An enchanted haven for all who wish for an experience of the emotions.
Villa Crespi was and is a dream come true, lying on the shores of romantic Lake Orta.
Cristoforo Benigno Crespi, a pioneer of the Italian cotton industry, while travelling on business in the Middle East was bewitched by Baghdad and its charms and in 1879 finished his own magnificent Moorish villa surrounded by a park that sloped down to the lake.
It had taken him 30 years to complete. Originally the villa was called Villa Pia, as Mr Crespi dedicated it to his wife, Pia Crespi.
The construction work was entrusted to the architect Angelo Colla to whom Benigno Crespi left carte blanche, allowing him to express the very best of himself and his passion for decorative detail while highlighting the middle eastern character Crespi desired.
Over the course of time, a series of owners have held Villa Crespi, and when the Marquis Fracassi of Torre Rossano acquired it in the 1930's, it became an exclusive place for visits by poets, nobles and kings, well-known all over Northern Europe.
RELAIS ET CHATEAUX
A journey of the senses...
The charmingly Moorish Villa Crespi entered Relais & Châteaux in 2012.
The mainstays of this Association are fine hotels with excellent restaurants, membership meaning the constant focus of attention is the guest is for whom unique, impeccable service, defining the world of Relais & Châteaux, is provided.
Cinzia and Antonino manage the villa and their staff convey the philosophy of the Relais & Châteaux family, making an experience at Villa Crespi a journey of the senses dedicated to the wellbeing of the guest.
The Villa has 14 rooms and suites on three floors.
Inside the architecture and Moorish style reflect the middle eastern theme which is also a characteristic of the exterior of the residence.
Cristoforo Benigno Crespi, proprietor of Villa Crespi, in 1879 decided the Moorish style would inspire his “dream” home on Lake Orta.
This style includes stuccoes and inlays that remind of those far-off places which as a cotton merchant he regularly visited during business trips to Baghdad and Asia.
The housekeeper Liliya takes daily care of these rooms which are furnished in the elegant style of the19th century with Arabesque features in the doors and windows.
All the rooms are decorated with gorgeous parquet flooring and period furniture, the bathrooms being in marble.
The Villa Crespi building respects the rules of 19th century architecture where the upper floors were the accommodation for service staff, with slightly smaller rooms compared to those on the lower floors which were for the proprietors and their guests.
It is interesting to observe how the Villa stairs get narrower as they wind up to the area between the second and third floor.
This is why the larger Deluxe rooms and Suites are on the first and second floors while the Classic rooms are on the third floor of the Villa.
Seductively authentic Middle Eastern atmospheres in a dream suite.
On the first floor of the Villa, the 51 square metre Rania Suite features deep red silk wall coverings and is very romantic.
At the entrance, before entering the suite itself, you access an anti-camera furnished with a console and mirror.
The suite has a large double canopy bed and magnificent parquet flooring.
South facing, it enjoys fine light from 5 large windows throughout the day.
There is a large arabesque arch in the Suite, recalling the Moorish style the villa is built in, which is an ideal separation between the sleeping area and a cozy lounge area with a sofa, wooden coffee table and two chairs.
At the foot of the bed is a large table which is ideal for breakfast or a romantic aperitif.
Moorish inspiration for the villa is also to be seen in the decorations on ceiling, windows and doors.
Due to its generous proportions, the Rania Suite is also perfect for families or more than two people staying and extra beds or cots can be added, on request.
The marble bathroom is particularly well lit thanks to a large window with plenty of natural light pouring through it.
There is also a large shower with a broad central shower-head.
The seduction of a Thousand and One Nights.
The 51 square metre Sheherazade Suite, considered to be Villa Crespi’s master suite, is on the second floor of the villa and features deep red silk wall coverings and a romantic atmosphere.
At the foot of the bed is a large table which is ideal for a romantic aperitif or breakfast.
Lighting is soft and warm thanks to numerous lamps of various kinds and sizes.
South-facing, the suite enjoys plenty of light throughout the day from the 5 large windows offering an enchanting view of the lake and the surrounding countryside.
A large Moorish arch which is reminiscent of the style the villa is built in separates the sleeping area from the lounge area with its sofa and armchairs.
Due to its generous proportions, the Sheherazade Suite is also perfect for families or more than two people staying and extra beds or cots can be added, on request.
The marble bathroom is particularly well lit thanks to a large window with plenty of natural light pouring through it. There is also a Jacuzzi tub.
Elegance and inspiration: your personal refuge to live intense emotions in.
The 47 square metre Nur Suite is on the second floor of the villa and the walls are covered in antique gold silk.
It has a large double canopy bed and magnificent parquet flooring.
The marble bathroom with jacuzzi tub are ideal for deep relaxation and re generation.
At sunset, when the sunlight reflects on the golden wall hangings, an atmosphere is created that is quite surreal, almost enchanted.
A lounge area in the suite is ideal for moments of relaxation and reading .
Due to the spacious nature of the suite, it is ideal for stays for families and more than two people.
It is possible to add an extra bed and cot on request.
The 47 square metre Amira suite on the first floor of the villa, features gold coloured silk wall coverings, a large double canopy bed and superb parquet flooring.
The marble bathroom is particularly bright and airy thanks to the natural light pouring in through the window.
The jacuzzi tub is ideal for long moments of relaxation.
The Suite is south facing and full of light, particularly in the afternoon hours, thanks to the four large windows offering a fine view of the lake and over the mature gardens of the villa.
The strong arabesque atmosphere of the room is due to two typically Moorish arches and the decorations on the ceilings.
The furnishings are enhanced by a fireplace in stone.
Live the charm of times past and be pampered by light and elegance.
The bright, light 38 square metre Jamila suite is on the first floor of the villa and has gold coloured silk wall coverings, a large double canopy bed with magnificent parquet flooringand an elegant marble bathroom with large shower.
Facing south, it enjoys a lovely warm natural light from the large windows which enjoys an enchanting lake view and views of the the mature gardens surrounding the villa.
The intricately decorated ceilings, doors and windows are arabesque in character following the style the whole villa was built in.
In the suite, the typically Moorish arches make for an open division between the sleeping area and the sitting area, the latter having a coffee table and armchairs near the windows.
A touch of magic in a suite whose view is the gift of an unforgettable memory.
The 38 square metre Zeina Suite is on the second floor of the villa and the gold coloured wall coverings are a feature together with the large double canopy bed and magnificent parquet flooring.
South facing it enjoys a fine natural light which enters through the large windows of both the bedroom and the bathroom offering both abeautiful lake view and a view over the mature gardens surrounding the relais.
The elegant marble bathroom has a jacuzzi tub.
Experience the peace and tranquillity of home while living a dream family holiday.
The 30 square metre Leila Suite, on the first floor of the villa, is L-shaped and in royal blue silk with a large double bed and an extra bed.
On crossing the threshold of this suite one enters a small anti-camera from which one accesses the bedroom through the door opposite or the bathroom through the door on the right.
The room has a magnificent parquet floor and the marble bathroom has a shower and enjoys natural light.
The four windows on two sides of the suite ensure a light and airy interior and a fine view of the gardens .
This suite is ideal for family stays thanks to its shape, the long side of the L being ideal for the positioning of a single bed.
Revel in the noble colours of this suite, ideal toregenerate the well-being of the soul.
The 30 square metre Samar Suite on the second floor of the villa has royal blue wall-coverings, is L-shaped with a large double bed and an extra bed.
It has a magnificent parquet floor and the marble bathroom has a shower and enjoys natural light.
Your dreams take centre stage in an enchanting atmosphere fit for Princes.
Enjoy an excellent Italian espresso in the comfort of your room while sitting at a table that is perfect for a moment of relaxation, for a snack or breakfast in your room.
On the first floor of the villa, the 26 square metre room called Aidha is a cocoon of gold coloured silk featuring a large canopy bed and magnificent parquet floor.
The en suite marble bathroom has natural light and a shower.
Three large windows overlook the gardens, offering evocative views on the mature park and the lush countryside surrounding the villa.
This room is recommended for families with the addition of an extra bed or cot.
Pamper your senses and enjoy the view over our age-old park and its gorgeous colours.
The 26 square metre room named Isdihar, on the second floor of the villa, features red silk walls and a large double canopy bed with a superb parquet floor.
The marble bathroom has a shower and enjoys natural light.
Overlooking the garden, the view is of the mature gardens and the lush countryside surrounding the villa.
The table and chairs are ideal for a relaxing snack or breakfast in your room.
An extra bed or cot can be added, on request, for the younger guests.
The room from which to see the magical colours of sunset over the most romantic lakes in Italy
The 22 square metre room named Aisha is spacious and lies on the third floor of the villa.
The rooms on this floor are the only ones in the villa which have a small terrace with a table and armchairs and a glimpse of the lake.
Aisha features walls covered in antique pink silk, a large double bed and elegant parquet flooring.
The marble bathroom has a jacuzzi tub.
You will also find a table and chairs in the bedroom, ideal for reading or writing at, for relaxing over a snack or breakfast served in the room.
A balcony suspended between lake and mountains, the view a leading light on nature’s stage
The 22 square metre double room goig by he name of Yasmin, on the third and final floor of the villa, features features features walls covered in antique pink silk, a large double bed and elegant parquet flooring.
The comfort of the 22 square metre room called Muna, on the third floor of the villa, features walls covered in antique pink silk, a large double bed and elegant parquet flooring.
A sleeping view taking the eye up to the imposing minaret decorated with magical Moorish inlay work.
The room named Najaa, on the third and last floor of the villa, features a large double bed on a raised level with steps and elegant parquet flooring. The marble bathroom has a jacuzzi tub.
Antonino Cannvacciuolo, the much awarded Chef Patron of Relais et Châteaux Villa Crespi boats two MIchelin stars and recognition in the most renowned food guides in Italy.
The Chef conveys his feelings and thoughts through his own philosophy of cuisine, representing not only his own professional path but also his experiences of life, his inner journey which from the traditions of his native South (starting from his beloved Naples) took him north to his present day home on the shores of Lake Orta in Piedmont.
Cannavacciuolo, like the perfect conductor of an orchestra, coordinates and leads his team who day by day spread their passion and love through the kitchens and dining rooms of his restaurant, making a visit to Villa Crespi an unforgettably exciting experience.
Villa Crespi’s restaurant dining rooms are the perfect dimension to show off the magic of Chef Cannavacciuolo’s dishes.
Antonino proposes an exclusive and unrepeatable occasion for you: experience a morning in the Relais & Châteaux Villa Crespi kitchens.
The Chef makes his kitchen and staff available for a fascinating appointment.
A thrilling journey which will reveal how cooking becomes an art, thanks to the talent and passion of an extraordinary chef.
An art which involves the mind and the senses, an unforgettable experience, observation, flavors and masterful moments.
Under the guidance of Antonino Cannavacciuolo’s sous-chefs the kitchen experience is an occasion that leads to the discovery of the secrets of preparation of three classic dishes, a true symbol of his work.
09.30h - 11.30h
2 GUIDE MICHELIN STARS
Elegant furnishings and place settings with the utmost care for detail, drapes, paintings and fine tableware are the perfect match for the Villa’s Moorish atmosphere and baroque finish.
The veranda and the 3 ground floor rooms that make up the restaurant take you on a journey around the square area of the Villa where there are about 20 tables in all.
The three rooms have different colours as their distinguishing mark, the yellow room, the blue room and the red room.
The veranda is also an area of the restaurant with a total of 7 tables. Once open air, today it is closed in by glass and overlooks the park, reminding of a long gallery.
The yellow and blue rooms are bright and well lit, just behind the veranda and they enjoy the bright daylight that filters through.
The inner red room has a great period stone fireplace.
Walking through the rooms and absorbing their elegance and atmosphere is like taking a step back into past times and a rich 19th century residence.
The maître Paolo and the sommelier Matteo welcome guests at their table, assisting and advising them during their fine dining experience at Villa Crespi.
The restaurant staff ensure the rooms and tables are prepared to perfection and are always there to enhance their guests‘ every moment at table.
According to popular legend a secret tunnel led to the Island of San Giulio and then to the medieval Towe called the Buccione connecting them with the villa.
In the cellars, one for red wines and one dedicated to white wines, sparkling wines and champagne, wines lie at ideal temperatures and in correct conditions of humidity and the wine list includes the finest of national and international oenology, a thousand labels divided by region and wine producing areas.
The wine list is constantly evolving and aims to satisfy all guests' requirements and curiosity.
The wines are from Italy and further afield, not only from France, but from countries all over the world.
Antonino Cannavacciuolo, Chef Patron of the Hotel Villa Crespi restaurant in Orta San Giulio, boasts two Michelin stars and recognition from the most important and renowned Italian food guides which rate him among the most distinguished of chefs.
A man, a young man with a strong, determined temperament … cheerful, tenacious, passionate and instinctive.
An artist and a skillful manager who plays with the products of his beloved homeland of Naples, integrating, mixing and combining them with the ones from Piedmont, the land of his great love, his wife.
No limits, no scruples, he dares, changes, tests …. A crescendo of applause, consensus and smiles from his diners.
These are the greatest gift he could ask for. He listens to advice, accepts criticism, leaves nothing to chance, the most important thing for him is that the message he conveys through his dishes is understood.
Presentation of his creations is the way he communicates what he feels, laying bare his inner being, his art. Some do it with a song, some with poetry, others prefer a film … chef Antonino Cannvacciuolo is an artist who involves his spectators in the matching of colours with flavours.
He does not abandon tradition and the simplicity of flavours, his cuisine is never banal and always has a surprise in store. He uses the finest raw materials, the fusion of present and past for his Mediterranean cuisine of creative excellence.
He never forgets his origins, the tough beginnings in and out of various kitchens, remains mindful of what it is like to rise through the ranks, never letting go of his determination to grow, the wish to learn.
In 2000 he set off for some important internships in renowned French restaurants such as "L’Auberge de l’Ille”, 3 Michelin stars at Illerhausen and “Restaurant Buerehiesel”, also 3 Michelin stars.
And then firmness, tenacity, constancy … continuous research, the wish to surprise and be surprised, playing, being inspired, growing, and much like his beloved sea, in constant ferment and movement …
And the beauty of it is he hasn’t finished yet!
CHANDRA DEVA WELLNESS SUITE
Grant your wish for wellbeing that will appeal to the senses.
The name of the relaxation area is reminiscent of India, the land in which the superb treatments have their origin.
Chandra as in the moon: all you have to do is close your eyes and you will be able to caress the moonlight as it enters the room.
Deva as in divinity, the divinity that is in each of the guests.
The name was chosen as it is the expression of the whole philosophy of well-being at Villa Crespi.
A fine range of ayurvedic treatments and massages with the atmosphere and fragrant incense accompany you on an exciting journey of discovery, guided by the professional care of expert masseurs.
It is possible to create your ideal massage formula for recovery of perfect physical and mental balance.
A fine range of ayurvedic treatments with the atmosphere and fragrant incense accompany you on an exciting journey of discovery.
Get an excuisite treatment, guided by the professional care of expert masseurs.
The special services in Villa Crespi devised and selected for you by Cinzia and Antonino Cannavacciuolo are designed for you may enjoy an unforgettable experience in an atmosphere reminiscent of a Thousand and One Nights.
Start dreaming about your next trip to one of the most charming medieval walled villages in Italy.
Glimpses of little villages, wide open meadows and majestic peaks will enchant you.
Enjoy the charming little hill villages around Lake Orta and visits to farms where the products, cheese and yogurt, woodland fruits, jams and more besides, are particularly good and the views breathtaking.
The enchanted isle, where the past offfers many stories and legends about the the only island in Lake Orta.
The mountain sports - summer hiking and downhill skiing in winter - are the pastimes that will relax you and fill you with positive energy thanks to their great beauty.
The city of Milan is an important destination for fashion but also a center for art and culture.
Dedicated to St Francis of Assisi, the Sacro Monte at Orta is a park on a hilltop with beautiful views over the peninsula and picturesque medieval village of St Giulio, the lake and surrounding mountains.
Enjoy the elegance and excellence the area offers.
The lakeside town offers a fine walk along the promenade with gorgeous views of the islands and the elegant Belle Epoque hotels which alternate with the period villas. And do not miss a boat trip.
The charming little village of Orta San Giulio is one of Italy's 100 Most Beautiful Villages.
VILLA CRESPI
Via G.Fava, 18 - 28016Orta San Giulio NovaraItaly