Castadiva, first and only eco-friendly resort on Lake Como

In the recent years, Como became a household name by virtue of its association to heart-throb, “sexiest man alive” George Clooney, who in 2002 made the romantic and exclusive gateway his summer home. The small, scenic and romantic Italian lake  was the place where Italian aristocrats used to spend their holidays way before Hollywood put its stamp on it. It was also the place where poets would contemplate, dream and get inspired.

Lake Como has a “Je ne sais quoi” which captures your soul almost immediately after setting eyes on it. And that feeling never changes! I get the same heart-warming reaction each time I’m there and it never dissipates.

This time, I got to experience it with a different eye, from a new perspective, one that should be critical and mindful. I got to stay at Castadiva Resort & Spa, the most romantic resort on the shores of Lake Como, directly across late Gianni Versacce‘s villa as well as George Clooney’s and a hop away to the village of Bellagio.

Pinch me! Is this a dream or is this my life?

ABOUT

Castadiva Resort, formerly Villa Roccabruna, used to be the home of soprano Giuditta Pasta and muse of the 19^th Century composer Vincenzo Bellini. Today it houses 73 suites and rooms, each uniquely decorated, as well as two private villas. 

Castadiva is not just a luxury hotel hiding in the embrace of lake Como. It is also an advocate of authenticity and alignment with nature by being the first and only eco-friendly resort on Lake Como. The following are some examples of their initiatives:

• Use power instead of methane for installations
• Produce clean energy through a heat exchanger by drawing water from the Lake
• Adjustable air conditioning system in each suite and residential suite room

Beatrice Lessi of Ask the Monsters

Castadiva Resort

Castadiva Resort

Castadiva Resort

Castadiva Resort

Castadiva Resort

Castadiva Resort

First impressions

It all begins with the drive through the narrow, unkept streets of Como. Although its neighbor Switzerland is only a hop away, once passing Chiasso, one feels immediately the Italian vibe – a bit chaotic, unkept, loud and full of life.

Once we reached the hotel’s premises and the guard approved our visit, true Italian style, we had to drive for a little while longer down windy lanes, which to our surprise gave not much away. All we could see were the splendid and immaculate gardens of the property – great way to tease anyone’s curiosity and challenge one’s expectations! 

Then the magic happened! OMG! It was love at first sight! The lobby was small but oh so charming. The style was a mixture of antique, retro with a touch of modern. The colors were vibrant and welcoming. I could only imagine the rest! Once we checked in, we had to step outside to walk to our room. I cannot say which one excited me most. Was it the majestic, deep blue lake, or the fabulous floating pool, the grand gardens, or the sublime views? 

The property is immense but feels cozy and welcoming. The juxtaposition of history, contemporary and nature creates a certain flow that one feels immediately upon entering the premises.

I was really blown away to hear that while we were there some very prominent personalities were also there (names which I am not allowed to share at this moment). The only giveaway was the presence of gorgeous and stylish Carabinieri and secret services! I am not surprised that they would choose to vacation there as their privacy is not only respected but majorly enforced.

Carabinieri and I protecting the guests!

OUR SUITE

Wow! That was the first word that came to mind as I opened the door to our beautiful and spacious suite decorated with a style reminiscent of the rest of the hotel (old and new). Both the living room and bedroom opened to a balcony (and a huge terrace) facing the lake.

I could get used to going to sleep and waking up to this view every day of my life! Note to self: visualize this every day 🙂

H Fusion Magazine

SPA AND POOL TIME 

In all honesty, the weather was so good that I made a quick appearance to the spa, enough to enjoy a relaxing massage. The rest of my free time was spent at the pool or in the gardens. Having said that, I hope I can go back and try out everything that this 1.300 sq.mt Spa has to offer – sauna, steam bath, Mediterranean bath, the vitality pool (hydro massage and chromotherapy), Kneipp circuit, balancing Himalayan rose salt room, refreshing ice cascade and their famous aromatic showers.

If you happen to be there on a cloudy or rainy day, you will certainly have enough to occupy your time with!

Wearing my Fabric Frontline scarf

DINING

I got to enjoy a lovely dinner accompanied by my friends Beatrice and Geri from Ask the Monsters at L’Orangerie serenaded by the sound of silence under the bright light of the stars. Our dishes were small but plentiful. They were as pretty as they were tasty. Total indulgence without the guilt! Thank you Chef Massimiliano Mandozzi!

Hope to be back soon!  Ci vediamo presto!

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