The hotel Belvedere is in a beautiful location.  Our room had a balcony with a view of the lake, yet the hotel is above the village of Bellagio so it is very quiet.  We called the hotel when we arrived by ferry from Varenna—exhausted—and were happy to see a golf cart from the hotel arrive to take us up the hill.  The hotel is within walking distance of the shopping areas and the lake.  It has a wonderful pool and a “panoramic hot tub” which lives up to its name!  There is also a spa which we did not take time to use.

We ate in the restaurant both evenings we were at the hotel.  The first night was good—the lake fish, Lavarello, is wonderful and was very well prepared. The second night was an “only in Italy” type of evening.  The  dinner was wonderful—we had a smoked swordfish and tuna salad that was delicious.  We also had veal (me) (lamb, my husband) and gelato.  Both evenings our table was by the window so we could enjoy the views of the lake.

Prior to coming to dinner the second night we noticed a bride and a groom, with 2 other people, standing in the outdoor section of the restaurant.  The bride was lovely and carried a bouquet.  The other woman, also beautiful and elegantly dressed in black, was taking pictures.  We expected a reception or some sort.  Later in the restaurant we noticed first the wedding cake, then the bridal couple and her friends. When they cut the cake the whole dining room applauded.   Soon her friend was taking pictures of everyone.  The atmosphere became quite festive as we greeted the bride and met our fellow diners.  We learned the bridal party were all Americans.  The evening ended as we were served a piece of wedding cake—expertly sliced by the wait staff.  The hotel staff acted as if this happened every day!  Perhaps at the Belvedere Hotel, it does!