Villa Crespi
In 1879, Crespi commissioned the construction of this magnificent Moorish-style Villa overlooking his beloved Lake Orta. Inspired by his long business trips in the Middle East, he was fascinated with the splendor of Baghdad’s architecture.
Cristoforo Benigno Crespi entrusted the construction of his new home to architect Angelo Colla. The architecture was in the style of Northern Italian villas, with a Romanesque-style interior courtyard, a Tuscan-style garden, and an all-time pool. The Villa was initially named Villa Pia after Cristoforo Benigno Crespi’s wife, but it later became known as the Villa Crespi or simply “La Villa.” Today, you can still read the original “Villa Pia” on one of the gates.
This Moorish masterpiece stands out worldwide for its style, stuccoes, and arabesque inlay. This marvel takes your breath away even hundreds of years after it was built.
The building has gone through a succession of different owners over the years. In the 1930s, it was purchased by Marquis Giacomo Fracassi, and for a time, it became a place of residence for poets, nobles, and royalty, including King Umberto of Savoy. In 1999, after being meticulously updated, Cinzia and Antonino Cannavacciuolo returned to their Eastern Mediterranean charm and turned it into a landmark of Italian hospitality and a temple devoted to refined cuisine and good taste.
Food & Drink
It is an experience to be cherished.
It may look like it takes a long time for the hands of a clock to move, but in reality, it’s just an illusion. In the air, you can find stories about dishes that are very appealing at first glance. The dancers around you are silent and moving gracefully, giving you the show of perfect service in a frame with Moorish details. Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Villa Crespi Restaurant.
Chef Cannavacciuolo has two types of love as a chef and restaurateur: one for the past, to the places that gave rise to his cuisine’s history, and one for the present, looking with gratitude at the land that so graciously welcomed him.
Campania and Piedmont side by side, bringing to light the excellence of ingredients and fantastic wines with the creativity of never-is-enough combinations.
Antonino Cannavacciuolo
Chef Cannavacciuolo’s childhood is filled with memories of dishes cooked with love, like grandma’s ragout, the first recipe he remembers fondly.
He’s always been passionate about cooking. Early on, he experienced the spirit of sacrifice and a desire to strive for perfection in his work– he spent time in Italy and Europe learning about different food cultures.
Until that is, Cinzia Primatesta falls into his life – today, his wife and partner. Together they accept the challenge to bring back Villa Crespi. At just 20 years old, they’ve lived the dream – one that still lives on thanks to an impeccable team at Villa Crespi.
Rooms
The Villa has 14 rooms on three floors. Inside, the architecture and Moorish style reflect the Arab theme of the outside of the Villa.
These impeccable rooms are in rich 19th-century fashion and feature beautifully intricate Arabesque details. All of the bathrooms have marble fixtures and period furniture. The parquet floors are exquisitely detailed.
The Suites put you in a dreamlike state as they are enchanting environments made to live a fantasy. Our Master Suites include the Rania and the Sheherazade, both romantic and elegant with a canopied double bed, warm parquet flooring, an intimate sitting area with a sofa, coffee table and two small armchairs. The marble bathroom is refined and cozy and has a breath-taking view on the Lake with a relaxing natural lighting.
The Villa Crespi building has smaller rooms on the higher floors, where the staff would have lived and serviced the needs of the proprietors and their guests on lower floors. Nowadays, This floor houses four “Classic” rooms, intimate 24 m2 jewels. Every little detail is well cared for. The unique thing about these rooms is the crenelated terrace, which gives off a wonderful view of the lake.
Facts
Moorish style noble house
Orta San Giulio NO
- 14 rooms
- 6 suites
- Fine-dining restaurant
- Bar
- Spa/Wellness packages
- Free WiFI access
- Valet parking
- Pets are allowed. No extra charges.
You can book directly with hotel or take advantage of Tales Concierge. Best Available Rate is always guaranteed.
Amenities
Amenities you get when booking with Tales Hotels Collection
- Early check-in and late check-out upon availability
- Upgrade upon availability
- 10% discount for massages and treatments
- Visit to the 3 Michelin-starred kitchen
Points of View
Staying in Orta San Giulio NO
Located between the provinces of Novara and Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, Lake Orta is a scenic lakeside location that you’ll want to explore on your next vacation. In the Middle Ages the lake was known as Lake San Giulio and only from the 17th century did the current name of Lake Orta begin to take hold, from the main coastal town, Orta San Giulio, a fantastic village. Other very beautiful places are: the Mottarone, the top of the mountain can be reached in 20 minutes and today has large pastures at the top, which testify to the rural character of the area; the Island of San Giulio, called “the island of silence”; Omegna and Valstrona, sunny and creative like Gianni Rodari, world-famous kid novels author who was born right on this magical lake in 1920.
