Every May, the great and the good descend on Villa d’Este, crowding out the lawns and gardens, waiting for tables at the restaurants and bar, and jumping at the chance to rest their legs at any terrace table. Even as one of the most glamorous destinations on the shores of Lake Como, the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este is a rareified environment where the beautiful people like to go.

As wonderful as it is to watch this world go by, as owners of rare cars are courted by dealers whispering them sweet nothings, eager for their business, visiting Villa d’Este at any other time of the year is by far the more enjoyable way to appreciate the surroundings of this five-star hotel.

Formerly the summer residence of the Cardinal of Como, in the sixteenth-century, it is a lakeside haven from the hustle and bustle of the roads around Como. Order an Aperol Spritz from the Canova Bar; take a seat on the sun deck and watch the beautiful people (well, mostly beautiful) lazing in the sunshine by the floating pontoon pool; and guess which famous face might be arriving on the next Riva Aquarama launch.

For the price of a cocktail, you too can live the good life, before continuing on your journey around the Italian Lakes.

Words James Mills Twitter | Instagram
Photography Villa d’Este and Adam Jaime / Unsplash

Roadbook

• Class: Hotel

• Name: Villa d’Este

• Route: Lake Como

• Country: Italy

• Find out more