My Look: Villa d’Este

Greetings from Lake Como, where I am staying at one of my favorite hotels in the world, Villa d’Este. It is simply a heaven in one of Italy’s most desirable locations: Cernobbio. This Renaissance era palace is a portal to another world, with a touch of Italian Old World charm it is a true luxurious experience. Walking through the beautiful gardens, I am wearing my favorite summer uniform, a floral Zimmermann gown and a Bottega Veneta bag. The linen fabrics are easy to pack and look great even a little bit wrinkled.

My look: Zinnia floral-print linen midi dressicon and Aurora oversized butterfly acetate sunglassesicon, both by Zimmermann, Almost Bare metallic leather sandalsicon by Aquazzura, Jodie mini knotted leather toteicon by Bottega Veneta and Royal Oak 37mm 18-karat frosted rose gold watch by Audemars Piguet.

Looking at the terrible news from Beirut, I am so thankful that I am in such a beautiful and safe environment. Sending prayers to Lebanon. Everyone, stay safe! It is not the easiest time we are living in at the moment. So enjoy every day to the fullest!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Mandarin Oriental Goes Lake Como

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, owner and operator of some of the world’s most luxurious hotels and resorts, announced that it has taken over the management of CastaDiva Resort & Spa, an existing resort on Lake Como, Italy. The property will be rebranded as Mandarin Oriental, Lake Como in spring 2019 following a refurbishment of facilities. This will be Mandarin Oriental’s first resort in Western Europe and will complement the Group’s Milan hotel.

Located on the shores of Lake Como, and surrounded by lush botanic parkland, the resort is a landmark of historic importance, comprising 76 spacious rooms and suites housed in nine villas, dating from the 19th Century. Two of the villas will be bookable in their entirety giving guests their own private retreat. Almost all accommodation has lake views that can be enjoyed from either a balcony or terrace. The resort features four restaurants and bars, including a lakeside terrace for al fresco dining, a large spa with an indoor swimming pool and an outdoor floating pool on the lake. There is also a variety of social and meeting facilities in the resort’s grounds.

Lake Como has been a popular travel destination for centuries, and is regarded as one of the most beautiful resort areas in northern Italy. The lake is surrounded by villas, gardens and villages and offers visitors a wealth of scenic views, hiking trails, boating and other water activities. It is easily accessed from Milan Malpensa airport.

CastaDiva Resort & Spa was acquired in 2017 by funds managed by Attestor Capital LLP, a value-oriented investment manager with a long-term investment horizon, based in London and primarily focused on investing in Europe.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Mandarin Oriental