Hotel Review: Casa sull'Albero, Lake Como

Most Lake Como hotels are sprinkled along the Como branch of the lake, although Casa Sull'Albero is tucked away on the Lecco branch, a much quieter stretch of the lake well away from the tourist crowds. The hotel is nestled in its own leafy grounds, offering a peaceful and secluded location.

By plane: direct flights from London (under 2 hours) and Manchester (2 hours 15 minutes) to Milan Malpensa. The hotel is about one hours's drive from the airport. On-site parking costs €15 a day. Book flights to Milan.

Integrating with the natural environment, this minimalist design hotel is set in two wooden structures with all-glass walls. Everything was designed with the environment in mind: the building was constructed using solar and photovoltaic power, wood and stone feature throughout, and furniture is made by skilled local carpenters using reclaimed wood from mountain huts. The simple, uncluttered interiors feature clean lines and monochromatic palettes of white, brown and black, with light flooding in through huge windows.

The reception area is discreet; the young team are helpful and can organise activities from boat tours and wine tasting sessions to windsurfing and water skiing. There's a small swimming pool and a personal spa area, with a steam room, sauna and relaxation area. There are free e-bikes for guests, a small library and a meeting area that doubles up as an art gallery.

• Bar
• Honesty kitchen
• Garden
• Swimming pool
• Spa
• Free bike hire
• On-site parking
• Free Wi-Fi

Rooms blend harmoniously with the surrounding garden, with light flooding in through floor-to-ceiling windows. Strong, clean lines and bare walls create airy spaces, with monochromatic palettes and natural materials. The minimalist vibe continues in the bathrooms, with wooden worktops and rain showers.

Room types: Garden View Room, Lake View Room, Garden View Suite, Lake View Suite

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, bathrobes and slippers, hairdyer, TV, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi

The 24/7 honesty kitchen is stocked with local produce sourced from nearby farms, and there's wine, beer and cocktails too. You can order cheeses, yoghurt, toasted sandwiches and wraps. Breakfast is served in-room or the honesty kitchen and features sweet and savoury dishes. The hotel is affiliated with Ristorante da Giovannino, fewer than five minutes' stroll from the hotel grounds.

Honesty Kitchen: open 24/7.