Italy, Lake Orta – Villa Crespi

Lying on the shores of romantic Lake Orta, Villa Crespi is a dream come true. The villa was originally called Villa Pia, named by Cristoforo Benigno Crespi, a pioneer of the Italian cotton industry. The construction work was entrusted to the architect Angelo Colla to whom Benigno Crespi left carte blanche, allowing him to express the very best of himself and his passion for decorative detail while highlighting the middle eastern character Crespi desired.

Over the course of time, a series of owners have held Villa Crespi, and when the Marquis Fracassi of Torre Rossano acquired it in the 1930's, it became an exclusive place for visits by poets, nobles and kings, well-known all over Northern Europe.

Now managed by Cinzia and Antonino, the villa and their staff convey the philosophy of the Relais & Châteaux family, making an experience at Villa Crespi a journey of the senses dedicated to the wellbeing of the guest.

Hotel Review

Inspired by Baghdad’s architecture, built in a private villa on the shores of native Lake Orta. This is one of the reasons I loved staying at Villa Crespi. The interiors resemble an emir’s palace, with intricate handmade stucco motifs and marble columns (think Arabian nights!).

Intricate detail at the Villa Crespi

The front desk staff were very friendly and greeted us warmly every day. They were exemplary in helping us arrange any travel to and from the hotel for us when we ventured elsewhere for dinners and sightseeing. We even got the chance to meet the owners (Cinzia and Antonino Cannavacciuolo) who were very friendly and it really made us feel welcome. Read the full review here…