Wish You Were Here: Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Italy
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There’s something undeniably familiar when you look at the Grand Hotel Tremezzo – it might its striking resemblance to Wes Anderson’s Grand Budapest Hotel from his movie of the same name. Change a few colours and the location and you’re basically there.
But the best part about the Grand Hotel Tremezzo is that this stunning and elaborate hotel sits right opposite Lake Como, the most picturesque lake in the world (and it’s also home to George Clooney).
With its magnificent façade and rich history dating back to 1910, the hotel exudes a sense of grandeur and sophistication. Its opulent interiors blend classic Italian style with modern comforts, featuring lavish furnishings, exquisite artwork, and refined details at every turn.
Guests can indulge in the hotel’s world-class amenities, including multiple restaurants serving gourmet cuisine, a luxurious spa offering rejuvenating treatments, and a stunning infinity pool overlooking the azure waters of Lake Como. With its impeccable service and unparalleled beauty, the Grand Hotel Tremezzo captures the essence of Italian hospitality.
We’re a tiny bit obsessed with food over here at AWOL so here’s everything you need to know about the restaurants and bars at the hotel.
Indulge in a culinary journey at the Grand Hotel Tremezzo, where three restaurants and two bars await. La Terrazza Gualtiero Marchesi, led by head chef Osvaldo Presazzi, pays homage to the ‘father of modern Italian cuisine’ and tempts guests with a menu of traditional Italian gourmet dishes. Delight in signature creations such as open ravioli and gilded saffron risotto. This restaurant is the perfect setting for both breakfast and dinner. L’Escale Trattoria & Wine Bar welcomes guests for dinner, offering a delectable selection of local Italian cheeses, cold cuts, and rustic dishes. Immerse yourself in a wine tasting experience, exploring the extensive collection of over 300 Italian regional wines. For a beachside dining experience, Giacomo al Lago brings together the renowned fish dishes of Giacomo Milano with breathtaking views of Lake Como. Enjoy a leisurely lunch featuring classic Italian favorites or savor one of Giacomo’s signature fish creations while admiring the enchanting moonlit waters.
Quench your thirst and unwind at any of the Grand Hotel Tremezzo’s three bars, ensuring a refreshing experience throughout your stay. The panoramic terrace hosts the T Bar, where you can relax and enjoy the splendid view of Bellagio while sipping on a T Ribbon cocktail—a tantalizing blend of vodka, Aperol, pineapple juice, orange bitter, and saffron. The extensive menu includes a variety of pastas, sandwiches, burgers, and delectable desserts. Live piano music sets the ambiance each evening, enhancing your enjoyment. If you find yourself basking in the sunshine, the outdoor Giacomo al Lago cocktail bar is at your service, ensuring you stay hydrated with an array of delightful beverages. Additionally, at T Pizza, the skilled pizzaioli will create your chosen pie right before your eyes, providing an authentic and delicious experience.
Prices for the Grand Hotel Tremezzo start at €450 ($698AUD) per night but FYI The hotel is closed every year from November to March.
How To Get To Grand Hotel Tremezzo
Planes: For travelers arriving by air, Milan Malpensa Airport is located 80km away from the Grand Hotel Tremezzo. The hotel offers convenient transfer services that can be arranged, with prices ranging from €220 to €370 depending on factors such as the size and specifications of the car as well as the number of passengers. Alternatively, the next closest airport, Milan Linate, also provides transfer options arranged by the hotel, with similar pricing starting from €220 to €370.
Trains: For those arriving by train, Como San Giovanni station is approximately 29km away from the hotel, a short 30-minute drive. The Grand Hotel Tremezzo can arrange transfers from the station at prices ranging from €110 to €210, depending on the chosen car.
Automobiles: Guests arriving by car can take advantage of the hotel’s valet parking service. The hotel provides the convenient option of dropping off your car at an external garage, which costs €35 per night (plus VAT). To reach the Grand Hotel Tremezzo from Milan, it takes about one hour by following the signs for the A9 motorway in the direction of Como–Chiasso. From there, take the Lago di Como exit and continue for approximately 1km. At the roundabout, take the third exit and follow the signs for Menaggio, which will lead you along the picturesque Strada Statale Regina SS340, a scenic road running parallel to the lake’s shore for about 25km. Look out for orange signs along the way, indicating the distance to the Grand Hotel Tremezzo. The hotel is located just beyond the Tremezzo town sign.
All images: Grand Hotel Tremezzo
This post was originally published on October 16th, 2015 and has since been updated.
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