Marriott has signed an agreement to bring The Ritz-Carlton brand to Italy, starting with a conversion of the former Hotel Grande Bretagne in Bellagio on Lake Como.
Slated to open in 2026, the waterfront property will offer 59 guestrooms and 46 suites, including two Ritz-Carlton suites, featuring views of the lake and luxurious furnishings.
Resort facilities are anticipated to include a destination spa complete with an indoor pool, casual and fine dining restaurants, and state-of-the-art meeting and event facilities. Extensive parkland and gardens will reflect the typical landscaping of the country's Lombardy region and are expected to feature a meditation garden, historical walking trail, large outdoor swimming pool, and private boat dock to allow guests effortless access to other renowned destinations on the lake.
"Lake Como is the jewel in the crown of the Italian Lake district and we can think of no better destination to debut The Ritz-Carlton brand in Italy. This incredible development showcases our commitment to thoughtfully growing our iconic brand in destinations where we know our guests want to travel most." said Donna McNamara, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, The Ritz-Carlton.
Situated just outside the village of Bellagio, which sits on a promontory of land between the two arms of Lake Como, the historic Belle Époque Hotel Grande Bretagne was one of the destination's very first and most distinguished luxury hotels when it opened in 1850. The property fell into disuse at the end of the last century and has since been acquired by the Galbusera family with a vision to restore the prestigious reputation of the former grand hotel through an extensive restoration and expansion project.
"As a family, we are deeply rooted in the stunning area of Lake Como and are incredibly proud to be bringing The Ritz-Carlton brand to Bellagio," said Emanuele Galbusera.
Spread over a 16,500 square metre estate, the regeneration scheme will be the most notable hospitality development project in the Lake Como area in recent years and will involve a complete conservative restoration and reimagining of the property with respect for the historical significance of the building.
The Ritz-Carlton, Bellagio will be located within a fifteen-minute walk of tourist attractions in Bellagio such as Punta Spartivento, Villa Melzi and the gardens of Parco Villa Serbelloni.
Lake Como is an internationally recognized resort destination famed for its dramatic backdrops and charming towns and magnificent villas, which have acted as the setting for several blockbuster films including Casino Royale and Oceans Twelve. The destination is easily accessible from Milan's Malpensa International Airport.
