Hotel Villa Flori is situated in one of the most panoramic spots on the western branch of Lake Como, midway between the jet-set destination of Cernobbio and the vibrant city of Como, just a few minutes by car from the Como Nord exit on the A9 autostrada.
Directly overlooking the lake, Villa Flori was built in the 19th century as the private residence of the nobleman Marchese Raimondi, and was the site of his daughter’s short-lived marriage to the hero of Italian unification, General Giuseppe Garibaldi, in 1860. The villa was transformed into a hotel in 1958, then partially modernized in 1992. Now, having just recently undergone a complete refitting and restyling, Hotel Villa Flori stands proudly and elegantly as an absolutely unique destination on the international hospitality scene.
During the course of the intensive restructuring, which took two years to complete, we strove to maintain all the charm of the original 19th-century atmosphere, meticulously restoring the delicate stucco work and floral frescoes, the rich parquet floors and antique furnishings. But this respect for tradition did not get in the way of an equally careful attention to the demands of contemporary comfort.
The physical plant is completely new, with special attention to energy savings and low emissions. The subdivision of the spaces, while respecting the original structure, has opened up new panoramic views that turn a simple stroll through the villa into a series of continuous visual surprises. Moreover, the conversion of the attic floor made it possible to create a restful and secluded spa and fitness area.
All the rooms look out onto Lake Como, whether from a terrace or a balcony, each providing fabulous views of one of the world’s most enchanting and best-known vistas. Even the common areas are designed to open toward the outside and the rich vegetation of the garden, so that every moment of your stay offers the possibility of a magical reflection, an unexpected play of light, the rare feeling of profound peace that comes from contact with nature’s beauty. All of this, of course, is accompanied by attentive and discreet service from our professional staff, like a dream home away from home.
A private dock allows access from the water to the Hotel and the Ristorante Raimondi. It is also the departure point for boat trips around the lake, which guests can enjoy on request.
The Hall of Hotel Villa Flori welcomes guests with generous windows that open onto the lake. The view is nothing short of spectacular, encompassing Torno and its distinctive bell tower, Blevio, Monte Brunate, the cupola of Como’s magnificent cathedral and, further off in the distance, the tower of the 12th-century Baradello Castle.
While one might not expect to find a chapel in a luxury hotel, it has been conserved as testimony of the Villa’s venerable history, and offers guests of every spiritual persuasion a beautiful setting for quiet meditation. The chapel is virtually unaltered, preserving its original marble altar and gilded wall decorations.
Originally designated for musical training and performances, this gracious room is now reserved for breakfast – an elegant, luminous space that invites guests to begin their day in direct contact with the natural beauty of Lake Como.