Hotel Royal Victoria, by R Collection Hotels, nestled in the charming village of Varenna, delights guests with its unparalleled location offering breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The hotel's setting provides excellent access to local attractions, making it a convenient base for exploration. Guests are consistently impressed by the remarkable views, especially those witnessed from the balconies and restaurant, underscoring the hotel’s allure as a serene retreat.
Breakfast at the hotel is frequently highlighted as a standout experience, with guests praising the extensive and diverse offerings. It is celebrated for both quality and variety, with the stunning views from the breakfast area adding a magical touch. The dining experiences extend beyond breakfast, with the hotel’s fine dining, particularly at the Visteria, receiving acclaim for its excellent food and drinks. Although some guests find the gourmet restaurant slightly overpriced, the overall consensus remains positive.
The rooms at Hotel Royal Victoria are commended for their breathtaking lake views, especially from balconied accommodations. Guests enjoy the spaciousness and elegance of the junior suites and lake-view rooms, appreciating the blend of classic decor with modern comforts. While a few guests mentioned smaller bathrooms and more generic decor than expected, cleanliness and comfort are consistently praised.
The hotel staff are integral to the guests' positive experience, noted for their friendliness, attentiveness, and professionalism. Their welcoming nature significantly contributes to the hotel's charm and appeal, with individuals like Elena receiving special mentions for exceptional service.
The pool area is another celebrated feature, offering a tranquil space with beautiful views of the lake, complemented by a poolside bar and restaurant. Despite occasional mentions of the water being cold, the pool's serene atmosphere is well-regarded, enhancing the overall relaxing experience at the hotel. Overall, Hotel Royal Victoria, by R Collection Hotels, offers a memorable stay characterized by exceptional views, delightful dining, comfortable accommodations, and outstanding service.
Casa Olea Hotel serves as a serene and idyllic retreat along the quieter shores of Lake Como, in the charming village of Cremia. The hotel features a stunning property that effortlessly blends modern design with unique, characteristic touches. Guests consistently praise the dreamlike and peaceful location with direct access to tranquil lake waters, making it an exceptional base for exploring the picturesque area, including nearby villages like Menaggio. Despite its secluded setting, the hotel remains highly accessible with convenient underground parking and close proximity to essential amenities and scenic lakeside walks.
The breakfast experience at Casa Olea is a standout, often highlighted for its exceptional quality and personalized, made-to-order meals featuring fresh, local and often organic ingredients. Guests rave about the abundance and beautiful presentation, enjoyed in a magnificent vaulted stone room with friendly and attentive staff enhancing the dining experience.
Though Casa Olea lacks its own dining options for lunch or dinner, its advantageous location offers several good restaurants in the vicinity, ensuring guests have convenient and enjoyable alternatives nearby.
Rooms at Casa Olea combine modern design with minimalist aesthetics, frequently praised for their spaciousness, tasteful decor and comfort. High-quality furnishings, luxurious linens and thoughtful touches like fresh fruit and high-quality toiletries contribute to a restful stay. Despite some mentions of smaller room sizes, the design and layout make efficient use of space with stunning views, especially from rooms equipped with balconies and terraces.
Cleanliness is a significant strength at Casa Olea with the establishment earning high marks for its meticulously maintained rooms and common areas, including a spotless pool. The hotel's dedication to hygiene, including daily cleaning services and adherence to Covid regulations, enhances guests' feeling of safety and cleanliness.
The exceptional staff at Casa Olea are consistently celebrated for their warm and welcoming demeanor. Guests frequently commend the team's attentiveness, kindness and accommodating nature with the front desk staff being particularly helpful and knowledgeable.
The spa at Casa Olea provides a luxurious retreat with features such as a whirlpool tub, sauna, emotional showers and an ice waterfall. Although access incurs an additional fee, many guests feel it is justified by the excellent facilities and private booking options. The spa's beautiful garden setting and flexible staff add to its appeal.
The pool offers stunning views of Lake Como, creating a picturesque backdrop for relaxation. Despite the cooler temperatures of the unheated pool, the serene surroundings and comfortable sunbeds within an olive garden make for an inviting experience.
Excellent parking amenities, including secure underground parking with EV charging stations and spacious, free options, provide convenience and peace of mind for guests traveling by car.
Families traveling with children find the hotel ideal with family suites, a playground and a family-friendly atmosphere. The peaceful village setting contributes to a quality family time experience.
The beds at Casa Olea are frequently highlighted for their extreme comfort with high-quality linens, perfect mattresses and cozy duvets ensuring a restful and luxurious stay.
Overall, Casa Olea Hotel stands out for its serene beauty, modern comforts and exceptional service, making it a highly recommended choice for travelers seeking a tranquil and enjoyable retreat along Lake Como.
The Grand Hotel Victoria concept & spa, by R Collection Hotels, is a luxurious 5-star hotel that offers an unbeatable location right in front of Lake Como. Guests rave about the excellent and perfect location, which allows for easy walks to the ferry station and local shops and restaurants. The hotel's amenities and location make it a top choice for a tranquil and convenient stay in Lake Como. The breakfast buffet is described as incredible, excellent and great with fresh and well-chosen fruit. The rooms are mostly positive with beautiful and modern design, spacious and well-appointed and high-tech features like remote-controlled curtains and lighting. The staff is amazing, warm and attentive, providing a very personal touch to their service. The indoor spa is simply incredible and one of the best that many guests have ever seen with proper Finnish Sauna and treatment options. The outdoor pool is described as nice and fantastic, making it appealing to a wide range of travelers. Overall, the Grand Hotel Victoria concept & spa is a must-visit for those looking for a stay that is pure luxe pur sang.