Accor has announced plans to bring Raffles Hotels & Resorts to Lake Como, marking the brand’s first property in Italy. 

Created in partnership with CL Hotels, and with UniCredit as the financial partner, Raffles Lake Como is slated to debut in 2027.

The project will be a full-scale renovation and conversion of the former Grand Hotel Imperiale, an Art Nouveau villa from the 1920s with one of the largest hotel shorelines in the region. 

Located on the western banks of Lake Como in Moltrasio, the hotel will be designed to reflect the elegance of Raffles and the vibrancy of the Italian culture. The property will comprise 84 rooms, including 18 suites and 2 villas, many of which will showcase views of the lake. 

The hotel is set to offer a number of lakeside culinary experiences, in addition to a signature Long Bar and Writers Bar. Wellness amenities meanwhile will include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a spa and fitness centre, and a beach club. Private lake access will be available, including an exclusive arrival and check-in experience from the water. 

“Raffles Lake Como represents a milestone for Raffles as our first property in Italy and fifth hotel in Europe, underscoring our commitment to thoughtful growth in highly sought after resort destinations,” says Omer Acar, CEO of Raffles Hotels & Resorts. “Raffles is world renowned for its elegance, gracious service and inspirational guest experience, and we are thrilled to bring these hallmarks to one of the world’s most glamorous havens. We look forward to working with CL Hotels, visionary partners who share a commitment to creating a truly unique and exceptional resort.”

Andrea Girolami, Principal of CL Hotels, also comments: “We are honoured to work with Raffles Hotels & Resorts to create a distinct resort experience in Lake Como, a destination known for its stunning natural beauty and glamorous lifestyle. Raffles represents service excellence and heritage, with a deep respect for culture in all its forms, making it an ideal fit for the Lake Como community. Together, we hope to create a new lakeside landmark that will service as an elegant escape for both residents and visitors to the destination.”

Raffles Lake Como will mark the brand’s fifth hotel in Europe, joining Raffles London at The OWO, Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris, Raffles Europejski Warsaw and Raffles Istanbul.