The Italian sun is shining on Passalacqua on the shores of Lake Como in Italy’s Lake Region, and this winter is the perfect time to escape to the 18^th-century villa-turned-boutique hotel. Set within the picturesque village of Moltrasio, the property’s sizable wellness complex is home to treatments featuring natural and organic products from Seed to Skin Tuscany. The spa itself evokes a sense of timelessness, occupying a space in the ground-floor hall, where towering stone columns and deep vaults have been transformed to accommodate a wide range of holistic experiences.

© Passalacqua

In the villa’s orchard, treatments feature “farm to body” ingredients and rituals designed to connect guests with nature. Beneath the gardens, a secret tunnel dating to the 18^th century has been unearthed and now houses a sauna and steam bath. The tunnel opens into a rocky chamber with a heated indoor pool, and extends to terraced Italian gardens and views overlooking Lake Como — and can be booked for private time. The spa’s fitness center occupies a long greenhouse with views of the lake and grounds, while yoga and meditation sessions are offered within a circle created by a ring of ancient magnolia trees.

© Passalacqua

Guests can nourish themselves on another level, too, thanks to the recent addition of Michelin-starred Chef Viviana Varese to the culinary team. Throughout the winter season, Chef Varese helms a series of themed dining experiences like oyster and Champagne evenings in the greenhouse, and curated dinners in Il Cantinone wine cellar. A special truffle menu will be served, along with mulled wine, handcrafted sweets, polenta served in a traditional copper pot, chestnuts, local liqueurs, gin and signature cocktails at the bar.