L’Albereta

Location: Lombardy, Italy.

L’Albereta is a member of Relais & Châteaux, but with 57 rooms, it is a lot bigger than most members of this exclusive organisation. The check-in was formal, and it felt like a corporate hotel compared to the smaller Relais & Châteaux hotels I have stayed, but on the other hand, L’Albereta has 5-star facilities that are unusual for many of the Relais & Châteaux hotels. A beautiful massive Escape Chenot spa with a swimming pool, where I had a unique spa treatment. It is one of Chenot’s only two medical & wellness spas in Italy. 30 staff total at the spa of highly qualified doctors, therapists, dieticians, osteopaths, beauticians, receptionists and a welcoming team.

My room was comfortable, with complimentary high-speed internet access, but could have been better isolated as it was noisy and I could hear people talking outside while trying to relax in bed. Besides the spa, L’Albereta also has a shop, a reasonably priced pizzeria and a gourmet restaurant called LeoneFelice where I had a wonderful evening. L’Albereta recently changed their chef and currently doesn’t hold a Michelin star. Only a Michelin recommendation. It is a big mistake in my opinion as it was comparable, and even better than some of the two Michelin-starred restaurants I have stayed including Villa Crespi where I stayed the following night. Fabio Abbattista is a talented young chef under 40, and I’m sure it is only a matter of time before he receives a Michelin star. I was very impressed with the food here.

The final thing that impressed me was the breakfast. One of the best I’ve had in my travels. I haven’t seen as many certified organic products at a breakfast buffet at a 5-star hotel as here, and I love having the possibility of a pesticide-free meal of high quality. L’Albereta is a stunning property with professional service, and excellent food set in a gorgeous location.

Duration of Stay/Visit: One night.

My Opinion: Great experience.