Hotel Villa Cipressi - by R Collection Hotels

The gardens and panoramic views over Lake Como at Hotel Villa Cipressi were breathtaking, like something from a dream. We stayed there for a wedding, and the whole experience was unforgettable. The staff were kind, professional, and always ready to help with a smile. The charming, elegant rooms mix history with comfort. Everything was beautifully organized, from the ceremony overlooking the lake to dinner under the stars. It really captures the magic of Italy.

We came to Hotel Villa Cipressi for the gardens, and the €10 admission was absolutely worth it. They’re well kept, with a lovely nature walk and gorgeous photo backdrops. Lake Como looked stunning, peaceful, and romantic. Getting a photo at the famous gate was another story. The queue was hectic, and we waited over an hour. Some people took their time, which is understandable, but it slowed things down. Maybe a staff member could manage the line and allow around 2 minutes per person. After we finally took our photo, we had a drink by the bar. We hadn’t checked the price beforehand, and an Aperol Spritz was €18. That’s definitely pricey, though the view makes it somewhat understandable. It was a lovely visit and we’ll be back, but a few small improvements could make it perfect.

Italy had given us jaw-dropping places and so many kind locals that we could’ve started our own Vespa gang. Then Hotel Villa Cipressi turned out to be the final boss of vacation letdowns. We’d spent months planning our 30th anniversary and exchanging friendly emails and confirmations, hoping for an easy stay. Check-in was chaos. First they asked whether we had a parking pass. We said no, then they changed their minds and said yes, about thirty minutes later. While we waited, we were told to get our own bags from the car parked right out front. Apparently self-service romance is a thing in Italy now. Our room was supposedly an upgrade, but compared with my reservation it was a downgrade. Think “Motel 6 study abroad.” The bed felt like petrified wood, the pillows were flatter than my optimism, and the towels could sand furniture. The shower door wouldn’t close, so we got to flood the bathroom together. We didn’t discover breakfast until day two, like it was a national secret. The veranda was closed for a wedding right below our window. We’d been told it would shut down at 10PM. The bar and restaurant were closed too, since apparently the whole hotel was at that wedding. No wine for us. Then there were the famous gardens. Even as guests, we were asked to pay admission every time we entered. They grudgingly asked our names to check, then opened the glass door with a sneer. Nothing says exclusive stay like needing tickets to walk past your own room. And when the public gardens closed, so did the hotel grounds. We were locked out of paradise while paying to be there. By then, all we could do was laugh. So sure, five stars. Would absolutely poop there again.

The location and atmosphere are incredible, so it’s easy to enjoy the hotel when you’re here for a wedding. Our experience was still good, though the rooms were on the small side and the service only okay. It feels like the property leans on its setting instead of polishing every other detail. If you expect that, it’s perfectly serviceable.