The Ritz-Carlton will make its debut in Italy in 2026 with the opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Bellagio on Lake Como. 

Parent company Marriott International has signed an agreement with Italian hospitality company Grandi Immobili Italiani Srl to restore the former Hotel Grande Bretagne, a historic Belle Époque property situated just outside the village of Bellagio. 

The hotel, which sits on the promontory of land between the two arms of Lake Como, was one of the destination’s first and most distinguished luxury hotels when it opened in 1850. The property fell into disuse at the end of the last century and has since been acquired by the Galbusera family with a vision to restore its prestigious reputation.

The waterfront property is set to undergo an extensive restoration and expansion project. Once complete, the hotel is slated to offer 59 guestrooms and 46 suites, including two Ritz-Carlton suites featuring luxurious furnishings and views of the lake. 

Comprehensive resort facilities are anticipated to include a destination spa complete with an indoor pool, casual and fine-dining restaurants, and state-of-the-art meeting and event facilities. 

Extensive parkland and gardens with reflect the typical landscape of the country’s Lombardy region and are expected to feature a meditation garden, a historical walking trail, a large outdoor swimming pool and a private boat dock to allow guests to access other destinations on the lake. 

The regeneration scheme is reported to be the most notable hospitality development project in the Lake Como area in recent years.

“We are thrilled to announce this landmark signing with Grimit Srl and to be part of such an important restoration of one of Italy’s most acclaimed destinations for luxury travellers,” said Candice D’Cruz, Marriott International’s vice president of luxury brands for Europe, Middle East and Africa. 

“Lake Como is the jewel in the crown of the Italian Lake district and we can think of no better destination to debut The Ritz-Carlton brand in Italy. This incredible development showcases our commitment to thoughtfully growing our iconic brand in destinations where we know our guests want to travel most, as well as strengthening our outstanding portfolio of properties across Marriott International’s luxury brands in Italy.” 

Emanuele Galbusera, president of Grimit Srl, added: "As a family, we are deeply rooted in the stunning area of Lake Como and are incredibly proud to be bringing The Ritz-Carlton brand to Bellagio.

"Our entrepreneurial spirit has made our family European leaders in the metal coil-coating sector with our business Lampre and we will take great pride in bringing that same dedication and passion to this remarkable project."