Villa Passalacqua: an alluring retreat


18 November 2022
Written by
Sara Magro

on the shores of Lake Como


Villa Passalacqua redefines luxury, blending the allure of a private villa with the opulence of a five-star hotel. Recently restored to its former glory after three years of meticulous work, the 19th-century Moltrasio villa now stands as one of Lake Como’s most sumptuous retreats, earning Valentina De Santis the esteemed Hotelier of the Year 2022 award. Beyond its star-studded reputation, it’s the experience that truly sets Villa Passalacqua apart. With a limited number of rooms (24) and a sense of aristocratic grandeur, guests revel in the ambiance of bygone holiday estates. This innovative concept of hospitality, masterminded by the De Santis family, offers an intimate villa-like environment with the exquisite amenities of a historical five-star luxury hotel. It responds to the growing preference for exclusive, spacious retreats amid the changing landscape of high-end tourism, intensified by the pandemic.

Villa Passalacqua’s interior brims with elegance, featuring restored stuccoes, frescoes, wrought-iron gates, and original floors. Antique furnishings, artful chandeliers from esteemed craftsmen, and luxurious fabrics from Fortuny, Dedar, and Rubelli complete the splendid design. Even the bed sheets, made from wood fibre, add to the unique sense of comfort and sophistication. The lush terraced park offers a myriad of delights, from a serene rose garden to a picturesque bocce court, tennis courts, and a delightful henhouse providing fresh eggs for breakfast. The stunning pool area, adorned with vibrant La Double J umbrellas and cushions, adds a contemporary twist to the classical charm of the estate. This innovative project not only sets a new benchmark for luxury tourism worldwide but also exemplifies the unparalleled allure of Italian hospitality at its finest.

Discover Villa Passalacqua

Villa Passalacqua. Ph. Enrico Costantini


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