Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni

The shoreline of Italy’s Lake Como is dotted with splendid hotels and imposing villas that offer absolutely first-rate everything. Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni sits comfortably at the head of this five-star class. Located in the upscale town of Bellagio at the tip of the promontory where the legendary lake forks, Villa Serbelloni offers flawless luxury that’s been carefully refined since the hotel’s transition from a palatial residence in 1873.

Without putting too fine a point on it, the rich Neoclassical history of the place informs every detail. The colorful interplay of the terracotta rooftops and canary yellow exterior provides an incredibly picturesque contrast with the surrounding greenery, especially if one approaches via boat. Inside, the public spaces are opulent — footsteps echo on marble staircases, chandeliers dangle from impossibly high ceilings — but this is no gaudy imitation. It’s no accident that the Bellagio in Vegas is named for the Villa Serbelloni’s lakeside locale.

The 85 guest rooms vary in size from spacious to cavernous, and the motif is heavy on undiluted Neo-classical elements, gilded mirrors and ornate ceiling frescoes. Period furniture abounds, with nary a sleek modern intruder to be found. Lush, heavy curtains open to reveal commanding views of Lake Como.

The hotel’s two restaurants, Mistral and La Goletta, are helmed by Michelin-starred chef Ettore Bocchia, Italy’s leading light among molecular gastronomists. For active relaxation, the expansive grounds of the villa contain tennis courts, a gym, and a lakeside pool. The spa is suitably comprehensive, with an extensive menu of indulgences and a few exotic treatments to impress even the most jaded wellness enthusiast.