Lake Como is one of Italy’s first class destinations – a sparkling upscale resort area that cosies up to the foothills of the Alps in the Lombardy region.  

Sprinkled around it are village scenes and picturesque towns, one of which is Cernobbio – around two kilometres northwest of Como itself and the setting for this whirlwind four-night mini-break. 

You’ll be staying at the Hotel Villa Flori, a converted 19th century historic villa on the cusp of Lake Como – views of this eye-opening blue body of water spilling into your room. 

This four-star paradise sits nestled right in the middle of a private park of orange and lemon groves, giving it a real Italian feel. It also boasts Venetian stucco work, floral frescoes and antique furnishings that are enough to evoke the fairy tale feeling that so many travellers seek when in Italy. 

When it comes to meals, you’ll be staying on bed and breakfast basis with a range of treats served up in the dining room daily, panoramic views of the lake before you. What better way to start your day?