How did your journey with Villa Feltrinelli begin?
We bought the Villa in 1997 and spent five years restoring it to its former splendour. We opened as a hotel in July 2001. We have since maintained its formal and grand style.
As one of the most exclusive hotels on the planet how do you maintain the Villa’s exclusivity and luxury?
Quality of service is essential and this comes from one of the most important assets of the Villa – our staff. We have a high ratio of three to one, and have had no staff turnover. This means we have maintained the same team members and over the years have learned our guests’ needs.
What is unique about your hotel’s location?
The Villa itself is unique as it is a historic building built in 1892. It is located in the small village of Gargnano, in a private eight-acre park and gardens.
Is privacy for high profile guests given priority?
Privacy is a priority for all our guests at the Villa. It is located in a secluded park and is not open to non-residents.
Describe the personality of Villa Feltrinelli
The Villa’s opulence befits the prosperous family for which it was built. Today it still captures the essence of a superbly smart family home with a warm, relaxed and friendly manner.
How has the hotel performed commercially over the years?
Commercially the Villa maintains itself – 50% of our guests are return guests. We have only 21 rooms, yet we achieve exceptionally high seasonal room occupancies – of about 80%.
Who are your customers and from which parts of the world do they visit?
We have an international clientele, but the majority of our guests are from the US and Europe.
Are there any plans to expand the concept of your brand into other destinations?
We are interested in finding a property similar to the Villa, but in a winter location.
The Villa and its grand park were built in 1892 by the prominent Feltrinelli family and served as a summer escape. What made the Villa the perfect escape from Milan?
It’s appeal is the same as In the 1800 & 1900’s when very wealthy Italian families living in Milan, built summer homes on the lakes to get away from the heat of the city.
Mussolini, Churchill, DH Lawrence and even Hitler have stayed there. Can you share any further great past times?
In the late forties and early fifties Giangiacomo Feltrinelli used the Villa to hold many parties and political meetings, which attracted many famous writers and activists of the time.
What do you believe was the reason behind Mussolini using Villa Feltrinelli as his war-time hideout?
We believe that Mussolini was a prisoner and was obliged by the Germans to remain at the Villa.
What is Villa Feltrinelli’s philosophy?
We provide a private home away from home. We want our guests to feel that they’ve been invited to stay in a luxurious family home not a hotel.
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