Aria Retreat and Spa, the brand new ultra luxury resort at Lake Como & Lake Lugano (REVIEW)

Directly on the shores of wonderful Lake Lugano, just 12 km from Lake Como, in the heart of an superb park of 40,000 m2 and a forest of 200,000 m2, Parco San Marco is one of long established upscale resorts. Privately owned, the resort was conceived and built 25 years ago by a family who fell in love with the site. The all-suite villa style concept was meticulously planned to cater to the most diverse guests, from couples to families with children offering all the amenities of an international luxury resort.

Every detail was taken into consideration from a private beach to a state-of-the-art spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pools (separate pools for adults and children), tennis courts and no less than 6 dining outlets from casual to fine dining. At the heart of the healthy cuisine of Parco San Marco there is an incessant research for organic, local and fresh seasonal products of the best quality. Fruits, vegetables and dairy products are sourced, when possible, among local farms.

Over the years, thanks to a strategic approach to permanently investing in human resources and in maintaining the product, the resort complex became a favourite for repeat guests, with families in a way growing up with the resort. Besides providing consistency, desirability and value, the complex has not ceased to keep up relevance through innovation and listening to the guests to understand their expectations over time. One can easily feel from the chauffeur driver to the sommelier how loved the resort is.

In 2023, as a natural evolution of the resort, a brand new ultra luxury resort building was added to the complex – Aria Retreat & Spa (part of Leading Hotels of The World) now operates as a stand-alone resort, with a superlative luxury product incorporating the finest furnishings and finishes, as well as all the services an ultra-luxury resort. The level of personalisation has been brought to excellence standards, drawing on a team which is well bonded, motivated and energised. There is also a sense of great vibes and energy throughout the entire resort.

As a brand new construction, the building respect the strictest sustainability requirements without the smallest impact on ultimate comfort and aesthetics. All the suites feature high ceilings, most with an outdoor terrace (loggia) that will take your breath away with the panoramic picture perfect views at any given time of the day. Reserved for adults, Aria Retreat & Spa incorporates an expansive Spa and wellness centre flooded in natural light and most of it overlooking the lake. The unique positioning of the resort on a corner shape also provides a slightly warmer microclimate than other lake resorts.

Solar panels, next-generation heating systems, home automation solutions to control consumption, and, in the interior spaces, warm wood surfaces are complemented by a high-performance ventilated envelope that was made using large-format, 12-mm-thick slabs of Lapitec – a material resulting from a mixture of 100 percent natural minerals, free of any chemical additives, inks or other petroleum derivatives, and resistant to external agents

Earlier this year, the entire complex was awarded Green Globe Certification, a globally recognized certification for businesses and organizations that demonstrate exceptional dedication to environmentally friendly practices, resource conservation, and sustainable operations. Achieving this certification is a testament to the resorts unwavering commitment to a greener, more sustainable future, embraced as part of every day life.

An indoor heated swimming pool and an outdoor salt-water infinity pool are among the luxury offerings of the 1,500 sqm luxury Spa, which is also impressive in its decor by seamlessly integrating with nature. The mountains, the lake, the thick forest, the lush Mediterranean vegetation – are also reflected in the other facilities – a saltwater sky whirlpool, sauna, sanarium and hammam. No detail has been overlooked and every inch has been carefully crafted including the exquisitely manicured landscape and lush garden.

Suites are large, with separate living and bedroom spaces, each featuring a fully-equipped kitchen and full fridge (all non-alcoholic drinks included). The all marble bathrooms are over-sized, with separate free-standing bathtub and a glass enclosed walk-in shower. High water pressure, bathroom amenities by Acqua di Parma and plush thread fine cotton towels and bathrobes are provided. Housekeeping service is seamless, efficient and attentive to details.

Despite the apparent size and spread, the resort feels private, serene and of the utmost safety, allowing for ultimate relaxation. Staff extend a genuine service in a most effortless manner and without formality. Nevertheless, do expect to feel appreciated, respected and cared for. Attention to details is paramount, staff being trained to act and react fast. You will be remembered and greeted by name throughout your entire stay. The fact that some of team have been with the company for years, is a major advantage.

Oliver Petcu at Lake Lugano

Aria Retreat & Spa (Lake Lugano & Lake Como)