italian cuisine
The Locanda
In 1948 the silk manufacturer Carlo Sacchi and the speedboat racing champion Sandro De Col, notwithstanding the curse, contacted Lino Nessi with the proposal to start up a Locanda (inn) on the Island, at that time only inhabited by snakes. Sandro De Col suddenly died in a motorboat accident, while Carlo Sacchi was killed at Villa d'Este by Countess Bellentani. Having lost his heart, Lino Nessi was about to give it up when the English writer Francis Dale suggested him an exorcism, now known as "the exorcism of fire". italian cuisine
Since then, every time somebody has a meal at the Locanda dell'Isola, the fire ceremony is performed. italian cuisine
From a neglected, cursed, excommunicated land, a new tradition of hospitality was born and still thrives, open to everybody, no matter what nationality or religion.
Guests are sacred on the Island, where every member of the staff is eager to meet your wishes. Here you will find a small Eden exuding poetry and charm, a place where you can enjoy the ever changing colours of the landscape during the day, and a unique, enchanting atmosphere enhanced by the village lights reflected in the lake in the evening. italian cuisine
The fame of the Locanda began with Lino Nessi (known as "Cotoletta", i.e. "Cutlet") and continues thanks to Benvenuto Puricelli, the present owner. A stop over here is a must for travellers visiting Europe and Italy, retracing the steps of several famous people from all over the world. Have a look at our Guest Book.
The Locanda is "an exclusive, unique place, different from all the other restaurants".
The restaurant, right on the lake, is bright even in the coldest months and it is the ideal setting for a meal in summer, thanks to the gentle breeze blowing from the lake. It can accommodate up to 200 guests.
Neither the original menu created by Cotoletta nor the flavours have been changed by Benvenuto Puricelli. italian cuisine