Casa du Lac, by R Collection Hotels

We spent four nights at the wonderful Hotel du Lac in Varenna, on Lake Como, in late September. Since returning we’ve heard that the hotel has been sold. I sincerely hope that the new owners do not change too much, as it was such a beautiful, family run property and there is little sense messing with something that works so well. The hotel is ideally located on the edge of the lake and literally seconds from the main square. We stayed in Room 10, a room with a private terrace overlooking the lake. The views were simply magnificent. We had breakfast included which was served in the Ristorante du Lac, again overlooking the lake. On the first morning we ate outside on the terrace, but the other mornings were chillier, so we sat inside at the window. Breakfast was served with an array of yoghurts, cereals, breads and pastries placed in from of you on a tiered tray. Hot food was then ordered from a menu, and it was always of excellent quality. Coffee, as you would expect in Italy, was always good. Nothing was too much trouble for the staff, they were there to offer any advice on anything. The room was cleaned each day to perfection. We did eat dinner on our last evening in the hotel restaurant, which I have reviewed separately. Wonderful food in wonderful surroundings. This was a very, very good hotel, and as I’ve previously stated, I do hope that not too much changes under its new ownership.

This hotel was recommended to us by friends and it did not disappoint. The staff are amazingly friendly and helpful. They cleaned our room every morning and freshened it each evening including fresh towels each time. The bed was very comfortable - not too soft. Great water pressure with lots of hot water. Great flushing toilet. The view from the hotel is fabulous. We went to see the Grand Hotel Tremezzo and thought we had the superior view at Hotel du Lac. The breakfast each morning is included with the room. There is a buffet of pastries and cheeses. And you can order a variety of eggs or omelets and the bacon is delicious. There is great hiking nearby. I recommend the hike to the castle Vezio and its gardens. Also lots of nearby bars and restaurants. We had dinner at the hotel our last night with their tasting menu - fantastic. Highly recommend this hotel.

My husband and I spent four nights of our honeymoon in Varenna and were so fortunate to have found and booked this hotel. It was a dream come true. From the wonderfully kind front desk staff (like Tatiana, Valentina, Claudia and Alex) to the beautifully (and simply) appointed rooms, the hotel is an absolute gem. The robes and slippers are a nice touch, along with the welcome cookies. I adored the lake view that we had from our room. Waking up to this view was truly magical. We especially loved the morning breakfasts on the terrace, which despite being in (touristy season) July, were quiet and picturesque. The quality of the breakfasts were top notch, and not to be missed. We also had lunch at the hotel restaurant, which was fantastic as well. The only thing we wished this hotel had was a pool, to allow for lounging near some water in the heat. It was our first time in Varenna, and we’re dreaming of a time in the near future when we can return. Grazie Mille Hotel du lac Varenna.