Site Inspection at Mandarin Oriental Lago di Como

Location

Nestled on the eastern shore of Lake Como, the hotel offers an idyllic retreat surrounded by lush botanical parkland. Just a short drive from the charming town of Como, guests can easily explore local culture or relax in the tranquil lake setting. MO Lago di Como has its own EV which goes back and forth the city of Como!

Rooms

75 exquisite modern rooms, suites and private villas, each blending classic Italian style with oriental elegance, spread across various buildings within the expansive grounds.

Hotel layout

The property encompasses several beautifully restored 19th-century villas, hosting accommodations, two restaurants, a bar and a holistic wellness center. The main villa contains the reception and a panoramic terrace overlooking the lake.

Food

L˜ARIA Restaurant: tucked away in the resort's verdant botanical park, L˜ARIA provides a laid-back yet lively gourmet dining experience. Chef Massimiliano Blasone leads the culinary team, infusing traditional Italian dishes with Japanese touches. His innovative cooking methods bring out the best in top-quality seasonal ingredients, creating intricate dishes meant for sharing that delight the palate.

CO.MO Bar & Bistrot: the perfect place for a casual daytime snack and an ideal setting for an aperitivo or a post-dinner beverage. Enjoy al-fresco dining on a roomy terrace, surrounded by lush greenery, right by the lake.

NAMI Cafè: the laid-back NAMI Cafe serves up healthy and comforting Asian-inspired dishes with a global twist. It provides a selection of refreshing drinks to enjoy by the pool, along with a tempting menu that marries the wholesomeness of healthy cuisine and the rich flavors of Asian-inspired comfort food.

Wellness

The spa at Mandarin Oriental boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including thermal experiences, an indoor pool with lake views and a wide range of rejuvenating treatments inspired by oriental philosophies.

Sport

Features a floating pool on the lake, a well-equipped fitness center and private yoga sessions in the gardens.

Pros

Offers a perfect blend of luxury and tranquility with stunning lake views and spacious, elegantly designed rooms.

Strong focus on wellness and relaxation, with comprehensive spa facilities and quiet garden areas.

Exceptional service that caters to guests' every need, making for a uniquely personalised experience.

Boasts the most breathtaking floating pool on Lake Como, which has recently been renovated to match the lake's water color perfectly. The seamless finish blurs the boundaries so effectively that it's hard to distinguish between the pool and the lake itself.

The hotel's design ensures total privacy for its guests, with rooms and villas strategically placed throughout the expansive gardens to avoid any interference with one another.

Cons

The secluded location means limited options for spontaneous local dining or nightlife without transportation.

High-end pricing, reflecting its luxurious amenities and exclusive setting.

I would argue that the highlight of Mandarin Oriental Lago di Como is its floating pool, which is the best I've seen on the lake so far.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Lake Como. In need of further inspiration? Check out Gianna Marx’s guide, Experience the Magic of Lake Como.