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Welcome to the second iteration of Vogue’s global spa guide, an index of the 100 best spas in the world built from the expertise of our global editors and trusted contributors. There is a lot to choose from in the world of wellness, and no matter how far you’re planning to travel—from a subway ride to a transatlantic flight—we want to make sure it’s worth the journey. Whatever your path, let us be your guide.
Why go here?
Tucked away on the shores of Italy’s idyllic Lake Como lies Villa d’Este, which, more than just a grand hotel and accompanying spa, is a portal into Italy’s refined and golden age of hospitality. Originally built in 1568 as a cardinal’s residence, this palatial estate is nothing short of sublime. The entire property oozes old-world charm with a modern slant, and nowhere is that more apparent than in its spa, the aptly named Beauty Center that is the epicenter of Villa d’Este’s wellness experience.
What’s the vibe?
Villa d’Este is unapologetically grand; think gilt-framed oil paintings, classical sculptures, and antique furnishings as the norm. But the spa is a calm, minimalist cocoon within, offering the perfect juxtaposition. Taking an ornate elevator, you descend into a softly lit, green-marble-clad world of wellness. Greeted by a cascading waterfall wall, it acts as an immediate downshift to your nervous system. Expect a serene, almost sacred quiet throughout the space, interrupted only by the occasional clinking of teacups from the herbal-infusions corner. It’s polished and discreet, just as, I imagine, the guests who frequent it prefer it. (I couldn’t help but wonder if George and Amal had graced its orbit.) As general manager Mirko Marchi described it, “the Beauty Center is a deeply sophisticated and relaxing place, perfect for those seeking psychophysical balance and a tranquil environment” (i.e., me).
The history?
Villa d’Este’s storied past adds depth to its allure. From its origins as a 16th-century summer residence for Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio to its transformation into a luxury hotel in the 19th century, the property has been a symbol of luxury travel for centuries. During that time, it passed through aristocratic hands before being acquired by Caroline of Brunswick, the scandal-prone wife of King George IV who renamed it Villa d’Este and introduced English-style regal gardens. In 1873 it opened as a hotel and swiftly became a magnet for high society. Guests have included Mark Twain, Greta Garbo, and Alfred Hitchcock, who filmed parts of his first movie, The Pleasure Garden, here.
What should you try?
When it comes to spa offerings, go straight to the results-focused option: The Dermolift is a firming, sculpting facial that yields pretty much instantaneous results. For the body, opt for the Detoxifying Himalayan Salt Wrap, which simultaneously soothes muscle tension and stimulates circulation. Don’t miss the hydrotherapy circuit, which oscillates hot and cold water therapy and is all the rage, nor a posttreatment nap by the indoor pool, which is almost as essential. Biologique Recherche Beauty hosted a pop-up in 2024 offering its signature famed treatments, which are still available on request.
How environmentally friendly is it?
Villa d’Este may be a centuries-old estate, but its commitment to sustainability is thoroughly modern. The spa uses local spring water filtered through eco-conscious methods, and the products both in the spa and throughout the property—whether botanical oils or marine extracts—are chosen with care. The hotel’s kitchens also work closely with Lombardy’s organic growers, meaning even your breakfast yogurt and honey are traceable and responsibly sourced.
What else do we need to know?
The seasonal wellness programming is particularly worth noting: Bespoke retreat packages during spring and autumn focus on immunity, longevity, and stress reduction, combining spa treatments with yoga, Nordic walking, and nutritionally optimized menus. And for those chasing balance, the iconic floating pool on Lake Como isn’t just for Instagram; it offers a literal immersion in nature’s therapeutic effects, best enjoyed early in the morning when the mist still hugs the water.
Food-wise, order the lake fish ceviche at Veranda, one of the on-site restaurants. The chef is deeply passionate about wellness gastronomy; expect dishes that are light, elegant, and locally attuned. And if you’re a wine lover, don’t skip the sommelier-led tastings in the wine cellar, which cleverly thread the needle between indulgence and education (wellness is all about balance, after all).
Who can go?
The Beauty Center is open to all guests of the hotel, and treatments can be booked à la carte or as part of multiday programs. Nonguests can access the spa with special advance permission. If you’re not staying on-site, it’s worth calling ahead; Villa d’Este takes discretion and exclusivity seriously, which is one of its main selling points.
Booking details for Villa d’Este
Address: Via Regina, 40, 22012 Cernobbio CO, Italy
Read more from Vogue’s Global Spa Guide.