Little Gem No. 095 | *Old-World Elegance on the Shores of Lake Lugano

Tucked into the quiet village of San Mamete (Valsolda), this family-run hotel feels like stepping back into a more graceful time. Nothing much has changed here since the 1910s—and that’s precisely its charm. Think antique furniture, polished terrazzo floors, waiters in crisp white jackets, and the kind of service that comes only from passion handed down through four generations of the Ortelli family.

The building itself has an even deeper story. Once a 17th-century villa, it was transformed into a hotel in 1910 by Alfredo Ortelli, who returned home after years of experience across Europe’s great restaurants. Since then, each generation has carefully preserved its soul, adding touches here and there, but always with a sense of continuity. More than 110 years later, the Ortellis still welcome guests with the same dedication—proof that true hospitality never goes out of style.

The Space

Inside, the atmosphere is unmistakably old-school Italian glamour. The lounge is lined with mementos of past travelers, the library still holds books from another era, and the dining room reflects nearly a century of stories. The hotel has a simplicity that feels refreshing—timeless rather than trendy.

Bedrooms

The hotel offers 29 rooms, divided into four categories, each with sweeping views over Lake Lugano. Every room has its own character: some decorated with antique pieces, others refreshed with mid-century notes, but all designed to honor the building’s heritage. The effect is not luxury in the modern sense, but comfort wrapped in history—where waking up to the sight of the lake feels like the true indulgence.

The Lake 

The heart of the hotel is its garden and lakeside terrace. Meals are served beneath linden trees and climbing rose pergolas, with the lake stretching out only a few steps away. Here, summer lunches blend into lazy afternoons, and dinners unfold in the golden light of the lake’s reflection. Guests often linger with a Negroni or a glass of wine, simply watching swimmers splash in the water and boats drift past.

The Restaurant

The kitchen team cooks with the kind of quiet confidence that comes from experience. Classic Italian dishes—prepared with locally sourced ingredients—are served with traditional, attentive service. In the evening, the lakeside garden transforms into one of the most atmospheric dining spots on Lake Lugano.

Surroundings

The hotel sits in San Mamete, a lakeside village that embodies the quiet rhythm of Italian life. From here, guests can explore the surrounding Valsolda valley, dotted with historic churches, walking trails, and hidden hamlets. For those who wish to venture further, Lake Como and the city of Lugano (Switzerland) are within easy reach, making it an ideal base for both cultural outings and lakeside relaxation.

Getting Here

The nearest airports are Milan Malpensa (around 1.5 hours by car) and Lugano Airport (about 40 minutes). The closest train station is in Lugano, from where a short car or bus ride takes you directly to San Mamete.

We first came across this hotel on a drive from Amsterdam to Tuscany. After a long day on the road, this is the perfect place to stay. A refreshing swim in the lake, a plate of spaghetti alle vongole on the terrace—and suddenly it's clear: you’ve crossed into Italy, and life is good.

Why It’s Special

What sets this hotel apart is not just its setting on Lake Lugano, but its continuity of spirit. Few places still embody this kind of old-world Italian hospitality, where time seems to move slower, and where every guest is welcomed as if into the family. It is a stay not for the fleetingly fashionable, but for those who appreciate places with soul.

Price Indication

Prices start at €150 per room (depending on room type and season