Your Lake Como journey begins with a serene arrival at the Mandarin Oriental Lago di Como, a luxurious embrace on the water’s edge. This grand estate, a restored 19th-century villa in the village of Blevio, offers a distinct sense of history and unparalleled lakeside views. It’s a place where you can truly embrace the Italian concept of “dolce far niente,” the sweetness of doing nothing, but with an air of refined elegance.
Discovering Lake Como Splendor
The Mandarin Oriental Lago di Como is perfectly situated on the southeast banks of the iconic lake, offering a stunning perspective of the colorful hillside villages across the water. Its location near Blevio means you’re just a short, scenic 15-minute drive from the bustling town of Como. This makes it exceptionally convenient to reach, especially if you’re arriving from Milan, which is only about a 50-minute train ride away. The drive from Milan, particularly with the hotel’s sleek Tesla transfer service waiting for you outside the station, sets a tone of seamless luxury from the moment you step off the train.
Elegant Villa Design
Stepping into the main 19th-century structure, Villa Roccabruna, feels like entering a bygone era of high society. The Neoclassical hallways are adorned with handmade wallpaper, and the common areas exude an opulent yet welcoming atmosphere. You’ll find yourself drawn to the beautifully appointed reception area, with its large windows framing breathtaking lake views, and the chic late-night lounge bar, a perfect spot to unwind.
Ascending the sweeping marble staircase reveals some of the most desirable guest accommodations. The Duplex Suite, a unique offering in the main villa, provides access to a generous terrace, making for an unforgettable stay. This combination of classic Italian architecture with subtle Asian influences, characteristic of the Mandarin Oriental brand, creates a truly distinctive ambiance.
The property also boasts exceptional amenities. Descend to the spa, a tranquil haven hidden beneath the main activity areas. This underground retreat offers an indoor pool, saunas, and a relaxation space that evokes a sense of cinematic privacy. It’s an ideal escape for quiet reflection, a stark contrast to the vibrant energy of the resort.
Outside, the resort’s swimming pool is a true spectacle, appearing to float directly on the lake. The spacious sundeck surrounding it is the perfect place to soak up the sun. While a pool bar is available, it offers a limited selection, which feels like a missed opportunity for more extensive poolside dining. For those planning a visit outside the peak summer months, you might find the pool temperature a little cool unless it’s particularly sunny.
Luxurious Accommodations
Your stay in a Duplex Suite here is an experience in pure elegance. The design flows seamlessly from the lounge area downstairs to the upstairs bedroom and the marble-adorned bathroom. Each part of the suite feels like a natural extension of the villa’s sophisticated common spaces, a rarity in many luxury hotels where guest rooms can sometimes feel less inspired.
What truly elevates the Duplex Suite is its expansive terrace. This 26-square-meter outdoor space juts out gracefully, bringing you closer to the lake’s edge. Waking up to the sight of private boats gliding across the water from this vantage point is an experience you won’t soon forget.
When we visited with Michael and the children, Lily was particularly fascinated by the boats zipping past her bedroom window each morning. It was a simple moment, but seeing her excitement made the picturesque setting even more special. For a family stay, ensuring you have a room with ample outdoor space like this terrace is definitely worth considering.
Culinary Delights and Dining
The signature restaurant, L’Aria, commands a stellar reputation, and it’s easy to see why. Chef Massimiliano Blasone expertly crafts a menu that adds exciting, nuanced twists to traditional Italian dishes without overpowering their fundamental flavors. You’ll find dishes that are as visually appealing as they are delicious.
Some standout dishes include an incredibly rich medley of red prawns served on carasau bread, a delightful start to any meal. The tagliatelle with lobster and almond pesto is perfectly executed, though perhaps the star of the menu is the chilled Chilean sea bass. Served in a deeply satisfying sauce, this fatty, perfectly cooked fish is an absolute triumph.
Breakfast at L’Aria is also an event in itself. The decadent à la carte options are best enjoyed at one of the tables closest to the water’s edge. From here, you can watch the hotel’s fleet of boats being prepared for the day, adding a touch of exclusive spectacle to your morning.
On one occasion, Ethan, who can be a picky eater, surprised us by thoroughly enjoying a specially prepared pasta dish at L’Aria. It’s always a relief when the children find something they love on vacation, and the restaurant’s flexibility with young diners was appreciated.
Exceptional Guest Service
The team at Mandarin Oriental Lago di Como operates with a philosophy that no request is too difficult. Their reputation for going the extra mile to ensure a perfectly harmonious, unintrusive luxury experience is evident in every interaction. You can expect attentive service that anticipates your needs without being overbearing.
However, it’s worth noting that with a property of this caliber, many guests share the same desire to make the most of their stay. If you’re keen to experience the hotel’s fleet of boats for a leisurely cruise on the lake, booking well in advance is highly advisable. This ensures you secure your preferred time and don’t miss out on this popular amenity.
Verdict and Value
A stay at the Mandarin Oriental Lago di Como typically begins at rates of around AU$1,337 per night. Considering its prime location on one of the world’s most desirable luxury vacation spots, these rates reflect the exceptional quality and unique offerings of the hotel. The investment provides access to stunning gardens, perfect for leisurely morning strolls or reading, and dining experiences like L’Aria, which offers a cinematic setting right on the property’s dock.
The overall value is derived from the cohesive experience the resort provides, creating a postcard-perfect vision of Lake Como. It offers a blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and modern luxury that makes for a memorable Italian getaway in 2026.
Essential Visitor Information
Getting There
The Mandarin Oriental Lago di Como is located at Via E. Caronti, 69, 22020 Blevio CO, Italy. It is approximately a 50-minute train journey from Milan.
The hotel provides a private Tesla transfer service, which can be arranged from Como train station or other points.
Best Time to Visit
When is the best time to visit Lake Como
The shoulder seasons, April to June and September to October, typically offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for exploring the lake and surrounding areas.
Summer, from July to August, is the warmest and busiest period, perfect for enjoying the lake’s many water activities.
Key Amenities
What unique features does the hotel offer
The resort boasts a private fleet of boats available for guest use, allowing for scenic cruises on Lake Como.
Guests can enjoy a serene spa with an indoor pool, saunas, and relaxation areas, as well as a stunning outdoor swimming pool situated directly on the lake.
While planning your visit, remember that booking popular experiences like the hotel’s boats in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel times.
A visit to the Mandarin Oriental Lago di Como offers a truly special way to experience the beauty and relaxation of Lake Como. It’s a place that stays with you long after you leave.