Il Sereno, nestled on the tranquil shores of Lake Como’s southeastern border in the enchanting town of Torno, has been a breath of fresh air in contrast to the region’s traditional hotels ever since it welcomed its first guests seven years ago.
This season, the establishment introduced the Darsena Lago Suite, which offers the most immersive experience of Lake Como’s beauty. As Luis Contreras, the owner of Il Sereno, puts it, “The best way to truly savor the allure of Lake Como is from its crystal waters.” This unique suite, the largest among the hotel’s 40 rooms, stretches across 186 square meters, encompassing a luxurious master bedroom, two lavish bathrooms, a dining area, a well-stocked bar, and a capacious terrace with direct access to the serene lake.
Perched atop a historic stone boathouse, known as a Darsena, with the majestic Italian Alps as its backdrop, this hotel marked a pioneering architectural venture in the area after several decades. The visionary behind this masterpiece is the Spanish architect and designer, Patricia Urquiola, who left her creative mark on everything, from the building’s structure and interior design to the staff uniforms and the hotel’s fleet of boats.
From this vantage point, guests can relish scorching summer days by lounging on their private daybed, dipping into the refreshing waters, or, as part of the suite’s amenities, embark on a delightful journey aboard one of the hotel’s sleek Riva yachts. These scenic cruises offer panoramic views of charming villages and grand neoclassical villas nestled on the lush, steep hillsides surrounding the lake.
After a day of exploration and visits to idyllic swimming spots like the enchanting Civera Bridge, from which locals take exhilarating dives, the ‘Swim Up Suite,’ as it is affectionately known, becomes the ultimate sanctuary to retreat to. Much like the rest of the hotel, natural materials like warm walnut wood, terrazzo floors, and elegant travertine and marble accents form the foundation. These elements are adorned with bespoke touches, such as the upholstered bed headboard, featuring a water-inspired design in serene shades of gray. The furnishings, including pieces from Urquiola’s personal collection, sourced from renowned Italian brands like Cassina, Moroso, B&B Italia, Molteni & C, and Flos, are awash in shades of green and light blue, echoing the mesmerizing hues of the lake just outside.
With the hotel’s new in-room breakfast service, where a delectable array of dishes, from syrup-drizzled waffles to eggs benedict, are served on an exquisite custom trolley designed by Urquiola, you may find it hard to leave the suite. However, if you can tear yourself away, the rest of the hotel promises a design-infused experience.
Climb the central floating walnut staircase to reach the Lobby Bar and terrace, the prime spot for witnessing the sun’s enchanting descent. Here, you can enjoy aperitifs before descending to the Michelin-starred restaurant, nestled within the original stone boathouse, where Chef Raffaele Lenzi crafts an elevated menu of Italian delicacies, including the mouthwatering Iberico plum with kimchi and broccoli cream, or the tantalizing spaghetti with cashew butter, tonka bean, and perilla vinegar.
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Il Sereno’s ‘Swim Up Suite’ is Lake Como’s newest lake-side neighbour, the perfect spot to admire the Italian beauty…