A destination wedding in Italy is one of the most memorable and glamorous ways to tie the knot, and Lake Como tops the list of hotspots for mariage venues combining luxurious grandeur, breathtaking nature and rustic Italian charm.
Villa Pliniana (Photo: courtesy of Villa Pliniana)
Home to one of the deepest lakes in Europe and just 30 minutes from Milan, the Lago di Como area in Lombardy is renowned for its dramatic natural scenery, dotted with centuries-old villas, and for its mild climate across the summer and winter months. An oasis of tranquillity with astounding alpine vistas, it’s the ideal spot for couples wanting to make a statement when they tie the knot with an unforgettable destination wedding that family and friends will talk about for years to come. From spectacular villas to grand hotels, choosing where to celebrate your love story around Italy’s most romantic lake can be overwhelming. Travel Mag has explored seven of the finest venues Lake Como has to offer for your special day.
Villa Pliniana
Step inside this idyllic 16th-century private Italian estate and get ready to be whisked away to another era. Villa Plianiana is pure opulence steeped in history. Built in 1573 around the natural spring that is its namesake, the villa has opened its doors to guests as illustrious as Napoleon, Percy Shelley, Byron and Liszt. If you fancy some pampering with your beloved before the big day, look no further than Plinana’s spa and wellness center, and don’t forget to take a dip in the infinity pool that gives the illusion of swimming in the middle of the lake. The Villa prides itself on five-star service catering so that you can get hitched without a hitch. Make an entrance by arriving at the altar via helicopter, hold your ceremony in the vast waterfront gardens and follow up with a reception in the exquisite ballrooms, before you and your guests
retire to the suites and fall asleep to the gentle lapping of the Como waters.
Via Cesare Poggi, 29, 22020 Torno CO
Villa Pizzo
Villa Pizzo (Photo courtesy of Villa Pizzo)
Tucked away between the towns of Moltrasio and Cernobbio is a 17th-century aristocratic villa. Only visible in its entirety from the lake and boasting magnificent gardens that stretch along the water, this romantic Italian setting is straight from the pages of a fairy tale. A delicate pastel palette catches the light throughout the villa, standing out against the lush verdure of the gardens. Say ‘I do’ in the presence of family and friends on the grand dock, steal a quiet moment with your beloved in the Rose or English gardens before strolling down Cypress Boulevard back to your guests. Raise a champagne toast while surrounded by neoclassical, frescoed interiors and glimmering chandeliers, then dine under the stars with a personnalized menu designed by Milan-based caterers AFM Banqueting, Villa Pizzo’s exclusive partner. A first dance near the baroque fountains, and this magical party is just getting started.
Via Regina, 48, 22012 Cernobbio CO
Grand Hotel Tremezzo
Grand Hotel Tremezzo (Photo courtesy of Grand Hotel Tremezzo)
Old Hollywood glamor emanates from this 5-star hotel built in 1910. The Belle Époque splendor here merges seamlessly with contemporary luxury. Pose for the wedding album with views of Bellagio and the Grigne mountains, and lounge on the shore reading over your vows with toes in the sand. As twilight approaches, guests can wander into
the enchanting Sala Contessa, where silverware gleams by candlelight: an ideal setting for an intimate reception. Then party on into the night at L’Escale, a relaxed wine bar with space to host a live band or DJ of your choice. From hen party boat tours to pre-wedding cocktails, from the rehearsal to the day-after brunch, the Grand Hotel Tremezzo will meet your needs with warm Italian hospitality.
Via Regina, 8, 22016 Tremezzina CO
Villa Balbiano
Fireworks at Villa Balbiano (Photo courtesy of The Heritage Collection – Villa Balbiano)
An opulent, historical palazzo fit for royalty lies on the western bank of Lake Como in the town of Ossuccio. Built at the end of the 16th century and once owned by Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio, Villa Balbiano has housed many a celebration in its day. Occupying over 2 hectares, this is the largest private villa on the lake, an Italian gem welcoming couples that want to pledge their love in style. Prepare to walk down the aisle in the
ornate marble bathrooms and heavenly suites designed by famed interior decorator Jacques Garcia. Marvel at the antiquities, gold accents and soft furnishings as you enter the magnificent gardens to greet your guests.
Piazza Cardinal Durini, 22010 Ossuccio CO
Villa Monastero
Villa Monastero (Photo courtesy of Vvilla Monastero)
Built at the end of the 12th century and once a Cistercian women’s monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary, Villa Monastero sits on the eastern shore of Lake Como. Nature and art converge to create this slice of heaven. The villa is now the House Museum, comprising 14 rooms. Admire the neo-Renaissance style interiors featuring original delightful neo-rococo tapestries: a divine backdrop to exchange rings and vows. Gather your family and friends for a photo shoot in the picture-perfect gardens, which feature rare and exotic botanical species. But most importantly, don’t forget to stop and take in the stunning views: the first but not the last in your happily ever after.
Viale Giovanni Polvani, 4, 23829 Varenna LC
Isola del Garda
Isola del Garda (Photo courtesy of Isola del Garda)
It just doesn’t get much more intimate than a secluded island nestled in the middle of a lake. Isola del Garda is just under two and a half hours by train from Lake Como, on an island on the Lake Garda. The 19th-century neo-gothic Venetian villa is surrounded by floating Italian and English gardens, a magical mise-en-scène for the most important day of your life. The Cavazza family are passionate about making your dream wedding a reality as they welcome you into their home. Set the stage for a ceremony overlooking the lake beneath the stately villa, starting with a cocktail hour mingling with your guests in the warm afternoon sun of the formal gardens. From there, stroll over to the Loggia, adorned with 18th-century frescoes, for an decadent banquet.
Via Fornella 1, 25010 S.Felice d/B
Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni
The Salon Reale, Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni (Photo: courtesy of Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni)
This 19th-century villa is the only 5-star hotel in Bellagio, often referred to as the ‘pearl of Lake Como’. Couples can spend time together away from the hustle and bustle in glamorous, old-world elegance. Begin the day with a bountiful room service breakfast followed by relaxing spa treatments before you walk down the aisle. Take your pick of breathtaking spaces for an al fresco or indoor ceremony. Sample aperitifs with your guests on the terrace or in the lovely private garden with views of the glistening lake. Make an entrance in the Salon Reale, a majestic ballroom lit with bronze and crystal chandeliers, poised to host an unforgettable gastronomic experience for you and your entourage. La dolce vita starts here.
Via Teresio Olivelli, 1, 22021 Bellagio CO