Grand Hotel Victoria

The Grand Hotel Victoria, like many of Lake Como’s luxury hotels, begins with neoclassical architecture, with a touch of the Liberty style that was current at its 19th-century founding, as well as an air of Old Hollywood glamour. But for all its historical influences, this is no museum piece: today’s Victoria is impressively renovated, and its interiors show evidence of a contemporary designer’s attentions, from the color work to the modern luxury furnishings and the subtle high-tech comforts.

Rooms and suites are generously sized and full of top-flight comforts; the best ones have views out onto the lake from their bedrooms or private terraces. Meanwhile the restaurants include the fine-dining Gourmet 1827 and the more casual Lago, while two bars, Bar Manzoni and Bar Griso, serve expert cocktails and well-selected wines from all over Italy and beyond.

The Victoria’s hometown of Menaggio is in one of Lake Como’s quieter stretches, facing directly across the water to Bellagio, and all the lakeside towns are easy enough to reach. It just means a bit more peace and tranquility for Victoria guests, who may prefer a day in the stunning ERRE spa, or a picnic on a boat in the middle of the lake.