Visually stunning.
Como is known for its beauty, famous residents and steep, green hills framing the lake, surrounded by pastel villages and villas nestled along the coastline. To the north, you have the Alps forming a dramatic backdrop.
It's also known for its painfully tiny, dated hotel rooms with excruciating price tags and lack of parking. After searching for years, we found the perfect hotel, with 1000-square-foot meters with balconies, gourmet kitchens, and gated parking, located right on the water with a private beach, boat rentals, and water sports. Quite frankly, it's the only place we stay now around Como. Did I mention our room has more than 8 large windows? Our friends stayed across the lake 20 minutes away at the famous resort, and their room was the size of just of our bedrooms and three times more expensive. Sometimes you just get it right.
Here's the thing: where you stay impacts your trip and the feel of your entire experience, shaping your memory for a lifetime. Lake Como is a place you really want to feel a part of this adventure for more than a decade, I was overjoyed to discover this hideaway exists.
We sat gazing a the lake at sunset, drinking the perfect espresso martini on the terrace of their brand-new lounge and bar. I'm using words like gazing and dreamscape. Como has that effect on you.
Calming.
It's a kind of luxury that lets you relax. A rare find in this area. We were fortunate enough to visit in mid-May, and I highly recommended shoulder seasons. You get the sun and warmth, and a chance to actually book a room outside of the sold-out summer season. Book early if you can.
A Little Background
Domus Plinii is a historic residence, built in 1792, that directly overlooks Lake Como in the village of Faggeto Lario. Surrounded by centuries-old trees in a park of more then 1000 square meters, they even have an infinity pool overlooking the lake.
They offer 11 suites, which feel remarkably private, each with a unique style and design, completely redesigned with calming colors, shades, and patterns, offering an upscale, warm, and welcoming enviroment.
Getting Around
It was a perfect base for us to explore Bellagio, Menaggio, and other villages and lakes. Como Town is located 15 minutes away, and a gorgeous 30-minutes scenic drive takes you to Bellagio, or take a private boat directly from the dock.
Private Beach, Boat Rental, And Water Sports
Domus Plinii is one of the only hotels to offer exclusive access to one of the rare beaches surrounding Lake Como. It is equipped with loungers and every imaginable watersport at the Water Experience Center (WEC), like SUP, kayaking, jet skies, wakesurfing, wakeboarding, waterskiing and kneeboarding.
We loved not having to drive or struggle with parking to locate a private boat rental. You simply walk right outside and everything you need is seconds away. The boats don't require a license, allowing everyone to experience the lake with just your family. The best way to experience Lake Como is from the water, so the first day we took our own boat out and the following day hired a private boat tour/drive at the WEC directly in front of the villa.
Yes, There Is More
Guests can request a private driver service for transfers from the main airports, stations, and other points of interest. Fast Wi-Fi, smart TV, daily cleaning service, breakfast, and video-surveilled private parking are complimentary
It makes it hard to go back to large, dated resorts after experiencing the intimacy of this villa hotel.
The Domus Plinii Boutique Resort is our top pick for accommodation around any of the lakes. It envelops you in a faraway romance, the way only Italy can, where the world feels far, far away.
