Relais Villa Vittoria

Before I begin, I want to be clear: I am not the type to leave negative reviews. In fact, I usually take the time only to share positive feedback and highlight what businesses are doing well. Unfortunately, in this case, I feel compelled to offer a constructive review, because our experience at Relais Villa Vittoria in Lake Como was deeply disappointing—and not at all what we expected from a property rated as a four-star hotel. We arrived before check-in, which we knew was early, but we were told we’d be notified as soon as our room was ready. We decided to wait by the pool with our two children. Unfortunately, the pool area would not serve any lunch or snacks, even though snacks were listed on the menu—they apparently aren’t available until after 6 PM. Our kids were already in their bathing suits, so we couldn’t just head upstairs for lunch due to them being wet and in bathing suits. Eventually, we were told the upstairs restaurant would be closing early due to a wedding, so we rushed up in hopes of grabbing something before it shut down. Only at that point were we told, almost as an afterthought, that our room was ready. The front desk staff, particularly one woman, was neither helpful nor welcoming. It quickly became apparent that this is not a family-friendly hotel. While the property might market itself as luxurious, it seemed clear that guests with children were not exactly embraced. When we got to our room, we found multiple issues. There was broken glass on the floor, a damaged TV stand in the second bedroom, a broken mirror stand, and a telescope that couldn’t be used because its brackets were broken. The air conditioning didn’t work despite our repeated requests to have it checked. We were told it was working—but it clearly wasn’t. Thankfully, we were able to sleep with the windows open due to cooler weather at night. The beds were also quite uncomfortable. The bathroom situation was another disappointment. The “shower” is actually a bathtub with a narrow, glass cylinder partition—making it virtually unusable. My husband, who is 6’4”, couldn’t even fit. On top of that, only one of the showerheads worked; the rest were broken. But perhaps the most frustrating part of our stay was the hotel’s wedding schedule. What we didn’t realize—and what’s not made very clear upfront—is that Relais Villa Vittoria functions more like a wedding venue with hotel rooms than the other way around. There was a wedding every single night during our stay- let’s call it a wedding carousel. Each one took over the entire property, spanning all three levels, and effectively blocked guests from using the grounds. We were essentially confined to our rooms each evening due to the noise, crowds, and exclusivity of the events. And given the hotel’s fairly remote location, there’s nowhere else convenient to go in the evenings. On a more positive note, the servers and hotel staff (outside of the front desk) were very kind, and the food was okay—not amazing, but dec

We booked in advance and had e mail confirmation but they could not find a table for us even after saying they were meeting one for 30 minutes. Very badly trained staff.

The staff at this hotel were incredibly welcoming and helpful throughout our stay. The rooms were immaculate and very comfortable. We also enjoyed the delicious breakfast each morning and loved the convenient location perfect for relaxation

The owner Daniella is such a sweetie! The staff were super cool. It was pissing down rain the entire time we were there and it was still magnificent. Because of the rain we decided on a spa stay and got massages and went in the Turkish bath. Perfect for a rainy day and helped to recharge. Great stay! Would stay here again!

I stayed here in march i had the attic room with speachless views or should say breathtaking. The british gir on reception couldnt do enough for me nothing was to much trouble. Very friendly i would recomend this hotel to anyone. I will be defantly staying again many thanks

This is an absolutely stunning property! My wife and I have stayed here a few times and it only gets better. The views (WOW), the infinity pool! the curated landscaping, the ambient music, the restoration of this 18th century structure...... all magnificent. Lovely staff, excellent breakfast, parking is a 4 minute walk from the property but hey, you can't have it all right! If you see some scuffs and or cracks remember that properties like these are very old and must be addressed by qualified people. Plus it only adds to the character and charm of the place. I'm embarrassed to read some of the negative comments by fellow American travelers and in some cases self proclaimed seasoned travelers. (Well travelled folks don't ever mention that by the way) American's tend to be a little entitled because we come from a service driven system and many forget that Europe beats to a different drum. Italy respects its laws, its climate and its environment. They respect their history and restore properties like this in the formal and correct ways. Then we come and open up our hidden Kevins and Karens as if because we pay for something, it's okay to speak to folks with demanding authority. I've witnessed this kind of behavior time and time again and each time a growing embarrassment for my kind. People who don't know how to travel should stay at home or start to learn to be a true traveler. Always expect the un expected. Nothing ever goes as planned so roll with the punches. To the staff, Keep on doing what you've been doing. You are what makes Villa Vittoria what it is. To the owner, you have crafted a beautiful dreamy place, Bravo! and everyone has their moments, I would too if an angry traveller is yelling at me without knowing the local norms. Travelers should understand where they are and take the time to try and learn a little bit of the local language to avoid misunderstandings. At the very least use a translation app. Anyway , back to the property's review. Villa Vittoria is situated in a great location, easy to find, easy to access touristic destinations and from the lake via private boat service as well. We've had boats pick us up on its' dock out back for day tours of the nearby villages/towns. The living spaces in this property are beautiful, the architectural lighting in the evening are perfect. The Villa is great for a romantic get away or if you're just passing through, in either case, It's just perfect.