Fodor's Expert Review Villa Principe Leopoldo and Residence

Spectacularly perched on a hillside overlooking Lake Lugano, this mansion offers an unparalleled location and old-world service. Although the villa was built in 1868 for Prince Leopold of Hohenzollern, most of the rooms are either staidly modern or snoozily traditional, but this may not be an issue once you take a glance at the stunningly arranged pool-and-terrace complex encircled by a double staircase—a slightly baroque touch. Chef Dario Ranza is renowned for his risottos (saffron and chanterelles, for example, or pumpkin and zucchini flower), which make dining here a notable experience.