PASSALACQUA

Villa Passalacqua, perched above the village of Moltrasio on Lake Como, Italy, is a historic estate that has been completely renovated into one of the world's most luxurious boutique hotels and is receiving top honors as such in 2023. Its rich history and meticulous restoration have garnered international acclaim, which has now been chronicled in glorious color by author Andrea Ferolla and photographer Daria Reina. Assouline, the purveyor of the world’s finest books, has brought their work to life with a just-released tome: Passalacqua – A Love Letter To Lake Como.



The villa's origins trace back to the late 18th century when Count Andrea Lucini Passalacqua acquired the property in 1787. Passalacqua translates to ‘across the lake’ effectively describing the trip to the Moltrasio section of the iconic Italian region. He transformed the property into a neoclassical masterpiece with the help of architect Felice Soave and designer Giocondo Albertolli. The estate was constructed on land originally owned by Pope Innocent XI and featured expansive terraced gardens descending to the lake, adorned with formal parterres, fountains, and ancient trees from centuries before.

From the moment you step through the gates, you are living la dolce vita dream: Glamorous, nostalgic, playful, fun, romantic... —Skye McAlpine

In the 19th century, the villa became a cultural hub under the stewardship of Giambattista Lucini Passalacqua, Andrea’s heir. He amassed a rich library and hosted prominent figures such as composer Vincenzo Bellini, who composed operas like “Norma” and “La Sonnambula” during his stay on the property. Other notable guests also included Napoleon Bonaparte and Winston Churchill, who undoubtedly enjoyed a cigar or two while sitting on the expansive lawn.

Like many prominent properties of the era, Passalacqua fell into disrepair and decline until writer Oscar Kiss Maerth attempted a partial restoration in the 1970s. Finally, in 2018, the De Santis family, renowned hoteliers and owners of the Grand Hotel Tremezzo, acquired the property with a goal of making it the beauty that it once was. Under Valentina De Santis’s leadership, the villa was meticulously restored and reopened in 2022 as a 24-suite luxury hotel. The restoration preserved original frescoes, Murano glass chandeliers, and historical architecture while integrating modern amenities important to sophisticated travelers.

Today, Passalacqua offers guests an intimate experience with suites spread across three buildings: the main villa, the Palazz (former stables), and Casa al Lago by the lake. Amenities include an outdoor pool, spa facilities, and curated guest experiences. The hotel’s design reflects the Italian concept of “villeggiatura,” emphasizing a relaxed, almost floating through the air feeling of elegant living.

Ferolla and Reina’s love letter makes the journey complete for Passalacqua, with all its splendor intact.

Vivianne Arclaire is a luxury lifestyle writer for travel, home, and style publications. She recommends weekends on the Lake from late August to early October. Divine!