a number of wonderful Lake Como hotels to choose from, many with gorgeous decks, terraces and balconies where you can sit back and appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you.

To help you plan your trip, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite Lake Como hotels for your next Italian escape.

For top-class sophistication and seclusion, you'll want to check out Mandarin Oriental's first Italian hotel in Blevio, on the shore of Lake Como.

Nestled in a verdant botanical park, it has nine separate 19th century villas, where the exquisite décor shows a combination of Italian and Chinese influences.

You'll find top-class food in the beautiful setting of top-notch restaurant L˜ARIA, the CO.MO Bar & Bistrot and the Pool Bar next to the hotel’s pool which floats on the surface of the lake.

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Casa sull'Albero is a minimalist design hotel set on a hillside in its own peaceful grounds.

This is definitely the place to stay if your dream is a stylish hotel where you can truly appreciate the magnificence of the surrounding landscapes.

Many of the rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing you to feel in harmony with the nature of Lake Como.

The grounds outside are equally impressive. The hotel is in the ancient town of Malgrate and is surrounded by a woodland park filled with centuries-old trees and with an open-air swimming pool.

Relax in the hotel's stunning gardens and appreciate the sounds of the birds chirping overhead while you enjoy views of the lake.

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If you're looking for true lakeside tranquillity, Casa Santo Stefano in the hills near Cernobbio offers a retreat where you can avoid the tourist hordes.

With only five rooms at this adults-only boutique guesthouse, you'll largely have the whole villa to yourself.

There's an inviting swimming pool on the terrace, surrounded by lush greenery and offering unforgettable views of the town of Como, and you'll be within within walking distance of the shore.

The quiet Lake Como hotel is a sophisticated retreat for solos, couples or small groups of friends looking for privacy, peace and quiet, and jaw-dropping views.

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Set in two acres of private gardens on Lake Como's shoreline, the exclusive Villa Làrio is a wonderfully grand hotel, with suites set in four different historical buildings.

Perhaps the most impressive is the 19th century classical villa which houses seven suites, a penthouse and an elegant terrace.

The hotel also has a heavenly infinity pool where you can sip a cocktail or two as you watch the sunset across the lake.

The restaurant is excellent too, serving delectable Italian dishes prepared with local seasonal produce. This is the ideal lake retreat for couples seeking a sophisticated spot with a feeling of seclusion.

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Filario was one of Lake Como's very first boutique design hotels, and remains one of the best destinations for modern, youthful luxury.

Lovers of modern architecture will feel at home here, with sleek interiors featuring uncluttered glass and stone setting this hotel apart from the more opulent, traditional hotels on Como's shores.

The hotel has an intimate feel, making it perfect for couples seeking a romantic break, but there are also 20 self-catering apartments that make a great base for families exploring the lake.

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Borgo Le Terrazze is a slick aparthotel nestled on a hillside just south of Bellagio, known as the 'pearl of Lake Como'.

The hotel offers incredible vistas of deep blue waters hemmed in by snow-capped mountains. There are studios, suites and self-catering apartments here, with interiors decorated with delightful dusty pinks, yellows and soft shades of purple.

The location is excellent - as well being close to Bellagio, with its winding lanes of boutique shops and excellent restaurants, you're only a short boat ride away from Varenna and Menaggio.

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If you're looking for a classic lakeside stay on Lake Como, where Italian glamour greets you around every corner, Grand Hotel Tremezzo might be just the place.

This gloriously luxurious palazzo hotel with plush interiors is one of the most fashionable places to stay on the lake. Here you'll find a floating swimming pool, five restaurants and bars, an outstanding spa, and a private beach where you can sip on Aperol spritz as the sunset paints the lake dusky pink.

While the building is steeped in history and tradition, this family-owned hotel is far from stuffy. You can enjoy ultimate Italian sophistication here, while also feeling totally relaxed in the laidback atmosphere.

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