Escape to Paradise: Essentia Guest House, Lake Como's Hidden Gem
Escape to Paradise: Essentia Guest House - My Lake Como Love Affair (and a Few Hiccups)
Okay, so Lake Como. Just the name conjures images of Clooney, shimmering water, and impossibly chic villas. And Essentia Guest House? Well, let's just say it mostly lived up to the hype. This isn't your sterile, corporate hotel review. This is me, spilling the (very strong, Italian) tea.
(Metadata Time! Because… SEO. And because I want this to be the first thing that pops up when someone Googles "Lake Como hidden gem"!)
- Keywords: Essentia Guest House, Lake Como, Italy, Boutique Hotel, Wheelchair Accessible, Spa, Swimming Pool, Restaurant, Free Wi-Fi, Luxury Hotel, Romantic Getaway, Disabled Accessible, Family Friendly, Reviews, Best Hotels
- Meta Description: Discover Essentia Guest House, a hidden gem on Lake Como! Read our candid review of this luxurious, wheelchair-accessible boutique hotel, from its stunning pool to its amazing food and everything in between. Honest opinions, real experiences.
First Impressions: Arrival & the "Almost Perfect" Vibe
Finding Essentia was a bit of an adventure. Not quite "Indiana Jones," but more like "Lost Tourist in Italy," especially since my GPS seemed to have a vendetta against me. But finally, bam! There it was – a gorgeous building, draped in bougainvillea, overlooking the lake. Stunning. Absolutely stunning. The front desk staff were lovely - genuinely welcoming, despite my slightly frazzled appearance (a big plus after my GPS debacle). They spoke great English, which was a massive relief, my Italian is… well, let's just say I know how to order a pizza.
Accessibility - A Mixed Bag, Sadly
This is where things get a little… messy, and not in a good way. Essentia advertises accessibility, and to a degree, it’s true. The elevator was a godsend, and getting around the main areas (reception, restaurant) was pretty smooth. Access and Facilities for disabled guests are listed which is great, but…
Here's the thing: I went with my friend who uses a wheelchair, and while the public areas were accessible, the rooms themselves weren’t fully adapted. The bathroom wasn’t ideal, the additional toilet was a bonus for us since we got a couple's room, but wheelchair accessible felt more like "wheelchair friendly" than "completely accessible." They tried, bless their hearts - and the staff always offered help – but there's still some work to do. This is a serious area for improvement, and for anyone with mobility needs, double-check the specific room details before booking. I would have been furious if I’d booked a room for my friend without inquiring properly. Exterior corridor and elevator are listed which are assets in terms of accessibility.
The Relax Factor: Spa Days, Pool Views, and Pure Bliss (Mostly)
Okay, let’s get back to the good stuff. The pool with a view? Absolutely breathtaking. Seriously, photo-op heaven. I’m a sucker for a good swimming pool [outdoor], and this one delivered. The Sauna, Spa, and Steamroom were all top-notch, the massage was heavenly. Pure, unadulterated relaxation. I indulged in a Body scrub and a Body wrap too – because, why not? My skin felt like silk. I wish I had tried the foot bath, but I felt I needed to use the time for the pool. I am missing a fitness center, but I did use the gym/fitness. I mean I’m not a bodybuilder but I like some cardio machines to stay motivated. The Spa/sauna was a nice touch.
Things to Do (Besides Lounging by the Pool):
Besides the obvious lounging, there was plenty to keep us occupied. The hotel arranged a fantastic boat tour of the lake (absolutely essential!), and there were lovely little towns to explore nearby. I'd have loved to have tried a bicycle but I am told that it's not worth it.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: A Food Lover's Paradise (Mostly)
The food at Essentia was a definite highlight. The restaurant offered a mix of local and international cuisine. I'm a sucker for Asian cuisine in restaurant, and I was delighted! The Breakfast [buffet] was a feast – pastries galore, fresh fruit, and enough coffee to fuel a small army. They also had Western breakfast. I had a craving for pizza, and the a la carte in restaurant was amazing. The bottle of water for each guest was a great touch.
The Poolside bar was perfect for aperitivo hour. The Happy hour was a bargain, and the cocktails were expertly crafted. I may have over-indulged on the Negronis… don't judge me, I was on vacation! They offer alternative meal arrangement, which I found great, and I loved the desserts in the restaurant. The Coffee/tea in restaurant was also a great touch.
There's a snack bar, but I didn't get around to using it. I did order some room service [24-hour] late one night – a simple pasta dish, but it hit the spot after a long day of exploring. They have Asian breakfast and Soup in restaurant. The only bummer was that the vegetarian restaurant was not at the hotel, and I had to leave the property every night since my friend is a vegetarian.
Cleanliness and Safety: Pandemic Considerations
This is where Essentia really shines. During these, let's face it, slightly bonkers times, they took cleanliness seriously. Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer everywhere, and staff wearing masks. They’re even using anti-viral cleaning products. It felt safe and secure. I didn't opt for Room sanitization opt-out available. They have really great Hygiene certification. There was also Physical distancing of at least 1 meter. They also provided Hand sanitizer. I felt great, so it must have worked!
Rooms: Comfort & Style (with a few quirks)
My room was stunning. Non-smoking rooms are available, this is great. I loved the blackout curtains, the slippers, the bathrobes, and the complimentary tea. The air conditioning worked a treat (essential in the Italian summer). The bathroom was modern, but I wasn’t a huge fan of the shower setup – a bit cramped, to be honest. The bed was comfortable, but not the extra-long bed. I had some issue with the window that open, and I am grateful that they included a smoke alarm.
The Imperfections:
- The Wi-Fi: Even though they boasted Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! and Internet access – wireless, it was patchy at times. I ended up spending more time than I wanted to just waiting for the connection. This needs serious improvement.
- The Noise: Because of the way the building is designed, you could sometimes hear the conversations in the hallways.
- The Price: It's a luxury hotel, no question. Be prepared to pay a premium.
Services and Conveniences: A Mixed Bag
- Air conditioning in public area, Concierge, Daily housekeeping, Elevator, Luggage storage, Safety deposit boxes are all great.
- Cash withdrawal, Cashless payment service, Contactless check-in/out, and Doorman are great.
- I missed a convenience store, I love to grab a drink or a snack after a long day.
- I did like the Car park [free of charge]
Overall:
Essentia Guest House is a beautiful hotel, oozing charm and offering a genuinely luxurious experience. The location on Lake Como is breathtaking, the spa and pool are a dream, and the food is delicious. However, the accessibility limitations need addressing, and the Wi-Fi situation needs a serious overhaul. Despite the minor drawbacks, I would absolutely recommend Essentia for a romantic getaway or a special occasion. Just make sure to clarify accessibility needs before booking, and maybe bring a good book for those internet-free moments! As for me? I'm already plotting my return. Maybe next time, I'll try to learn a few more Italian phrases. And definitely order more Negronis. Cheers!
Munich's Hidden Gem: Holzl Grunwald Apartment Hotel - Unbeatable Luxury!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups. This isn't your sanitized, perfectly-planned travel guide. This is a diary of a gloriously messy, probably slightly disastrous, but ultimately beautiful trip to Essentia Guest House in Faggeto Lario, Italy. Prepare for tangents, gripes, and the occasional existential crisis… all nestled amongst the stunning backdrop of Lake Como.
Essentia Guest House: My Italian Fiasco (and Maybe a Little Bliss)
Day 1: Arrival and Existential Dread (aka, "Where Did I Park My Sanity?")
- Morning (Maybe before noon? Jet lag is a cruel mistress): Arrive at Milan Malpensa Airport. Immediately realize I packed way too much. My suitcase weighs more than my emotional stability. Drag it through the echoing airport, channeling my inner Atlas. Find the train to Como. It was surprisingly easy (a small victory!).
- Mid-day (The "Oh Crap, I'm Actually Doing This" Phase): The train ride? Utterly glorious. Lake Como slowly unfurls its shimmering beauty. Mountains hug the water, tiny villages cling to the slopes. I feel a sudden, overwhelming urge to write a novel about star-crossed lovers and gelato cravings. (Spoiler alert: I probably won't write anything.)
- Afternoon (The Great Luggage Hunt): The train arrives in Como. Now, the real adventure begins. I get a taxi that is smaller than I thought it would be. My suitcase, once again, is a problem. The driver (bless his patience) manages to cram it in. The drive to Faggeto Lario is winding, breathtaking, and makes me carsick. I have a sudden, intense fear of heights. We arrive at Essentia Guest House. It's even more charming in person. The view from the balcony – Holy Mother of God. It's a postcard come to life.
- Evening (The "I Need Food and Wine. NOW" Stage): Check-in. The owner, with her warm smile and heavily accented English, is an angel. I nearly weep with gratitude. Settle into my room, which is quaint and lovely. The internet is… spotty. Fine. I’ll detox from the digital world. Stumble into the town for dinner, navigating cobblestone streets that seem deliberately designed to trip me. The first restaurant I try is closed "for the season," (I later find the season is summer and it's currently October). Second place it is! The food is simple, hearty, and tastes like sunshine. A glass (or two) of local wine… let's just say, I'm starting to forget the weight of my suitcase.
- Night (Pure, Unadulterated Wonder mixed with a heavy dose of "What Have I Done?"): Back to Essentia. The lake shimmers under the moonlight. Crack open a bottle of wine on the balcony. This is it. This is what I’ve been craving. Suddenly, I feel homesick. And then, it passes again. It’s an emotional rollercoaster, but the view is worth it. I decide to live. I vow to learn some simple Italian phrases. I fail. I fall into a deep, wine-induced sleep.
Day 2: Lake Como, Lost in Translation, and a Gelato-Fueled Revelation
- Morning (The "I Should Probably Function Now" Phase): Wander around Faggeto Lario. Attempt to find a coffee shop. Fail. Decide to walk down to the lake. Absolutely stunning. Start feeling very under-prepared for everything.
- Mid-day (Embracing Imperfection - Very Messy. And Sticky.): Take a ferry to Bellagio. I get horribly lost trying to buy a ferry ticket. It's a comedy of errors, involving frantic hand gestures, mangled Italian pronunciation, and a very patient ticket agent. Bellagio is beautiful, but the crowds are… intense. Decide to retreat to a quieter spot. Accidentally order the wrong sandwich. Eat it anyway. It’s delicious.
- Afternoon (The "Gelato Therapy" Session): Find a gelato shop. It is a turning point. It's the most perfect, creamy, heaven-sent gelato I’ve ever tasted. I buy another. And another. My jeans are getting tighter. I don't care. This is pure bliss. I sit by the lake. Watch the little boats go by. Forget about my worries.
- Evening (The "I Have Become a Local" Fantasy): Back in Faggeto Lario. Find a tiny trattoria. The owner, a gruff but kind-hearted man, attempts to teach me some basic Italian. We have a spirited conversation involving pointing, gesturing, and a lot of laughter. I order pasta. It’s perfect. I’ve decided to become Italian. Tomorrow.
- Night (The "I AM Going to Nap" Phase): Back at Essentia. Watch the sunset. It paints the sky in fiery hues. The lake is tranquil. I start reading, then fall asleep.
Day 3: Hiking, Hiking, and a Whole Lot of "Whoops"
- Morning (The "Maybe I Can Be Outdoorsy, Maybe" Phase): Decide to go for a hike. Consult some maps. Head off into the hills. Instantly get lost. The path is poorly marked. Struggle up a steep incline. Feel my age. Feel the burn. Realize I didn't pack water. Or appropriate shoes.
- Mid-day (The "Survivor" Mode): Discover an abandoned ruin. It's crumbling and overgrown. Feel an absurd urge to live a simpler life. Decide to embrace the 'lost-ness' and enjoy the view.
- Afternoon (The "Water, Please God, Just Water" Stage): Find a tiny village. Stop at a café. Order water. Down it in one gulp. The owner of the cafe is a beautiful woman. She's wearing a big straw hat. She barely speaks English, but somehow, we manage to understand each other. She gives me a piece of cake. It’s the best cake I’ve ever had.
- Evening (The "I Survived!" Celebration): Back at Essentia. Dinner at a restaurant again. I'm starting to recognize the faces of the staff in the restaurant. They're starting to recognize that I order too much.
- Night (The "Reflecting on the Day's Adventures" Phase): On the balcony. Feeling the joy. Feeling the pain. I do love this place. I'm thankful. I need to go home. I don't want to go home.
Day 4: Departure (With a Heavy Heart and a Lighter Suitcase… Maybe)
- Morning (The "Goodbye, Beautiful Place" Blues): Wake up. Pack my now-slightly-smaller luggage. Have a last coffee on the balcony and gaze at the lake. Get very sad. The owner of Essentia Guest House gives me a hug. Tears. Real ones. I want to stay.
- Mid-day (The "Train Ride of the Soul" Phase): Taxi to the train station. The journey back to Milan. Watch the scenery fly by. Contemplate the meaning of life. Buy a magazine I can't read.
- Afternoon (The "Airport Mayhem" Finale): Airport. Security lines. Over-priced sandwiches. Suddenly, I miss the chaos of the train station.
- Evening (The "Homeward Bound" Anxiety): Board the plane. It’s bumpy. I write notes. I fall asleep.
Final Thoughts:
This trip wasn't perfect. I was lost. I was stressed. I ate too much gelato. But, it was real. It was raw. It was Italian. It was beautiful. Essentia Guest House and Lake Como, or the "Italian Fiasco" have truly become a part of me. I'll be back. And next time, I’ll pack more comfortable shoes, learn a few real Italian phrases, and maybe, just maybe, try to embrace the beautiful messiness of life. And, you know what? I’m gonna order even more gelato.
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Okay, spill the tea. Is Essentia Guest House REALLY a "hidden gem" or just another Instagram trap?
What's the *actual* vibe like? Is it all hushed whispers and pretentious art?
The breakfast...is it worth the hype (and the potential food coma)?
Lake Como, though! What if I’m not a glamorous socialite ready to be photographed on a yacht?
Any hidden costs or unpleasant surprises I should know about?
Tell me about the rooms! Are they as dreamy as they look in the photos? (Or, is that the Instagram filter working its magic?)
My biggest fear: awkward interactions with other guests. What's it like socializing there?
Would you go back? And what would you do differently next time?
