Villa Lario – One of the best hotels in Lake Como.

Accessed sharply from Como’s one road, this place feels definitively private, set apart, very much on its own picturesque high pinnacle hanging over the water. Spread out on a hillside more than 160ft above the lake, offering jaw-dropping vistas.

From the main road a panoramic lift descends to the main villa, which is flanked by a leafy terraced garden with infinity pool with sunbeds looking out over the water and hills. From here a second lift goes down to the lakefront garden from where it’s possible to stroll into the tiny village of Pognana Lario – no tourists here, just the occasional resident (or dog) strolling the front.

And last but not least, it has something no other five-star hotel around here can quite claim: a very secluded pontoon that guests can swim off directly, bothered by nothing but the occasional boat dropping somebody off for lunch.

Villa Lario consists of 18 suites up to 36 guests which gives a real intimate, boutique hotel feeling. There are four different styles – some to suit couples on a romantic break, others for families with a nanny. The walls have a nude color with hand-painted frescoes, monochrome prints stand along the headboard , and natural light floods in through the balcony doors, where on a bright evening, reflections from the water dance on the floor.

All suites have kitchenettes with kettles, fridges, hobs and Nespresso machines. You won’t find a TV – the idea is for guests to switch off that nothing will distract you from the incredible views outside. Some have small terraces with sun loungers. Set on two levels, the Garden Suite is the most secluded of all, tucked away in the villa’s greenery by the lake.

In the open-plan kitchen of the restaurant, head chef Michele Tamburrino prepares superb dishes that change with the seasons from regions throughout Italy: agnolotti (pasta pockets) filled with sausage, mandilli (freshly boiled lasagne sheets) with pesto sauce from Liguria, Tuscan spelt and bean soup, and endives from Alessandria in nearby Piedmont for instance. All to give the guests the opportunity to experience some of the country’s regional dishes.

All very delicious, homemade cooking served in an elegant and classic way. The homemade bread and focaccia is excellent too. At breakfast there are freshly squeezed juices and smoothies to take, while freshly baked croissants and pastries are served at each table. Hot dishes are made to order while you enjoy the magnificent view over the lake.