Hey gang-
Well, after gushing to friends and neighbors about Hotel Eremo Gaudio on Lake Como, I was saddened to learn that they have closed permanently.
Our memories of the place are indelible. Beyond "they closed", does anyone know any details? Death in the family? Property sold? It's just sad and I can't imagine returning to Varenna without it. The closure is mentioned in Rick's latest Italy guidebook update, but searches of the web yield no details.
Thanks all- and keep on traveling!
Dave
I don't know anything about why it closed but I also have very fond memories of my stay there. A unique place with fantastic views. Sorry I won't be able to go back.
Postings on trip advisor confirm it is CLOSED.
Unable to find info on why.
Have the happy memory of waking the 1st morning, looking over my sheet covered toes at the lake and the sun on the top half of the hillside on the far side of the lake. Magical.
Well hopefully it hasn't been sold to be flipped as some Milanese billionaire's mountainside trinket. Hoping for new owners where we can once again enjoy the views and comfort of our favorite "Eremo Superiore" room with balcony and did I mention....those breathtaking views? And the personal funiculars!!!
Ciao!
David,
Despite the gorgeous views and good service, I suspect the hotel closed due to insufficient revenue to cover expenses and allow a reasonable profit. The hotel probably didn't operate year round so that would also limit revenue. That situation probably occurred over a number of years before they decided to close. It was in a somewhat awkward location, which didn't provide easy access to either the train or ferries nor the restaurants and other facilities in the centre of Varenna.
If memory serves, it appeared to be closed when I was there in April. I agree that the location is a bit far away from the town center but there would be nice views. I'm wondering if proximity to the cemetery put off travelers?
Marc-
I had to look at Google Maps as I couldn't recall the cemetery. It turns out that one would only have seen it if you'd arrived via car from points south. We arrived via train and so never got far enough down the Via Roma to even know it was there. Same would be true for those arriving via ferry. But in truth, I'm going to say that Rick taught us to know that if you are in a small town in Europe, then you are near a cemetery. And my wife and I always drop in and pay respect when it's permissible. In fact recalling right now the large cemetario and mausoleum on our trek in the Cinque Terre from Vernazza to Rio Magiorre. We lit some candles and thanked them for giving us such a beautiful place!
And heck- it's the quiet side! ;)
We stayed there in 2011, our first night in Italy on that trip. We still talk about our sunset from the balcony on the sixth level enjoying a bottle of wine. That was one of the memories that influenced our move to Italy for a couple years.
I'm wondering if proximity to the cemetery put off travelers?
No idea what happened to this accommodation but I'm sure it had nothing to do with proximity to the cemetery. Italian cemeteries are generally beautiful (this one looks to be no exception) and the residents won't keep you up with any late night carryings-on. :O)
