Villa Crespi is a boutique hotel and restaurant located in the picturesque village of Orta San Giulio, situated on the banks of Lake Orta in northern Italy. The striking Moorish-style building was constructed in the late 19th century by wealthy cotton merchant Cristoforo Crespi, who had been inspired by the palaces he had seen during his travels in the Middle East.
Today, the villa has been transformed into a luxury hotel and restaurant by the acclaimed chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo, who bought the property in 1999 and renovated it with the help of architectural firm Studio Vudafieri Saverino Partners. The result is a stunning blend of traditional Arabesque motifs, contemporary Italian design, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The hotel features 14 rooms and suites, each decorated with elegant furnishings, rich fabrics, and handcrafted details. Many of the rooms offer views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, while others overlook the hotel’s lush gardens. The suites are particularly spacious, with separate living areas and private terraces. All accommodations include amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi.
The villa’s two restaurants are helmed by Cannavacciuolo, who has earned two Michelin stars for his innovative Mediterranean cuisine. The first restaurant, L’Orangerie, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in an intimate setting overlooking the gardens. The second restaurant, Antonino Cannavacciuolo at Villa Crespi, is housed in the villa’s stately dining room, where guests can enjoy opulent multi-course meals inspired by traditional Italian and regional dishes. The restaurant also features an extensive wine list showcasing the best Italian and international vintages.
In addition to its gastronomic offerings, Villa Crespi also boasts a wellness center, where guests can unwind in the sauna, Turkish bath, or hot tub, or indulge in a massage or other beauty treatments. The hotel’s lush gardens offer a peaceful retreat for rest and relaxation, with fountains, plantings, and shaded seating areas. Guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s private beach, where they can swim, kayak, or simply soak up the sun.
Overall, Villa Crespi is a unique and unforgettable destination that combines history, beauty, and world-class hospitality. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a gastronomic adventure, or a wellness retreat, this extraordinary hotel and restaurant is sure to exceed your expectations.