Villa Crespi, Lake Orta

The hotel is in the beautiful medieval village of Orta San Giulio; the main road to the town is busy, but as soon as you're inside the hotel, it's got a peaceful and secluded feel.

It's a 15-minute walk to the town centre from the hotel.

By plane: London to Milan Malpensa takes under 2 hours and Manchester to Milan Malpensa takes 2 hours 15 minutes, after which, it's an hour's drive to the hotel. Free on-site parking available. Book flights to Milan.

Villa Crespi was originally built in 1870 by cotton merchant Christopher Benigno Crespi. Its design influences are a mixture of Moorish and classic Italian, with a minaret, marble columns and stucco motifs.

Owners Cinzia and Antonino Cannavacciuolo often greet guests personally and are happy to organise activities and excursions, from cooking classes to helicopter tours. Facilities include an excellent restaurant, a bar, pleasant garden and treatments rooms.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Lakeside location
• Spa
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

Rooms and suites are named after Arab princesses. Spacious and elegantly furnished, they come decorated in golds and blues, or pinks and reds. All have four-poster beds and marble bathrooms.

Room types: Classic, Deluxe, Junior Suite, Executive Suite, Premium Suite, Master Suite

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, bathrobes and slippers, hairdryer, TV, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi

Renowned Chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo combines northern and southern Italian flavours to create exquisite dishes - the Inner Spirit tasting menu provides diners with a taste of Cannavacciuolo's cuisine. One of Italy's very best restaurants, each dish is a melt-in-your-mouth explosion of flavours. Enjoy drinks on the terrace overlooking the lake, or in the cosy lounge by the restaurant.

Restaurant: three Michelin-starred restaurant, tasting menu and à la carte options. Open Wed-Sun for lunch and dinner.