Mandarin Oriental Lago di Como – Lake Como, Italy

Three hours drive away from Lake Garda you’ll find another hidden gem and Italy’s third largest lake; Lake Como. A beautiful place attracted by fashion designers, celebrities, businessmen and women and tourists from around the world. The lake is not only known for their attractive villas and gardens but it’s also known for being a popular retreat for people since Roman times. It’s a top romantic travel destination and a great spot for photography.

For our last night in the land of pasta and pizza, my travel partner and I got to stay at Mandarin Oriental Lago di Como (which was named CastaDiva Resort & SPA back in 2016). A leading luxury hotel housed in a 18th Century Villa that once was the residence of the opera singer Giuditta Pasta.

We arrived safely in Blevio sometime between 2 or 3 pm in the afternoon. Driving along the lake was an experience itself because of the narrow roads, steep mountains and tunnels. We accidentally drove past the resort as the place was quite hidden despite the large port.

We parked the Mercedes in front of the main entrance. As we got out of the car a bellboy and a valet kindly helped us with our suitcases and personal belongings. “Welcome to CastaDiva Resort.” I heard someone say the moment I stepped my foot on the Blevio-land. Seconds later an elegantly dressed woman walks out the entrance and greeted us with a warm welcome. From the moment she introduced herself to us, Barbra made us feel like we’ve been welcomed home.

Walking towards the front desk area give me so many impressions. Majestic theme and bright colors were the first words that came into my mind. This is just the reception area Steph, I thought to myself. I wonder how the other rooms of this historical villa looks like. After checking in and getting our keycards, we got introduced to Lisa and Katia, two lovely ladies who took us on a private tour around the resort. Did they just read my mind? I was just wondering moments ago about the villa and here they were offering us a tour. Can this be any better?

I was so fascinated and focused on taking pictures while we walked into the historical rooms. I had so many questions in my head and before I even had the chance to ask them, Lisa already gave me the answers. She was a great story teller. The resort is quite small and intimate allowing us guests to get an authentic experience of the Italian hospitality.

Mandarin Oriental Lago di Como offers 73 suites and rooms, and two private villas. The majority of them features an overlooking view of one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. With its magical sceneries and unregulated beauty no wonder why I kept thinking to myself, is this real or am I dreaming? The resort also features free parking, a spa center, a restaurant that serves fresh homemade pasta, and a variety of regional specialties from Lombardy and classic Italian dishes. A bar, a well-equipped gym and a heated (floating) outdoor and indoor swimming pool.