Villa Crespi

Like much of Southern Europe, Italy is adorned with opulent villas. But Villa Crespi is different. The extraordinary villa dates back to 1879 and has been wooing poets, nobles and rulers for centuries. The villa even has its own minaret inspired by the fascinating architecture of Baghdad. Start your day with a continental breakfast overlooking the lush gardens followed by a pampering body treatment in the wellness suite. Request afternoon tea service on the terrace while you soak up the lake view. Dining at Villa Crespi is a must. The two Michelin-starred restaurant serves a harmonious fusion of Italian cuisine. Sweet dreams await in the fairytale-like rooms. Think Arabian Nights meets modern luxury.

A stay at the villa isn't complete without a one-of-a-kind experience. Get a glimpse into what goes on behind the scenes while sous-chefs prepare three dishes before your eyes. Ask them questions, take notes on the recipes, listen to their stories of life in celebrity chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo's kitchen and learn their secrets. For a charming day out, explore the fascinating medieval village of Orta, its villas and cobbled streets, and admire the views of the lake from the street cafés. Take a boat with your own personal guide over to the island where you will walk around the Way of Silence, so-called for the closed order of Benedictine nuns living there, and see the amazing frescoes and rare stone pulpit going back almost a thousand years. And there's nothing quite like the indulgence of afternoon tea, a British tradition in the heart of the Italian Lakes, with a selection of the finest Indian and Chinese teas and infusions to accompany delicacies both sweet and savory.