This small and very charming village on the western shore of Lake Como has come to share the fame of Villa d'Este. Since the 1500's, the estate served as a royal residence before it was transformed in 1873 into one of Europes most fabulous and luxurious hotels. Cernobbio was a holiday favorite for film director Luchino Visconti, whose family owned the Villa Erba, now an important convention center. Leaving Cernobbio, a boat excursion is a must. It's the only way to truly appreciate the line-up of astoundingly beautiful private villas and gardens for which the lake is famous. Cernobbio Villa d'Este Grand Hotel and Sporting Club Via Regina 40, Ph. 031-3481, Fax 031-348844 Open March-November. Part of the Leading Hotels of The World Association, the Villa d'Este is a marvelous 16th-century royal estate, situated in a 10-acre private park. There are two restaurants, a sports club with 3 swimming pools, 8 tennis courts, and seven (!) 18-hole golf courses in easy reach of the hotel by car. This year, the Villa d'Este is to celebrate its 125th anniversary as a hotel, although the villa itself is over 400 years old. Golf Club Villa d'Este Back to Cover Page

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