Most travelers visit the Italian province of Como for, well, Lake Como. However, that’s not the only lake in town. Travelers craving a more underrated, less crowded experience should consider the equally idyllic albeit smaller Lake Lugano — 60% of which is in Italy, 40% of which is in Switzerland. When it comes to accommodations here, visitors can take their pick of five-star stays, such as the boutique ARIA Retreat & Spa. Keep reading for our review of this intimate hotel, where incredible lake and mountain views are the star of the show.
The Look of ARIA Retreat & Spa
Located within the expansive Parco San Marco Hotels & Beach Resort along the shores of Lake Lugano, ARIA Retreat & Spa feels like your very own private escape. In fact, guests access the surrounding resort through an enchanting 164-foot-long underground tunnel.
Spanning three stories, the luxury hotel-within-a-resort stands out for its contemporary architecture and striking facade featuring glass windows that put the lake and mountain views front and center. Just off the lobby is the expansive adults-only Spa CEò, equipped with several saunas, a hammam, and more, which we’ll get into later. The other common spaces are equally stunning and serene, including the 1,400-square-foot indoor pool that’s surrounded by expansive windows, an outdoor infinity pool with sprawling mountain views, and three drinking and dining venues. The main restaurant, La Musa Restaurant and Rooftop Terrace, offers an impressive wine list in an elegant setting, while the Dolce Vita Lounge and Restaurant, which has its own private terrace overlooking the lake, has a more casual vibe — and is a prime spot for aperitivos. Last but not least is the La Joie de Vivre restaurant in the main building of Parco San Marco, which features a large copy of Picasso’s eponymously named painting in the dining room.
Accommodations take the form of sumptuous, sun-drenched suites, of which there are just 15. Each offers luxe amenities like private entrances, spacious private outdoor spaces, and soaking tub-equipped bathrooms with marble walls. Select units offer living rooms and kitchens. Overall, the suites’ effortlessly cool aesthetic could be straight out of an Architectural Digest spread.
The Vibe at ARIA Retreat & Spa
Since ARIA Retreat & Spa houses just 15 suites, the staff truly takes the time to get to know each and every guest. Expect warm greetings, superior service, and an overall relaxed, sophisticated vibe — that is, sans any stuffiness.
Who Will Love ARIA Retreat & Spa
Families with older children, along with couples craving a romantic, wellness-centric stay, will especially love this luxury boutique hotel thanks to its spacious accommodations and world-class spa.
Who Might Not Love ARIA Retreat & Spa
Families with younger children might want to seek alternate accommodations within the Parco San Marco Hotels & Beach Resort, which offers kids’ clubs and a slew of child-centric activities. While ARIA Retreat & Spa does welcome guests ages three and up, the facilities are geared towards adults; the spa is adults-only, while the pools, bars, and restaurants are reserved for those ages 16 and up.
Best Amenity at ARIA Retreat & Spa
Spanning over 16,000 square feet, the aforementioned Spa CEò is a highlight for its state-of-the-art facilities, including several saunas, a variety of pools, a cold cabin, a small gym, and ample space to lounge in style. We’d also be remiss not to mention the outdoor park, which is dotted with a slew of sculptures and installations.
What’s Included at ARIA Retreat & Spa
Your stay includes access to the pools, spa and fitness center, and the on-site restaurants and bars. Wi-Fi and breakfast are also complimentary.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that ARIA Retreat & Spa guests also have access to Parco San Marco Resort restaurants, bars, and facilities, including 3,200-plus square feet of private beach, kids’ clubs, a water park, water sports, a climbing wall, and sports like tennis and beach volleyball.
Extra Fees & Costs You Should Know About at ARIA Retreat & Spa
Spa treatments cost extra, as does golfing at the nearby Menaggio & Cadenabbia Golf Club, which the hotel partners with.
How to Get a Deal at ARIA Retreat & Spa
Check out the offers tab on the property’s website to browse themed packages and deals.
The Sweet Season
The months of May through September coincide with the destinations’ high season, which is when you’ll find the highest hotel rates. That said, consider visiting any other time of year to snag cheaper prices on lodging and airfare.
In the Neighborhood of ARIA Retreat & Spa
As previously mentioned, the lakefront ARIA Retreat & Spa is situated within the sprawling Parco San Marco Resort complex, where everything you could want or need is right on site. Within a 15-minute drive of the hotel, you’ll find the Menaggio & Cadenabbia Golf Club plus scenic spots like Monte Bronzone and Monte dei Pizzoni and plenty of hiking trails.
Nearest Airport to ARIA Retreat & Spa
Milan Malpensa Airport is 58 miles away, or 75 minutes by car.
Nearest Public Transportation to ARIA Retreat & Spa
The Cima, San Marco bus stop is about a 10-minute walk from the hotel.
For a luxe, wellness-centric stay along one of Italy’s most gorgeous and underrated lakes, the all-suite ARIA Retreat & Spa takes the cake.