Newlyweds in search of the ultimate minimoon experience with a side of dolce vita need look no further than the new offering from Hilton Lake Como and Hilton Molino Stucky Venice. An intoxicatingly romantic blend of city, nature, culture and relaxation – and connected via train between Como and Venice – the minimoon is the perfect choice for lovers looking to experience two of the jewels of Northern Italy.
Hilton Molino Stucky Venice
The elopement begins at Hilton Molino Stucky Venice, the iconic Venetian hotel and former flour mill on Giudecca island. The perfect pick for couples looking to combine the city of canals with a tranquil and romantic retreat, the expert concierge will be on hand throughout to organize a range of memorable experiences, including:
‘Love Atelier’ Perfume-making Workshop – Newlyweds will have the chance to bottle a lasting memory of their most special adventure yet thanks to a bespoke perfume workshop with The Merchant of Venice, a local brand of artistic perfumery. Taking place at the historic Studium bookshop near St. Mark’s Square, the ‘Love Atelier’ workshop provides an introduction to the Venetian art of perfume and the opportunity for the couple to craft a personalized fragrance of one’s own. A journey for all the senses, guests will uncover the fascinating Venetian history of perfume over the centuries, the science of olfaction (the sense of smell) and the most important raw and synthesis materials, finishing by designing the pyramid of a fragrance. Guided step-by-step by experts, participants will compose their very own personalised fragrance, providing them with a lasting memento of their trip.
Couples’ Gondola Rides – No elopement to Venice would be complete without the city’s most enchanting couples’ experience, the iconic Gondola tour. Guests will be whisked away by boat and on foot by an English-speaking guide for a two-hour romantic journey. Couples will watch in awe as they glide past hidden and historic palaces, local houses and hidden alleyways off the beaten path. As they cozy up in the comfort of their private gondola, they can admire the Bridge of Sighs and hear the Venetian legends and folktales, even retracing the footsteps of Giacomo Casanova, Venice’s famous writer, poet and notorious lover and seducer! A professional photographer can also by arranged, ensuring treasured memories are captured forever.
Venetian Romance Couples’ Massage – Spa-lovers will delight in the opportunity to unwind à deux with a ‘Venetian Romance’ couples’ treatment at eForea Spa. The deeply relaxing full-body massage– available either at the spa or in-suite – comprises personalized hot aromatic oil and smooth, relaxing movements that will evoke the gentle tidal motion of a gondola. A top-to-toe therapy that couples will enjoy side-by-side, it promises an instant boost in mood and well-being, leaving clients fully relaxed and ready to enjoy the rest of their post-nuptial escape.
Romantic Dining Experiences – Those in search of a gourmet adventure with a side of romance will be spoilt for choice with a range of dining experiences across the property. For a truly memorable gourmet experience, couples can enjoy the very special tasting menu at Aromi, Hilton Molino Stucky Venice’s seasonal fine-dining restaurant. Here, they will enjoy sumptuous dishes by Executive Chef Ivan Fargnoli that fuse the very best of Italian cuisine with international influences, such as lobster and langoustine tartare, cucumber and tabasco sorbet, coconut milk. Couples who cannot bear to tear themselves away from their suite can also opt for a spot of in-room dining, accompanied by a bottle of champagne – or two! – and chocolate-covered strawberries.
Formerly a flour mill factory on the peaceful island of Giudecca, Hilton Molino Stucky Venice is a modern Venetian masterpiece steeped in history. This listed building has been beautifully restored with a series of recent refurbishments, including 24 new suites by famed interior designer Biagio Forino unveiled in April 2024. After arriving by water taxi, guests will be spoiled for choice with 379 rooms and suites, one of the largest spas in Venice, and a collection of bars and restaurants. Hilton Molino Stucky Venice is home to one of two eforea Spas in Italy; the other eforea Spa location is available at sister property Hilton Lake Como.
Hilton Lake Como
The next stop on this blissful bucket-list retreat is Hilton Lake Como, just three hours from Venice via scenic train ride. The waterside oasis is the ideal base for exploring Italy’s most famous lake à deux. Couples can check in to 2–3-night stay in a sumptuous suite, such as a Lake View Suite with Balcony, which offers the most arresting views in Como. Featuring a king-sized serenity bed, a luxurious bathroom complete with a bathtub and walk-in rain shower, the suites also offer a separate living area. The pièce de résistance, however, is the balcony that overlooks the water and provides the perfect sipping spot for toasting to a long and happy marriage!
Welcome Dinner and Drinks at Terrazza 241 – There’s no better way to kick off a minimoon in style than with an indulgent meal at Hilton Lake Como’s Terrazza 241, situated on the hotel’s rooftop and offering stunning views across the lake. Newly designed, the restaurant and bar are surrounded by rolling mountains, lush foliage, and panoramic views of the crystal blue Lago. Terrazza 241 showcases a seasonal menu crafted exclusively with local ingredients of the region. Honeymooners can expect a culinary experience that evolves throughout the year, from bright, fresh creations in the warmer months to richer, comforting specialties as the seasons turn. The rooftop bar remains one of the lake’s most beloved spots for a scenic sip, where couples can elevate their evening with a drink of choice from the signature Spritz Menu.
Private Boat Rides on the Lake – A boating trip on the lake is a must when in Como, and Hilton Lake Como’s private offering offers the most romantic choice of all. Couples will cruise Lake Como at their own pace, soaking up the sunset with a fine bottle of prosecco for company. Their personal captain and expert local guide will navigate them through the Lake’s secret spots and famous villas alongside visits to the most beautiful villages.
Celebration of Love Couples Spa Treatment – Spa-loving newlyweds will delight in the opportunity to unwind à deux at eForea Spa, with an 80-minute ‘Celebration of Love’ treatment. The treatment includes a full-body candle massage using a special shea and mango butter massage candle to warm, relax and regenerate the body. This is followed by the application of anti-fatigue eye patches and a restorative head and scalp massage to oxygenate the face and leave couples fresh and ready to enjoy their minimoon. Following the treatment, couples can enjoy eforea’s spoiling wellness area – complete with indoor pool, hammam, sauna, hydromassage and relaxation area – along with a glass of prosecco to toast to their love story.
Hilton Lake Como is a modern lifestyle hotel with spectacular scenery, traditional charm, and jaw-dropping 360-degree views of the lake from its rooftop pool. Formerly a silk factory, the building is steeped in history and is now home to 170 spacious guest rooms, with a variety of stunning suites to choose from, a pampering spa and a popular rooftop cocktail bar and restaurant. The hotel is ideally located in an area full of unique experiences on and off the lake, which has made Lake Como an international must-visit destination for families, business travellers and couples alike.
