“Can you imagine Baghdad in Italy?” That is Villa Crespi. It is not just a hotel but a spectacle. We are standing before a unique sight on the shore of Lake Orta near Milan.
Villa Crespi was built in 1879. Cristoforo Benigno Crespi commissioned it. He was a wealthy cotton merchant. His business trips to Baghdad inspired the villa’s design. The Arabesque architecture and minaret are eye-catching.
Angelo Colla, a local architect, took on the challenge. After 30 years of Gaudi-like devotion, the villa was completed in 1899.
Over the years, Villa Crespi changed hands. Aristocratic owners followed. The Marquis Fracassi of Torre Rossano made Villa Crespi famous in the 1930s. It became a high-society hotspot. Writers, artists, and royalty visited. King Umberto of Savoy was a regular guest.
The rooms range from classic to lavish suites. They are spacious and luxurious. Even classic rooms have a balcony, queen-size beds, and romantic bathtubs. The interiors blend Arabesque style with classic European decor. Expect four-poster beds, antique furniture, and gorgeous bathrooms. Modern conveniences like air-con and satellite TV are also included.
Villa Crespi is famous for its restaurant. It has won two Michelin stars. Head chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo leads the kitchen. He was a star on Italy’s Masterchef. The food combines northern and southern Italian flavors. The dishes are creative, modern, and fresh.
The hotel values eco-friendliness. The kitchen uses organic and local ingredients. Some come from the chef’s own garden. The hotel boasts an enormous wine collection. There are 1,800 different wines. You will find classic, contemporary, local, Italian, and international options. The dining hall is elegant and intimate. The service is top-class. The dining experience is second to none.
Cooking classes are available. You can learn to create three dishes from scratch. A wellness center offers Indian-themed treatments. Explore the lovely gardens. Take walks along the shore. Hire bikes from the hotel.
The concierge service can arrange excursions. Guided tours of the lake, the island of San Giulio, and the medieval village of Orta are available. The Sacro Monti UNESCO World Heritage sites are also nearby.
Villa Crespi is located on Lake Orta in Piedmont. It is 25 km from Lake Maggiore. Milan is an hour away. Malpensa International Airport is even closer. The medieval village of Orta San Giulio is a ten-minute walk away. A short hike takes you to Sacro Monte. You can enjoy ancient chapels, frescoes, and stunning lake views.
So, as you stand here at Villa Crespi, remember its history. It is a blend of cultures. It is a place of luxury. It is a destination that impresses.