Despite its reputation as being one of the most desirable destinations in the world, the legendary hotel and resort is neither snooty or aloof. Staff don't talk down to you, nor up. All guests are equal - albeit some have fatter wallets. The hotel is famous for its friendliness, good nature, unequalled facilities and dedication to guests' comfort, pleasure and wellbeing. And they remember your name even if you haven't been there for several years.
No need for choreographed Wow factors here - the setting says it all. .

The Scene: Poised and serene, the incomparable Villa d'Este - arguably the most beautiful hotel in the world, and easily one of the most romantic - reclines on the shores of the south-western arm of Lake Como on 25 hectares of exquisitely manicured parkland on the outskirts of the charming village of Cernobbio. It is only a hop, skip and a jump from the Swiss border, and is less than 45 minutes from Milan by car or train.

Over the years the luxurious Villa hosted a procession of European aristocracy before it was bought by Caroline of Brunswick in 1814, who named it Villa d' Este. The exiled wife of England's George 1V, Caroline never became Queen. George turned her down, some say, at the doors of Westminster Abbey. In 1856 however, a beautiful trompe l'oeil pavilion was built adjacent to the Cardinal's palace and named 'Hotel de la Reine d' Angleterre' to honour the 'jilted' queen.  Over the years the Villa hosted a procession of European aristocracy before it was bought by Caroline of Brunswick in 1814, who named it Villa d' Este. The exiled wife of England's George 1V, Caroline never became Queen. George turned her down, some say, at the doors of Westminster Abbey. In 1856 however, a beautiful trompe l'oeil pavilion was built adjacent to the Cardinal's palace and named 'Hotel de la Reine d' Angleterre' to honour the 'jilted' queen.

Check in: Villa d' Este, Lago di Como, via Regina 40 - 22012 Cernobbio, Como, Italy.  www.villadeste.it/   

Member  of The Leading Hotels of the World.

Ultimate Luxury: Arriving at the resort by helicopter.

Most Indulgent Moments: Sipping a cocktail on the terrace and enjoying the panoramic spectacle of the lake while watching the sun set, Alps glistening in the background.

Insider Secrets: Keeping a watchful eye for just 'who' might rock up to the Night Club, or drop in for a nightcap in the Canova Bar.  

The Little Things: I just love the blue and white floral paper packaging and the fragrance of the guest toiletries.

Junior Luxies: Heaps. Kid's Club in the summer season. Children's pool with its own private sandy beach and sundeck.

Dress code : Gentlemen, a jacket and tie is required when dining in The Veranda Restaurant. Ladies, here is your chance to parade your finery. Just don't go slouching through the hotel in daggy duds and floppy footwear. Use the underground passage leading from the main building to access the Sporting Club and indoor swimming pool.