Villa Crespi: An Exceptional Luxury Hotel Experience

I’ve stayed in many luxury hotels over the years, but Villa Crespi managed to surprise me.

Not because of its three Michelin stars. Not because of its beautiful lakeside setting. Not even because I found myself standing in a cryotherapy chamber at -95°C.

What surprised me most was how personal the experience felt.

My recent visit to Villa Crespi on the shores of Lake Orta began with an invitation from Silvia Ferrari, whose passion for the property became immediately apparent.

Spending time with Silvia gave me a deeper understanding of what makes this remarkable hotel so special. Behind the stunning architecture, exceptional dining and luxurious wellness facilities lies a team genuinely committed to creating memorable experiences for every guest.

I arrived with my husband and our dog, looking forward to a relaxing weekend away from the pace of daily life. What I discovered was far more than a beautiful hotel.

The first thing that captures your attention is the villa itself. With its distinctive Moorish architecture, elegant tower and rich history, Villa Crespi feels unlike anywhere else in Italy.

Built in 1879 by Cristoforo Benigno Crespi, the property reflects his fascination with the Middle East and remains one of the most unique hotels in the country today.

Yet while the building is impressive, it is the atmosphere that truly leaves an impression. There is a warmth and authenticity here that is increasingly rare in luxury hospitality.

During my stay, I had the opportunity to experience the hotel’s wellness facilities, including its renowned cryotherapy treatment. Having never entered a chamber chilled to -95°C before, I approached the experience with a healthy mix of curiosity and apprehension.

The sensation is difficult to describe. For a few minutes, your body is exposed to an extreme cold that is both invigorating and energising. Emerging from the chamber, I felt refreshed, focused and surprisingly uplifted. It was unlike any wellness treatment I had experienced before and a fascinating addition to Villa Crespi’s holistic approach to wellbeing.

Of course, no visit to Villa Crespi would be complete without acknowledging its culinary reputation.

The hotel is home to the celebrated restaurant of Antonino Cannavacciuolo, one of Italy’s most respected chefs, whose three Michelin stars have made Villa Crespi a destination in its own right for food lovers from around the world.

I was fortunate enough to briefly cross paths with Chef Cannavacciuolo during my stay, a moment that added an extra layer of excitement to the weekend.

What I did not expect, however, was to leave with a gift from his kitchen.

The team kindly presented me with a loaf of bread created under the chef’s direction. It may sound like a simple gesture, but it turned out to be one of the highlights of my visit. Quite simply, it was one of the best breads I have ever tasted.

Perfectly crafted, beautifully textured and full of flavour, it reflected everything Villa Crespi stands for: excellence, attention to detail and a genuine desire to create memorable moments.

Beyond the hotel, Lake Orta provided the perfect setting for a weekend of relaxation. Often overlooked in favour of some of Italy’s more famous lakes, it possesses a quiet elegance that feels wonderfully authentic.

Walking along the lakeside with my husband and our dog, taking in the views and enjoying the slower pace of life, was every bit as memorable as the experiences within the hotel itself.

As someone who spends much of her time visiting destinations and hospitality businesses around the world,

I am fortunate to encounter many exceptional properties. Yet every so often, a place stands out for reasons that are difficult to quantify.

Villa Crespi is one of those places.

Perhaps it is the combination of history, wellness, gastronomy and hospitality.

Perhaps it is the people behind the experience. Or perhaps it is simply the feeling you leave with when you know every detail has been thoughtfully considered.

Whatever the reason, Villa Crespi is a destination I would wholeheartedly recommend.

And yes, if you have the opportunity, don’t leave without trying the bread.

A presto

Micaela