Near the town of Torno, in Italy, on the shores of Lake Como, rises the Hotel Il Sereno. Surrounded by the Alps, picturesque villages and blue waters, this luxury refuge is a privileged place to live a peaceful dolce vita.
With everything you need to disconnect from the world for a few days, Il Sereno is not really that far from “civilization”. It’s less than six kilometers from the town of Como, while Milan Malpensa Airport is only 50 minutes away by car.
A good way to assess the status a luxury destination is to meet the celebrities who settle there to spend their vacations. Actor George Clooney, who has repeatedly declared his love for Italy, discovered the lake years ago, when it could still be considered a secret. Since then, he has encouraged many of his friends and colleagues to acquire homes and land in the area.
Today, Lake Como is surrounded by mansions and beautiful luxury hotels. But Il Sereno stands out above the rest for its modern style and its harmonious incorporation into the landscape. It was designed by Spanish designer Patricia Urquiola, who had previously created the interiors of the Mandarin Oriental hotel in Barcelona.
For this project, Urquiola was also involved in the architecture of the hotel and even in the design of the boats and the uniforms of employees. Her comprehensive vision of Hotel Il Sereno proposed the use of sunlight spaces and natural materials, so that they were perceived as an extension of the landscape. It was not an easy task.
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Hotel Il Sereno was built on an old boat shed made of stone, a true audacity for a community that prides itself on preserving its original constructions.
Guests can also relax in the infinity pool or green areas, designed by none other than famous French designer Patrick Blanc, author of some of the most beautiful vertical gardens in the world today.
Hotel Il Sereno also proposes a day trip to Milan, for those who want to go shopping or change the landscape. And to release stress, the hotel has a peaceful spa located between the centennial vaults of the shed, on the ground floor.
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Lovers of creative Italian cuisine are in luck, as the hotel houses the Berton Al Lago restaurant, awarded with a Michelin star. It is directed by Italian chef Andrea Berton, who offers his signature cuisine with ingredients from the area.
Hotel Il Sereno is a space of great beauty and privacy for those seeking serenity, those who understand that a restful life is also a luxury. ■