Il Sereno – Lake Como

The Il Sereno hotel is located right on the lakefront, in the picturesque town of Torno on the lake’s southeastern shore. About five miles (8km) south is the pretty town of Como, dotted with boutiques and restaurants. The lake’s major sights are a short boat ride away from the hotel, including the pretty lakeside towns of Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio.

Leading designer Patricia Urquiola is behind the hotel’s sober architecture and contemporary interiors. With bold contemporary furnishings and a heavy use of natural materials including stone, walnut and copper, the vibe is hip and stylish, with a glam yet unpretentious, laidback feel.

The 30 suites are chic and cosy, decorated in shades of grey and nut brown, with hints of blue and green that recall the hues of the surrounding landscape. Large floor-to-ceiling windows draw the eye to the beautiful lake vistas, while the spacious waterfront terraces with cushioned chairs are a great little spot to unwind and soak up the vistas. Furnishings are made with natural materials, including leather and cotton, while stylish travertine bathrooms have freestanding bathtubs and rain showers equipped with Ex Voto Paris toiletries.

Guests may relax poolside with a sundowner or head to the lobby terrace for a drink – looking out onto the lake, it’s a lovely spot for a Martini or a Cinzano. Chef Raffaele Lenzi is behind the creative cuisine at Michelin-starred Berton al Lago, with dishes overseen by Chef Andrea Berton. Italian favourites draw inspiration from subtle Neapolitan influences (use of buffalo mozzarella, veal tripe and Genovese ragù), while the Contrasti set menu draws on oriental flavours, with seaweed, wasabi and yuzu featuring occasionally.

At breakfast, a selection of breads and pastries are brought to your table (there’s no buffet), with fruits, cereal, yogurt, cheese, cold cuts and a choice of eggs to order à la carte.

There’s a heated infinity pool with underwater music and mood lighting on the lakeshore and a small sandy beach (there are SUP paddle boards for rent). The spa, located in a stone-clad boathouse, has a whirlpool tub, gym, sauna, steam room and three rooms for beauty treatments, massages and Valmont facials.

There are two all-wood Riva motor boats (which can be rented with or without a driver) to tour around the lake, along with a larger water limousine. A young team of staff offer professional and efficient service, with a relaxed and personal touch. Plenty of activities, including fishing trips, wine tasting and cooking classes, can be organised.