Unveiling the Untold Secrets of the Unparalleled Luxury Hotel Experience

Sign up for CNN Travel's Unlocking Italy newsletter to receive insider information on Italy's most popular destinations and hidden gems for your perfect trip. Additionally, get inspired before your journey with Stanley Tucci's movie recommendations, reading lists, and delightful recipes. The magnificent "best hotel in the world" was constructed by a pope and frequently patronized by a renowned Italian opera composer. Renowned historical figures such as Napoleon Bonaparte and Winston Churchill have graced the premises with their presence. It is safe to say that Passalacqua was always destined for greatness.

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In London on 19 September, during the inaugural Worlds 50 Best Hotels event, the hotel located on Lake Como was awarded the top position. A panel of industry experts, known as the judges, selected this 24-suite family-owned property over a hotel operated by a major brand.

Among the numerous luxury hotels worldwide, Passalacqua stands out as a unique and exceptional establishment. Merely categorizing it as a hotel seems inadequate, as it offers much more. It immerses visitors in a different era and location, providing an extraordinary and indulgent journey.

Silvio Vettorello, the general manager, attributes the victory to three distinct factors. "Meraviglia [amazement]: that feeling of wonder you experience in a place that fulfills all your expectations and still manages to astonish you. Storia [history]: the rich history of an 18th-century mansion that, despite echoing a bygone era, effortlessly makes you feel at home. And famiglia [family] - in every sense, but especially the team of 100 incredible individuals who go above and beyond every day to create magic for our guests, ensuring that every dream, both theirs and ours, comes true."

How to build a world-class hotel

Passalacqua saw regular visits from composer Vincenzo Bellini.

Passalacqua officially inaugurated in 2022 following a meticulous three-year refurbishment. Boasting a long-standing legacy in the realm of upscale hospitality, the De Santis family, proprietors of the renowned Grand Hotel Tremezzo on Lake Como, spearheaded this project. Entrusting their 41-year-old daughter, Valentina De Santis, with the task of unveiling the property, the company's CEO played a crucial role in restoring it to its former splendor.

Every single detail holds a special place in her heart. From the valuable marbles sourced from Carrara and Verona to the captivating chandeliers crafted by Muranos Barovier & Toso (including the awe-inspiring one hanging in the music room), not to mention the Venetian mirrors and the luxurious Beltrami wood fiber bed linens.

The meticulously maintained seven-acre lake-facing terraced gardens provide a serene atmosphere with the soothing sound of water fountains. Guests can enjoy their time here, sipping beverages, practicing yoga, or lounging by the pool, adorned in vibrant vintage prints from the renowned Milanese brand, La Double J.

De Santis says, "Passalacqua has a storied and rich history and is a one of a kind experience that evokes another time."

It holds many a secret, too.

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"As you pass through the front gates, you enter a different world - one you may not want to leave," she says.

What its like to be there

Nestled in a serene and secluded location, just a stone's throw away from the vibrant village of Moltrasio, this enchanting villa offers a perfect blend of tranquility and convenience. As you open the doors and meander through the labyrinthine passages, you are greeted with breathtaking rooms that offer centuries-old vistas of Lake Como. The richly adorned ceilings captivate with ethereal paintings featuring celestial deities observing from above. However, what truly captures the imagination are the hidden underground tunnels, lined with ancient stones, that guide you from the villa to the shimmering lake. Each step along these mysterious corridors hints at a world of intrigue and fascination.

The rooms whisk you back to an earlier time.

Standing amidst the grandeur of the gardens, gazing at the serene lake, it is effortless to envision the Moltrasio of a bygone era. This sentiment is particularly heightened after sunset, when the gleaming garden lights illuminate the surroundings. The acquisition of the villa by Count Passalacqua, a prominent member of the local nobility, in 1787 marked a turning point in its history. The sight of carriages arriving and departing, accompanied by enchanting concerts that resonated late into the night, transformed the villa into a lavish playground for the aristocracy. Recognizing the inherent allure and almost enchanting quality of these grounds, the De Santis family shared a comparable appreciation with the count.

Vincenzo Bellini, a frequent guest at the villa, wrote his opera "La Sonnambula" (The Sleepwalker) in 1837. The opera tells a distressing tale of unreciprocated desires and sleepwalking episodes that occurred during his stay. The ambiance of the ancient walls leaves one pondering about what transpired within them. The weight of history is palpable, and on a breezy day, one can almost hear echoes of Bellini's melodies. Passalacqua possesses a captivating charm that stimulates contemplation and transports you to a different era.

The hotel aims to create an immersive experience for guests from the moment they check in until they check out. The concierge can arrange unique local activities. Beautiful hand-cut bouquets of flowers magically appear throughout the hotel. Guests have the opportunity to indulge in meditation and massages. Additionally, the culinary program, led by renowned chef Alessandro Rinaldi, highlights Italian classics. The kitchen is also open for guests to enjoy snacks and participate in baking or cooking activities. The hotel offers many other exciting features as well.

De Santis can speak about the villa's splendors extensively. While she assures that every hour of the day here is memorable, she acknowledges that nothing surpasses the early morning.

"It's the time of day when breakfast is served, reminiscent of a grand Italian countryside estate during summertime. The delightful aroma of coffee greets you as you step into the kitchen, blending with the intoxicating fragrance of a freshly baked marmalade crostata [resembling an oversized jam tart].

The lakeside villa was meticulously renovated.

Ruben Ortiz

And what would a hotel be without its guests? Vettorello mentions that their favorite aspect of their stay is the feeling of villeggiatura. This Italian term goes beyond simply referring to a vacation in a rural setting, as it embodies the essence of idyllic escapism and the timeless practice of seeking solace away from the chaos of everyday life in a serene environment. Imagine the world of "Bridgerton" or a Jane Austen novel, but set in Italy.

Rather than the Scottish Highlands or the Yorkshire Moors, you will find yourself amidst the beauty of Lake Como and its sophisticated gardens. Instead of a horse-drawn carriage, vintage orange Italian Jeeps provide a unique mode of transportation. Tea is replaced by a refreshing Campari soda or a negroni sbagliato. And the traditional scones and jam are substituted with the delightful abundance of the Italian aperitivo.

It is a uniquely Italian sensation - the joy of indulging in time away, immersing oneself in nature without any guilt. Think of it as la dolce vita, but even better! The team at Passalacqua has truly excelled in reviving this age-old and lavish practice.

While Passalacqua did not coin the term villeggiatura, every aspect of their establishment embodies it - a charming 18th century villa transformed into a flawless luxury hotel, where guests can truly unwind and leave their worries behind.

Naturally, all of these extravagant amenities come at a cost. Prices for rooms without a lakeside viewpoint commence at 1,300 euros ($1,381) per night, while those with a view start at 1,700 euros ($1,806) during the lowest season in November. For the upcoming summer, rates will increase to 2,300 euros ($2,443) for a standard room without a lake view, and 3,200 euros ($3,400) for the most affordable lake-view room. Suites are available starting at approximately $5,000 per night. Fortunately, breakfast is included in the listed prices.

When asked what sets this place apart from any other location in the world, Valentina responds, "It is a realm of marvels crafted from the depths of the heart."

Maria Pasquale, a Rome-based food and travel journalist of Italian-Australian descent, has garnered multiple awards for her exceptional work. Her literary contributions include the renowned books "I Heart Rome," "How to be Italian," and "The Eternal City: Recipes & Stories from Rome." Stay updated on her captivating adventures by following her on Instagram @heartrome.