Travel

Scandi Stays: Filario Hotel on Lake Como, Italy

The words “Lake Como” may immediately conjure images of opulence and glamor, but Filario Hotel is opting for something a little more subdued: call it “quiet luxury,” as that’s exactly the atmosphere of this stunning hotel and residence located in the small town of Lezzeno about 15 kilometres northeast of Como and 50 kilometres north of Milan.

Situated directly on the water, Hotel Filario has only 34 rooms, with an additional series of 45 apartments and small villas along the coast that are also part of the overall hotel. These can be rented for longer periods, ideal for families and large gatherings.

The hotel itself, opened in 2015, is the brainchild of hotelier Alessandro Sironi. His first hotel, Filario was borne of years of hotel experience across the USA and Europe, as well as a desire to showcase his home in an authentic and engaging way.

“I was born right here,” Alessandro explains, “And I always knew that I wanted to create a modern property on Lake Como. But I didn’t want it to be the typical, overly-opulent style. I wanted luxury, but in a way that connected to the natural environment. That’s why the suites are all on the ground floor, so that they can be right on the lakefront. And that’s why the restaurant uses local, seasonal ingredients.”

 

 


 

Despite this pared-back approach, the hotel is decidedly luxurious, with suites that include private terraces and plunge pools. The interiors are comfortable and textured, managing to be both inviting and grand. It is, of course, the mix of excellent service and incredible views that elevate the entire experience.

In addition to the rooms themselves, Filario Hotel boasts a private beach – a rarity in Lake Como hotels – and one of the best restaurants in the area. “We’re updating this entire terrace,” Alessandro notes as he gestures to Restaurant Filo’s outdoor seating. “I want it to be even more comfortable, because the view here is just incredible. To have this view while you enjoy a meal is something special.”

 

 


 

Restaurant Filo has become a major touchstone of the Lake Como food scene thanks to its fabulous view of the lake, strong wine list, and fresh menu. Instead of more traditional and heavier Italian fare, guests can expect seasonal and local ingredients, handmade pasta, and flavourful, colorful produce. Even if you’re not staying at Filario, booking a table at Filo is an ideal way to enjoy your time on Lake Como and take in the local culture.

Though you could easily spend your entire holiday at the hotel thanks to the view and the food, Filario offers easy access to Como and Bellagio, two of the main nearby tourist towns. There are boats going regularly, as well as a local bus. If needed, the hotel can organise a private car or taxi.

 

 


 

The town in which Filario sits, Lezzeno, is small, but there are a handful of shops, hotels, and restaurants nearby that offer the chance to walk off-property. Hotel Filario is definitely the jewel of the area, but if you feel like a pizza, that’s possible just a few minutes away.

Along with his new hotel, Hotel Windsor in Laigueglia, Liguria, Alessandro Sironi is intent on creating a sense of place with Filario Hotel. He’s done that by building a hotel that honours its location and acts as a showcase for, rather than a refuge from, the outdoors. “When guests are here, I want them to feel the simplicity of the hotel’s elegance, and feel wowed by the beauty of the lake. I believe hospitality is a warm welcome; it doesn’t need to be formal or grave. A hotel should allow guests to feel that they can live locally in a place they’ve never been. That’s what we do at Filario.”

 

 


 

Find out more about Hotel Filario and book your stay.

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Rebecca Thandi Norman

Rebecca Thandi Norman is a co-founder and Editor-in-Chief at Scandinavia Standard.