“Il filo” the thread – forms a key theme throughout the Filario hotel. How many times have we heard that Como is the center of the Italian silk industry? We also knew that “filo” in Italian means “thread”. Nevertheless: It was an eye-opener to us when the friendly receptionist at the hotel made us aware of the connection between the silk thread and the hotel’s name. The Filario hotel has its name from “filo” and “lario” (which is the old latin name for the Lake Como).
In fact, the hotel feels smooth like silk. It is very tastefully decorated and the theme of noble local fabrics and materials is visible everywhere. Even the pictures in the Filario are dedicated to the topic: stylish photographs taken by an artist in an old silk factory. The good taste of the hotelier is also evident in the design furniture and we learned that everything was produced by well known Italian furniture brands located in the same area. Local design exactly to our taste!
The hotel owner Alessandro Sironi knows what he’s talking about as he grew up in this area. He values its heritage: “History and tradition formed the basis for shaping a property that offers incredible perspectives on the wishbone-shaped Lake Como”. By adding Italian design and his passion for hotels, he made this a stylish and modern place to stay.
The hotel faces the impressive lake and as soon as we arrive in the generous garage, we forget the narrow and quite adventurous road we had to take from Come in oder to get here. We will however not forget the fantastic views this road has to offer. It took us about an hour to drive from Como to the hotel in Lezzeno. For our next city trip to Como we decide to take the speedboat, which is run like a bus on the lake. It is the faster choice and the car can stay in the cosy and feudal underground parking of the Filario while we slender the streets of Como. No issue with parking guaranteed. That said, the Destination Charger, which can be used at no extra cost, is located at the outdoor parking lot in front of the hotel.
“In prima fila” – situated in the front row of Lake Como
Unfortunately, the beautiful view at the lake was a little clouded given the never-ending rain during our stay. All rooms have a big balcony directly facing the lake and it would have been fantastic to sit outside and enjoy the natural scenery and a little more sunshine. Despite the rainy weather, we could barely take our eyes off the lake and the ever changing pictures of the cloud’s as they reflect on the water surface. Several hotel employees confirmed that even they are still fascinated by the scenery, while they know it for ages.
In summer it must be brilliant! The infinity pool and the private hotel beach make our sun-worshiping hearts beat faster, but with the winter like April temperatures we had to focus on other activities. We just imagined what we would have done here in summer: read a book sitting comfortably in a deckchair, swim in the cool lake, take a stand-up paddle board for a ride or make a boat trip trip to Bellagio – the gem and must-see hotspot which is only 15 minutes away from the hotel.
The famous villas and their associated gardens around the lake (many of them are open to the public) we also had to omit due to the bad weather :-(. Great movies have been shot her, like James Bond Casino Royale at Villa del Balbianello and Villa la Gaeta. But this time Mr T had to leave his taxedo at home. 🙂
Let’s go back to Como
The speedboat was very quick and after only 30 minutes we find ourselves in the middle of the city. The beautiful old town and the impressive cathedral attract quite a lot of tourists from Switzerland, as the Swiss border is only a stone’s throw away. Nevertheless, in Como you are already 100% in Italy. Just take a coffee in one of those small Italien bars and you will know what we mean! Como is also great for shopping, but this time we decide to enjoy our favorite restaurant having home made Spaghetti Vongole. Yes, this is Italy!
Energy made by the Filario
Back at the hotel we take a guided tour through the different room categories. The absolute sensation is the Grand Suite which offers a private on-the-water terrace and plunge pool. We really like the design and as Mrs T hears that yoga retreats have been held here in the past, this may also explain where the positive vibes and energy comes from. 🙂
Talking about energy, the hotel not only relies on local products as far as the interior concept is concerned, but uses local sources for its heating and air conditioning as they use a heat pump system which is linked with the lake. To safe more energy, the heating and air condition in the rooms also only works if all windows are closed. Again, its the small things that can make a big difference and if you have ever seen a silkworm do his work, you know what we are talking about when holding “filo” in your hands the next time.
Yours
Mr & Mrs T
