A fairy tale embedded into reality -could be this Resort’s slogan, too- Villa Crespi seats on a hill from which it dominates Lake Orta, in the Piedmont region. Built in 1879, now part of the Relais et Chateaux group, the abode’s Moorish style architecture and gardens -dropping down to the lake’s shores- particularly contribute in rendering this four star hotel an exquisite setting for a relaxing week-end. The interior design follows the graceful exterior charm with opulence and period furniture, with modern amenities to ensure maximum guests ‘s comfort and a touch of contemporary style for the lounge area. Chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo, in partnership with his wife, Cinzia Primatesta, welcomes guests in the House’s restaurant.

Villa Crespi’s original owner, Cristoforo Benigno Crespi, was a wealthy cotton merchant in love with the Middle Eastern style. Inspired by the fascinating splendor of Baghdad’s architecture, the property has an elegant tower in the style of a minaret. Villa Pia, namedto homage Crispi’s wife, Pia Travelli, is still legible on one of this fine country house gates.  With time, Villa Crespi reputation as a luxury hotel expanded to all North Europe. During the ‘30s, literary figures, captains of industry and the Italian King at that time, Umberto of Savoy, were regular guests.

Finely appointed with period furniture and paintings, Villa Crespi is a three story hotel with 14 rooms and suites. The Arabesque style decor is embedded practically everywhere. Rich, oriental color draperies reminiscing of bygone eras, sets the all around sophisticated atmosphere. Superb marble for the large bathrooms, period parquet floorings and furniture with stunning garden or lake views distinguish each room. In accord with old fashion disposition -which gave owners and their guests obvious advantages- the largest rooms are located on the first and second floors of Villa Crespi, while the top third floor, originally reserved for the domestic staff, sports private balconies within the Classic rooms choice. Four-poster canopy beds in the Deluxe rooms and royal-blue, silk wall hangings in the Junior suites, seems well suited to accomplish the Arabian nights guest’s experience. Similar features, in golden color nuances, for the Royal and Gold as well as the Executive suites. Deep red brocade distinguishes the Imperial and Regina Vittoria suites, all providing stunning lake and romantic gardens view.

Villa Crespi’s restaurant shines with two Michelin guide stars, thanks to renowned chef Antonino Cannavacciulo, who utilizes both north and south Italian finest ingredients for his distinctive fusion cuisine, elegantly conveying different flavors/colors in his dish creations.

The Chandra Deva Wellness Suite clearly express Villa Crespi’s well-being philosophy in creating a divine experience for his guests: an enticing range of Ayurveda treatments and massages by professional experts, within the relaxing atmosphere of calming, incense-scented rooms and sumptuous offerings of seasonal fruits. Personalized options for the treatments allows guests to complete, or start their day, with an exclusive -fairy tale like – lingering experience in mind.  

www.villacrespi.it