Albergo Villa Belvedere

If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up in an Italian villa and throwing open your shutters to a breathtaking view, the Albergo Villa Belvedere will surely capture your heart. This enticing 18th-century villa with mustard-yellow façade, crisp-white trim, and dove-gray shutters has a superb setting. Only a private terrace separates it from Lake Como. This intimate inn is an incredible value—but do not expect a luxury hotel: the furnishings are simple. (Since we first visited the Villa Belvedere many years ago it has been constantly upgraded.) What you get is much more: an incomparable setting, great warmth of welcome, and old-fashioned comfort enhanced by faultless housekeeping. What makes Villa Belvedere so outstanding is the Cappelletti family’s genuine hospitality. Jane Cappelletti (born in Scotland) met and fell in love with her husband, Giorgio when visiting Italy. Sadly, Giorgio passed away in 2004. He is greatly missed by all who knew him and loved his warmth and happy disposition. Jane continues to run the small hotel, ably assisted by her charming, efficient daughter, Michela. The Villa Belvedere is steps from the dock, where you can board a ferry to explore beautiful Lake Como with its clusters of romantic villages. Splurge on a lakefront room (such as 7 or 15)—these are quieter with spectacular vistas.