Hi - we have the option to stay in either hotel in June. Milano has a lateral room view but I like the restaurant overlooking the lake. Olivedo has a lake front room (really nice but not sure how much time we will be in the room) but seems to be across the street from the lake..hard to tell from the website photos.
Has anyone stayed in either location?
Thanks,
Kristen
Sorry the hotel is Albergo Milano.
thanks,
Kristen
Kristen,
I stayed at the Milano and enjoyed it. I ate at the Milano and it was great, my meal at Olivedo was OK.
Kristen,
I've stayed at Albergo Olivedo (also with a lake-side room) and the room wasn't luxurious but was very comfortable. I was travelling solo and with that particular single room there was no WC (the bathroom was down the hall and the shower one floor down). Most of the other rooms that I had a brief look at appeared to have ensuite facilities.
Albergo Olivedo is only a short distance from the lake. The Ferry dock and ticket office is right across the street. The noise from the P.A. system starts in the morning but I didn't find that to be a problem. As you said, people don't often stay in the room that much anyway. The restaurant there seemed to be quite popular not only with those staying in the Hotel, but "walk-ins" also. As I recall, the Ravioli was wonderful! If the weather is nice, the restaurant is outside on the patio and it's wonderful to sit there looking at the lake with a glass of Vino, looking at the lake and watching the boats pass by.
I've never stayed at Albergo Milano but it appears to be a bit more "upscale" (ie: more expensive).
Happy travels!
Hi Kristen,
I love Albergo Milano.... I was there March 2002 and plan on going back this March.... Bettina and Egidio are very sweet. I've never stayed at Olivedo so I can't compare. Good luck and happy traveling.
Windy
I'm staying at Albergo Milano this May and looking forward to it. One of the reasons I didn't consider Albergo Olivedo is there was required half-board when I looked into it. Something to consider since it's not a requirement at Milano.
I liked Olivedo and In my opinion the half board would not be a problem because the meals there are excellent.
We stayed at Olivedo in Sept. '05 and loved it. We did the 1/2 board and thought the food was great. It is right at the lake, you can eat outside and enjoy the view.
Thanks for the positive comments on Olivedo. I already have booked this hotel but have read so many horrible things that honestly I am a bit worried. People either think it is best or worst hotel...nothing in between. Scathing comments on Laura. We missed our window with booking Milano and now I am determined to have a wonderful time there!
Thanks,
Kristen
Kristen, even RS calls her "stern" Laura. We found her to be wicked smart, helpful and informative. She speaks 5 languages. But she is very busy and professional. We were there 3 nights. She was at work every morning at 7:00 am, and still working every night closing the resto at 9:30 or so. None in our party of 4 was put off by her.
Kristen,
I heard the same stories prior to my first visit to Albergo Olivedo, but I tried to keep an "open mind". I found Laura to be very pleasant and easy to get along with. During my stay she was easy to deal with but she takes care of business first so doesn't have a lot of time for socializing. That may explain why some feel she's a bit "brusque". Keep in mind that she owns/manages an apartment or whatever in addition to the Hotel, so I'm sure she doesn't have a lot of free time.
If you're pleasant, I'm sure you'll get the same in return. Try to reserve judgment until after your stay there, and be sure to give us your impressions when you get back.
Happy travels!
Thanks especially to Kathleen and Ken - I am definitely not put off and completely understand the difference between busy and rude. I am really looking forward to our trip and appreciate your comments!
Kristen
I enjoyed Hotel Olivedo except that there are no elevators. otherwise itis perfect with incredible views and entertainment of activities. Our rom was completely remodeled and beautiful with a Juliet balconey.the pumpkin gnocchi is to die for here do not miss it!
Kristen, you're most welcome!
I'm hoping to get back to Varenna this year for a short visit, but unfortunately due to circumstances it might only be a day trip. However, I will make sure that I'm at Albergo Olivedo in time for dinner!
Cheers!
