Lake Como has always drawn people who value beauty, privacy, and timeless charm. Villa Pliniana story stretches back over 440 years, and it is exactly that kind of place. Unlike many awards decided by panels or marketing clout, the Haute Grandeur Global Excellence recognition comes directly from the guests who have stayed here themselves.
Managed by Sereno Hotels, the villa sits in one of the most dramatic spots on the lake, with cascading waterfalls, terraced gardens, and carefully preserved period details. Over the centuries, it has grown into a retreat that feels lived-in and alive, yet completely private. With room for up to 39 guests across multiple residences, it works equally well for intimate escapes or large gatherings.
A Renaissance Estate, Reimagined
The main villa contains four apartments and ten bedrooms, complemented by two standalone villas with a further seven rooms, comfortably hosting up to 39 guests. Every corner of the estate has been curated for comfort, elegance, and privacy.
Reception rooms flow effortlessly into outdoor terraces, inviting morning coffee by the lake or evening aperitivos under the Italian sun. The villa’s layout is as flexible as it is beautiful, easily accommodating intimate retreats, family stays, or large-scale celebrations.
A standalone spa occupies a privileged lakeside spot, with a heated pool overlooking the water, a sauna, steam bath, fully equipped fitness room, and a solarium perfect for soaking up the Italian sun. A quiet relaxation lounge encourages guests to slow down, read, or simply watch the lake stretch before them.
Designed to operate independently from the main villa, the spa allows guests to maintain wellness routines or enjoy treatments without disrupting others’ activities. It’s one of those subtle touches that make extended stays feel effortless, whether for family holidays, a wellness escape, or multi-day celebrations.
Celebrations Steeped in History
Villa Pliniana has long been celebrated as one of Italy’s most iconic wedding and event venues. Its panoramic setting, once inspiring literary greats such as Byron, Shelley, and Stendhal, continues to captivate artists, families, and cultural tastemakers today.
Multi-day celebrations unfold effortlessly, from welcome dinners on sun-dappled terraces to farewell brunches with the lake as a backdrop. The villa’s exclusive-use model guarantees complete privacy, while professional kitchens, technical facilities, and the Sereno Hotels team’s meticulous service ensure every detail from the grandest gesture to the smallest touch is perfectly executed.
“This recognition from the Haute Grandeur Global Excellence Awards celebrates the essence of Villa Pliniana — a property where centuries of history meet contemporary luxury. It is a tribute to our team’s dedication and to the timeless magic of Lake Como that continues to inspire every guest who stays with us.” Claudio Cadeddu, Chief Commercial Officer, Sereno Hotels
Arriving in style
Getting to Villa Pliniana is part of the experience. Sereno Hotels provides custom-crafted Riva boats for moving across the lake in style, while a private helipad allows direct transfers to Milan, nearby mountain resorts, or international airports.
The team quietly manages all logistics in the background, letting arrivals and departures flow naturally, leaving visitors free to settle in and start their stay on their own terms.
Luxury Recognised by Those Who Experience It
The Haute Grandeur Global Excellence Awards are based entirely on guest feedback, meaning the recognition reflects genuine experiences. For Villa Pliniana, the Best Villa in Europe title validates the estate’s careful attention to every aspect of service from housekeeping and concierge support to the subtle orchestration that makes shared stays feel personal and effortless. Competing against Europe’s finest estates, and within Lake Como’s highly competitive luxury market, the accolade carries real significance.
Villa Pliniana demonstrates how historic properties can evolve gracefully without losing their character. Through thoughtful modernisation, considered design, and attentive service, it remains both relevant and timeless.