Villa Torretta

The pastel-yellow Villa Torretta is a simple, intimate property perched on a steep hillside overlooking the tiny harbor of Varenna. The 19th-century building, originally a private residence, features a simple entrance with brown and orange tile floors. Light-filled sitting areas on the main floor are eclectic, done in a blend of antique pieces and mountain lodge-like details. Blue and pink floral armchairs flank a large stone fireplace with an assortment of tasidermy over the mantel, while a library features pink and white Victorian furniture and glass-fronted armoires filled with books. Outside, a flagstone terrace overlooks the water and a well-kept garden that wraps around the villa. This is a peaceful, relaxed property that is a good match for travelers looking for a quaint base for exploring the region. Most of those passing through the hotel are couples. 

This hotel is perched on a hilly outcrop overlooking a tiny harbor on the eastern shores of Lake Como. Directly in front of the hotel is the ferry terminal that transports passengers to Menaggio and Bellagio, two historic towns that will take about 10 minutes to reach by boat. The Varenna train station, uphill from the hotel, is a steep five-minute walk or a two-minute taxi ride away. Villa Monastero, one of the famous historic villas ringing Lake Como, takes 10 minutes to reach on foot. Several restaurants can be reached by strolling along the lakefront or climbing the cobblestoned passageways outside the hotel -- it will take about five minutes get there on foot. Milan is about two hours away by train, while Malpensa Airport is a 90-minute drive from the hotel. For those looking to explore the area with their own car, it's worth noting that the hotel does not have parking.

Guests climb a winding wrought-iron staircase to reach the villa's six rooms (which can be a challenge for those with heavy luggage). All rooms are spacious, clean, and bright, with large picture windows and balconies or terraces, many with fantastic lake views. Old World decor creates a classic aesthetic that's almost unavoidable in this part of Italy, though it's mostly well-executed at this property. Orange and brown patterned tile floors, elegant antique furniture in dark hardwood tones, and soft landscape paintings on the pale yellow walls all come together to create a classic environment. It's worth noting that very few rooms have televisions, and none are air-conditioned. Free Wi-Fi is available. Unfortunately, the floral bedspreads just look dated. There are no carpets or rugs in rooms or on stone staircase, so interior noise can sometimes be a problem. Linens are pristine, but hard beds with flat pillows could use an update. Large bathrooms look a bit dated as well, and feature floor to ceiling tile, small stall showers, and ample marble counter tops. 

This bed-and-breakfast doesn't have many amenities, and there is no restaurant or bar on-site. A free continental breakfast is provided at Hotel Olivedo, a one-minute walk away (that hotel also has a restaurant). The ferry terminal and paddleboat rental dock is right in front of the hotel. Wi-Fi is free throughout. A fireplace lounge provides an indoor place to relax, and there's a TV room for anyone who needs to be entertained, though that doesn't seem to be what most guests are after when they come to Varenna. An outdoor terrace offers gorgeous lake views.