7 things to know about Passalacqua, the best hotel in the world according to 50 Best
And the winner is…
Wondering what is the best hotel in the world this year? On the 19th of September, a panel of over 580 travel journalists, luxury travel experts, and hoteliers congregated in London’s Guildhall to pick The World’s 50 Best Hotels, and Passalacqua in Lake Como emerged victorious. Passalacqua isn’t a sprawling international chain. It’s a charming boutique property nestled on the shores of Italy’s Lake Como. Valentina De Santis, the daughter of the local hotelier De Santis family, played a pivotal role in crafting each aspect of this award-winning gem, ensuring that every detail reflects her passion and dedication to hospitality. Here are seven things to know about the best hotel in the world for 2023.
1. Passalacqua has 24 exquisitely designed suites in a prime location
Photo credit: Passalacqua on Booking.com
The family-run hotel comprises 24 individually designed suites, each a testament to grand Italian baroque style while remaining understatedly sophisticated. The property is divided into three distinct buildings, each with its own unique character. Whether you stay in the main villa, the converted stables, or the lakeside villa, you’ll find yourself enveloped in exquisite surroundings.
Passalacqua enjoys a prime location on the eternally enthralling Lake Como. The property’s history is equally captivating, having been built on land once owned by Pope Innocent XI. Additionally, it was previously the residence of renowned operatic composer Vincenzo Bellini, who dreamt up Norma and La Sonnambula right there.
2. A unique ‘vivere Italiano’ experience is on offer
Photo credit: Passalacqua on Booking.com
When Valentina De Santis opened Passalacqua in June 2022, she introduced guests to a unique ‘vivere italiano’ experience. From gelato-making to flower-arranging classes, Passalacqua offers daily activities that immerse guests in Italian culture, ensuring a memorable and immersive stay. From exquisite Murano glass chandeliers to 20 different types of marble used in the bathrooms, the hotel is a testament to Italian craftsmanship and luxury.
3. There are gorgeous gardens and amenities
Photo credit: Passalacqua on Booking.com
Passalacqua’s extensive seven-acre terraced gardens provide an oasis of serenity. The lush landscape features 15 water fountains and various surprises, including free-roaming chickens for guests to collect fresh eggs should they so desire. The property also offers an al-fresco gym, bocce court, olive grove, tennis court, and an enchanting spa located in 18th-century tunnels under the hotel.
4. It is the first winner of this award
Passalacqua took the crown during the inaugural hotel ranking from the 50 Best organization, which is known for its long-standing “The World’s 50 Best Restaurants” and “The World’s 50 Best Bars” rankings. The esteemed panel, comprised of international travel tastemakers, was tasked with selecting their top seven hotels from the past two years, with a maximum of three from one hotel group. Any hotel, regardless of size or location, could be nominated.
5. It has a stunning sister property
Nestled on Lake Como’s western shores, the Grand Hotel Tremezzo is an Art Nouveau gem that’s also owned by the De Santis family. It presents guests with opulent lodgings, three pools, an exclusive lakeside beach, and a lush private park, all while embracing the finest Italian hospitality. The views stretch across the sparkling waters towards Bellagio and the majestic Grigne mountains.
6. Passalacqua had stiff competition
The boutique property earned the prestigious title of The World’s Best Hotel 2023 and bested larger, established hotel names such as Rosewood Hong Kong, Upper House Hong Kong, and Aman Tokyo, which ranked second to fifth on the list.
7. Passalacqua is no stranger to famous faces and names
Photo credit: Passalacqua on Booking.com
The opulent, history-steeped property has welcomed luminaries like Napoleon Bonaparte and passed through various hands since its 18th-century construction. A 2018 Sotheby’s auction passed the torch to the De Santis family, and previous owners include a Hungarian anthropologist and an Estonian baroness. Today, it’s one of the most elegant boutique hotels you can book in Europe, and according to 50 Best, the best hotel in the world.
