We stayed 4 nights/5 days at Hotel Olivedo in the village of Varenna, Lake Como. What a beautiful experience! Our room was on the 3rd floor with fantastic views of the lake and town from 2 balconies. Yes, there is an elevator. The room and bathroom are updated and very comfortable. We noticed the windows all looked new so the room is very quiet.
The Food: Breakfast is wonderful with omelettes, fresh fruit, meats & cheese, baked goods and drinks. We ate lunch and dinner at many other restaurants, not realizing until the last that Hotel Olivedo's restaurant was the best of our dining experience. The lamb chops were better than those I had in Milano a few days later. I also listened to comments from tables around us. People spoke of how wonderful their dishes were.
Location: How fun! Hotel Olivedo is located in front of the ferry station. Easy access for travel to other villages, plus the Best people watching from the Cafe!
The Owners: Hotel Olivedo is not a hotel with owners in another city or country. This is a 3rd generation, family owned, beautiful hotel. At the front desk, or helping to serve in the restaurant, or with his chefs jacket on in the kitchen, you will find the son, Luigi, who is masterfully learning all of the family business. Then there is Giuseppe, the father, who is Head Chef and creates all these marvelous dishes. Titti is the mom, and makes you feel like part of the family. I can't even guess all that Titti does. She is everywhere, working all the time, but always has a big smile and a wonderful greeting for you every time she sees you.
The Staff: Those that I got to know are Franchesca, Enzo, and Stephano. 5 Stars to each of them! They go out of their way to make sure you are very well cared for. Our experiences around Lake Como were our favorite above Milano, Venice, and Verona. It is everyone at Hotel Olivedo that added so much in making Varenna so memorable. read more