Experience the splendour and the magic of Villa d'Este. Hailed as one of the best hotels in the world, this famous resort destination has been widely praised for its beautiful gardens, exquisite cuisine, gala celebrations, impeccable décor and extraordinary hospitality.
Set on the banks of one of the most romantic lakes in the world and just north of Milan, Villa d'Este was built in 1568 as the summer residence of Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio. The property comprises 25 acres of gardens, whose statues and landscape have been photographed for centuries. The favourite playground of the English queen Caroline and aristocrats, it was transformed into a luxury hotel in 1873.
The Veranda Restaurant, the Grill, the Platano, the Sundeck Bar, the Canova Bar, the Terrace Bar and the d'Este Club are dining options available throughout the day and the evening.
The Beauty Center is the perfect oasis to replenish mind, body and soul. It offers a complete list of facial and body treatments whose aim ranges from pure relaxation to age-defying services. Manicures and Pedicures are also on the menu. Therapists will consult with you to create a tailored program that meets your specific beauty goals. There is also a Sauna and Turkish Bath.
The fitness center has modern equipment is complete with televisions to entertain you as you exercise. Physical trainers are available upon request.
Three swimming pools are available, all heated. A unique pool floats on the lake, with a built-in Jacuzzi, an indoor pool is located in the Sporting Club building and the kid's pool, outdoor, near the floating pool and with a sandy beach.
A beautiful 18-hole golf course designed by Peter Gannon winds its way through chestnut, ash and pine trees sheltering golfers even from the intense August heat. Villa d'Este is considered one of the most challenging and difficult par 69's in Europe, even though it is the site of several amateur competitions each year.
Sport
You cannot miss the 0.3mile jogging trail that winds through the park of Villa d'Este. Along the way you will find 15 stopping places where a sign suggests some exercises. The tennis center is located in the park, offering 8 courts open from 8am to 8pm daily. Tennis pros are available for play or instruction and rackets are available for rental. Lake Como is the right place to practice water-skiing. You can waterski at Villa d'Este daily from 11am to 6pm. The wind by the lake allows you to practice sailing, a very popular sport. Sailboats are available for rental daily from 9am to 7pm. Lake Como is a favourite destination of windsurfers, both professionals and amateurs; fine weather and a favourable wind make practice of this sport easy. Windsurfs are available for rental from 9am to 7pm. Canoeing is the perfect sport to be performed on the Lake, it is a wonderful way to appreciate the magnificent landscape and highly rewarding in the mild climate. Canoeing can be practiced daily from 9am to 7pm. The squash court is open daily from 7am to 8pm. There are also ten electronic golf courses, open daily from 8am to 8pm. Located near the main entrance of Villa d'Este, on the putting green one can train for major golf competitions or just become more familiar with the rules of this sport. Available daily from 8am to 8pm.