Dress – Yvon
Sandals – Saint Laurent
Bag – Hermès

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A Journey Through Mandarin Oriental Lago di Como

From lakeside breakfasts and quiet garden walks to boat rides and candlelit dinners, my stay at Mandarin Oriental Lago di Como unfolded like a dream. Tucked away on one of Italy’s most iconic lakes, this tranquil retreat became the perfect place to slow down, breathe deeply, and truly arrive. Come with me as I revisit five unforgettable days in this haven of calm and beauty.

Where the Journey Begins

 After landing in Northern Italy, I arrived at the hotel’s private drive and was immediately struck by the scale: a lovingly restored 19th-century villa expanded across nine distinct buildings, set within 25,000 m² of terraced botanical gardens. With only 75 rooms – including 21 suites and two standalone villas – the resort feels intimate even at full occupancy.

Jumpsuit – Zara
Basket – Zara
Belt – Hermès
Belt – Celine
Sunglasses – For Art’s Sake
Scarf – Hermès

My suite overlooked the lake, offering a sweeping panorama of water and cypress-lined shores. Natural flooring, Italian linens, and custom furnishings in gentle earth tones created a serene, residential atmosphere. On the balcony, the scent of jasmine from the lower gardens mingled with soft breezes over the water.

That evening, I dined at L’ARIA, the signature lakeside restaurant where Chef Massimiliano Blasone marries Italian tradition with Japanese precision. Seasonal dishes arrive family-style, perfect for lingering. Candlelight, garden views, and the endless lake horizon turned dinner into a memory I’ll always carry.

Dress – Yvon
Sandals – Saint Laurent
Bag – Hermès

Mornings That Flow Like Water

After a restful night, I stepped into the garden for breakfast, greeted by the scent of fresh pastries and the soft sparkle of morning light on the lake. The morning unfolded by the floating pool, a serene 200 square meter platform extending above the lake. Time passed with sun-warmed skin, a light breeze, and the gentle sound of water. As the evening approached, I made my way to CO.MO Bar & Bistrot for dinner. Casual yet elevated, with panoramic lake views, it offered the perfect setting for a relaxed meal of Mediterranean favorites and expertly mixed cocktails. As the sky turned golden behind the hills, the day seemed to gently come to a close.

Kaftan – Alexandra Miro
Swimsuit – Alexandra Miro
Sunglasses – For Art’s Sake
Bag – Loewe
Slides – Hermès

Dress – Yvon
Bag – Hermès
Pumps – Christian Louboutin

A Day on the Lake

Another sunny morning began with breakfast in the garden and a moment of stillness before the world stirred. Once again, the pool called. A few more quiet hours passed between pages of a book and dips in the lake-cooled water. Later in the afternoon, I set off for a private boat tour aboard a classic Venetian-style vessel. Gliding past some of Lake Como’s most iconic villas, including Villa Balbianello, Villa Carlotta, and Villa Melzi, I understood why the lake continues to inspire poets and filmmakers alike. Back at the hotel, dinner was served outdoors in the garden courtyard. Surrounded by lanterns and soft laughter, I enjoyed fresh local dishes beneath the stars. It was a peaceful end to a day shaped by water and light.

Swimsuit – Zara
Shorts – SLY 010
Slides – Christian Dior
Bag – Roger Vivier
Sunglasses – Chanel
Scarf – Hermès

Dress – Yvon
Scarf – Hermès
Bag – Hermès

Exploring Beyond the Gates

Breakfast was unhurried, and with the sun already high over the lake, I began planning a short afternoon trip into town. After a final swim and a few unhurried hours by the pool, I head off to explore beyond the grounds. In the afternoon, I wandered through the streets of nearby Como. Small boutiques, historic façades, and quiet piazzas gave the day a different rhythm. I stayed in town for dinner, choosing a cozy spot tucked down a narrow alley where the food was simply delicious and the atmosphere unpretentious.

Kaftan – Alexandra Miro
Swimsuit – Alexandra Miro
Bag – Roger Vivier
Sunglasses – Saint Laurent
Slides – Hermès

Set – Etoil Coral
Hat – Etoil Coral
Bag – Loewe
Sunglasses – For Art’s Sake
Pumps – Chanel

The Art of Slowing Down

The next day began slowly, with breakfast and a quiet moment on the balcony, the lake just as still and beautiful as ever. The morning continued at the spa, a true sanctuary designed for restoration and calm. Bathed in natural light and overlooking the lake, the space offers six treatment rooms including two private spa suites along with a Finnish sauna, steam bath, and a spacious indoor pool surrounded by floor-to-ceiling glass. After a custom massage, I moved from the warmth of the sauna to the quiet of the relaxation lounge, letting the stillness sink in. Later that evening, I raised a glass at the hotel bar, toasting to the past days. Dinner followed, one last lakeside meal that was warm, effortless, and full of grace.

Dress – Zara
Basket – Zara
Belt – Hermès
Belt – Christian Dior
Sunglasses – Celine
Hat – Christian Dior

A Farewell Filled with Gratitude

On my final morning, I took my time. Packing slowly, pausing to take in the lake view one last time, and enjoying the calm that had become so familiar over the past few days. Breakfast was relaxed and beautifully simple, with fresh pastries, excellent tea, and that quiet, thoughtful service that had been present throughout my stay. Mandarin Oriental Lago di Como combines the elegance of a grand villa with the comfort of a private home. It’s a place that invites you to slow down and stay present. Thank you for five days of calm, beauty, and truly memorable moments. I look forward to returning.