Filario Hotel & Residences, Lake Como

Stay on the eastern shores of Lake Como, across the waters from magnificent Villa del Balbianello. Bellagio is a ten-minute drive north.

Public boats serve Lezzeno, less than ten minutes' walk from the hotel.

By plane: London to Milan Malpensa takes under 2 hours and Manchester to Milan Malpensa takes 2 hours 15 minutes, after which, it's an hour and 20 minutes' drive to the hotel. Paid on-site parking available. Book flights to Milan.

Carved into the mountainside, the hotel perfectly reflects its location with the use of wood and glass, while the décor is predominantly in earthy tones of grey and brown. Floor-to-ceiling windows draw attention to the gorgeous lakeside panoramas and flood interiors with natural light.

Staff are professional, welcoming and willing to offer recommendations on things to do and see in the area. Facilities include a private beach with beach club, infinity pool and complimentary use of sports equipment including kayaks and stand-up paddle boards.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Private beach
• Swimming pool
• On-site parking
• Free Wi-Fi

With floor-to-ceiling windows, rooms are exceptionally bright. All are west facing and have balconies. Spacious and inviting, you'll find them replete with bespoke furnishings and all mod cons.

Room types: Superior, Deluxe, Junior Suite, Grand Suite

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, private terrace, TV, free Wi-Fi

There's a strong emphasis on seafood dishes at Filo, althought you'll also find a vegan tasting menu. The food is excellent - sit back on the lakeside terrace and savour homemade ravioli with duck liver, nasturtiums and grapefruit. Yeast is more informal - the hotel's trendy beach bar specialises in pizza.

Ristorante Filo: Sophisticated Italian cuisine, à la carte and tasting menus. Open seasonally (Apr-Oct) for lunch and dinner.

Yeast: all-day dining - beach bar, pizzas and gelato.