Hotel Review: Borgo Le Terrazze, Lake Como

If you've travelled to the lake seeking spectacular views, look no further: this aparthotel has a gorgeous location on a hillside south of Bellagio, offering divine panoramic vistas. Quiet and peaceful, tucked away from the hubbub of Bellagio, it's the perfect choice if you're looking to escape the crowds. The lake's major sights are within easy reach.

By plane: direct flights from London (under 2 hours) and Manchester (2 hours 15 minutes) to Milan Malpensa. The hotel is a 1 hour 30-minute drive from the airport. Free on-site parking available. Book flights to Milan.

Cleverly built with the lake panorama in mind, west-facing rooms look out towards the water. The décor echoes the colours of the lake, with greens, blues and browns in the communal areas, soft pastel tones in the rooms and large windows allowing for plenty of light. Olive trees and azaleas dot the garden.

Staff are friendly and helpful, and will go out of their way to assist. There's an attractive swimming pool offering wonderful lake views, bike storage and a free shuttle bus to Bellagio - perfect to nip out for an evening meal or to head to the pier to catch the boat across to the western shore.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Garden
• Swimming pool
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

All rooms have outdoor areas. They're decked out in neutral tones and laminated parquet floors, with walls adorned with botanical prints. No two rooms are the same; some have floral wallpaper, others cream-coloured beds and olive-green walls. Contemporary bathrooms have rain showers.

Room types: Classic, Junior Suite, Suite Carlotta, Suite Bellagio, Suite Borgo, Family, Superior Suite, Apartment, Studio

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, private terrace, tea and coffee-maker, free Wi-Fi

There's an all-day menu with light dishes (pastas, sandwiches, platters of cold cuts and cheeses) that can be enjoyed poolside. The hotel's location is particularly evocative when the sun sets. You can sip drinks by the pool or on the panoramic terrace as you watch the sun paint the sky pink. The simple continental breakfast includes cereal, fruits, cold cuts, cheeses and eggs.

Bar & Bistrot: Local wines, aperitifs, snacks and pastas. Mains from €7.