Perched over the lake at Varenna with stunning panoramic views, this family-run hotel is one of Lake Como's best mid-range options. Many rooms have balconies directly over the water, and the terrace restaurant is exceptional.
Hotel du Lac Varenna — now operating under the name Casa du Lac — is a family-run lakeside hotel in the village of Varenna, one of Lake Como's most picturesque destinations in Lombardy. Varenna occupies the eastern shore of the lake and is characterised by narrow stepped lanes, colourful waterfront buildings, and a car-free tranquillity that distinguishes it from the busier southern shores near Como. The hotel sits directly above the water, with several guest rooms featuring private balconies overhanging the lake and offering panoramic views across to the Bellagio promontory and the western shore's mountain backdrop.
The property offers a selection of rooms with lake or village views; the prime lake-facing rooms on upper floors with private balconies are among the most memorable mid-range accommodation options on the whole of Lake Como. Bathrooms are functional and well maintained, and the hotel's family-run character means service is personal and attentive in a manner that larger hotel groups rarely replicate.
The terrace restaurant is the hotel's most celebrated feature: elevated above the lake, it serves fresh regional Lombard cooking with an emphasis on freshwater fish — lavarello, persico, and agoni feature alongside risottos and local pasta. Dining on the terrace at sunset, with the Bellagio mountains reflected in the darkening water below, is one of the most atmospheric experiences available at any price point on the lake.
Varenna is an excellent base for exploring Lake Como. The ferry dock is minutes from the hotel, offering direct connections to Bellagio, Menaggio, and Tremezzo. Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi are walkable garden attractions within the village itself. The Varenna railway station, served by direct trains from Milan's Porta Garibaldi, is a short uphill walk, making the hotel easy to reach without a car.
Amenities
- restaurant
- bar
- wifi
- lake_views
- terrace
Location
Via del Prestino, 4, 23829 Varenna
46.0104, 9.2862 View on map
Highlights
- Lake-facing rooms with private balconies overhanging Lake Como's shimmering waters
- Family-run atmosphere with exceptionally personal service at a mid-range price point
- Terrace restaurant serving regional Lombard freshwater fish with panoramic sunset lake views
- Walking distance to Varenna's ferry dock, Villa Monastero gardens, and direct Milan train connection
Tips for visiting
- Book a lake-facing balcony room as far in advance as possible — only a few of these rooms exist and they sell out quickly
- The terrace restaurant is popular with both guests and local visitors — reserve dinner well in advance during summer months
- The Varenna-to-Bellagio ferry crossing takes under 20 minutes and runs regularly throughout the day
- Direct trains from Milan Porta Garibaldi reach Varenna in approximately one hour — no car needed
- Varenna's stepped lanes and waterfront passeggiata are best explored in early morning before day-trippers arrive
Accessibility
Varenna is built on stepped terraces above the lake, and the hotel reflects the village's hilly character with internal stairs between levels. Lift access within the building is limited. Guests with significant mobility impairments are strongly advised to contact the hotel directly before booking, as the property's historic lakeside structure may present considerable challenges for wheelchair users.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between lake-view and village-view rooms?
Lake-facing rooms look directly over Lake Como from private balconies and represent the hotel's premium option. Village-view rooms face Varenna's narrow lanes and tend to be quieter at night, but without direct water views.
Is the hotel easy to reach without a car?
Yes — Varenna has a railway station with regular direct trains from Milan Porta Garibaldi, and the hotel is a short walk from both the train station and the ferry landing.
Is the terrace restaurant open to non-hotel guests?
The terrace restaurant welcomes non-hotel diners, but reservations are strongly recommended for summer evenings when the terrace fills quickly with both guests and locals.