The values and principles of Villa Crespi, for a more lively, sustainable planet
The principles and values of Villa Crespi are to ensure new generations a planet full of life and sustainability, flourishing nature and hope, where they can nurture their dreams and experience excitement and emotions.
Dear friends,
We would like to thank you for the trust you’ve given to our wonderful Residence during the summer season. You were extraordinary and very supportive in this incredibly delicate period our country and the whole world has been living.
The difficult health emergency that once again is putting us to the test, certainly has not taken away our desire to be ready, more than ever. We aim to make your stay at Villa Crespi as harmonious and safe as possible.
This is why Villa Crespi has proudly decided to makes its mark, to project its values and principles into the future and ensure new generations a planet full of life and sustainability, flourishing nature and hope, where they can nurture their dreams and experience excitement and emotions.
The hope … we see in your eyes upon arrival … we see in your smiles as you savor the dishes we have carefully paired with local organic products chosen daily, farm-to-table for you, along with herbs grown directly by our gardeners and picked by our staff in the garden corner of our century-old park.
Respect and safety
We take care when cleaning the rooms and common areas, which is done exclusively with steam. A dedicated vacuum cleaner is used to remove dust and filter the air with the natural energy of water, thereby reducing allergy symptoms. All mattresses and pillows are covered with soft, certified anti-mite mattress covers and cases. Our housekeepers use, in all rooms and suites, ozone sanitizing, which, in this delicate period, enables us to provide maximum cleanliness and hygiene of private spaces during your stay.
This past year we have integrated not only in the areas dedicated to guests but also in all those used by our employees, a state-of-the-art active sanitization system using advanced technology capable of eliminating most of the pollutants in the air. The same system was developed and used by NASA to sanitize the areas destined for aerospace missions.
Protecting our planet
We have focused on safeguarding the environment, and we do so with small daily actions to help reduce and efficiently manage waste.
For example, the amenities found in our rooms and suites are made of glass as we try to reduce the use of plastic as much as possible.
Our goal is to become a Plastic Free facility by 2021.
Aware of the immeasurable value nature offers us, we are trying to adopt all the necessary precautions to become an organic whole with the richness of the environment around us. We’ve been doing this since 2018, when we decided to devote a part of our park to 5 beehives. We care for them daily, and in return, we are gifted with delicious honey you can enjoy in the morning at breakfast or find in our desserts.
Villa Crespi also devotes particular attention to energy consumption. The very reason we have launched an energy efficiency program to track and manage energy consumption while avoiding any potential waste in each department. A small gesture that may seem trivial, but has long since become a rule in our house, is the use of energy-efficient light bulbs wherever possible. All rooms and suites have a new system of valves for the air conditioning and heating systems designed to ensure energy efficiency. Each guest can control the temperature inside their own room. With this system, we can significantly reduce energy waste.
We would also like to proudly share with you how we’ve taken care of our most precious assets. Since 2006, thanks to a purification plant, all drinking water used at Villa Crespi gets purified. This system makes it possible for us to provide better, more natural tasting dishes and water you can drink in total safety. Since 2017 Villa Crespi has two dedicated EV charging stations, allowing us to assist you in recharging your car during your stay if necessary.
The importance of a single gesture
These past few months and the one we are currently living can only lead us to think carefully, to think about each single gesture, even those most obvious ones, which can help us all to improve together. Conveying this thought, as well as our philosophy of hospitality and cuisine, is for us an integral part of what represents the Villa Crespi experience.
We wish to give you an opportunity to join us, to face together the future that lies ahead….today with a bit of uncertainty but with the desire to « live » that ties us together now more than ever.
A chat with Cinzia Primatesta Cannavacciuolo
A fresh start. For everyone, finally. Even Villa Crespi is ready to reopen its doors, the same team and same enthusiasm as always, « but with a new awareness of time, which we have to retrieve and savor once again. »
Cinzia Primatesta, the owner of Villa Crespi, clearly has an idea of the possibilities post-COVID reopening phase could offer. To confidently look towards the future, and turn the page, it is time to take stock of these extremely unusual 60+ days.
Cinzia, how did you deal with the closure in March?
It was an intense and obviously very sad moment. But we were aware that closing was the safest and most logical solution for dealing with the first period of the epidemic. Our attention immediately turned to the well-being of our employees and staff. We wanted to maintain a sense of team and belonging, and could continue to do so thanks to the technology we now have available. This time didn’t go to waste; our staff had the chance of participating in any training course of their choice. At the same time, we were also thinking of our guests.
Your guests? In what way?
Simply by letting them know we were here. A phone call. A message. A gesture of solidarity. A little something not necessarily related to a commercial, economic or customer-supplier relationship, in a time of general difficulty.
What are your thoughts on the situation our planet is going through?
I believe we need to find a deeper meaning. We have an opportunity to focus on complex issues which affect everyone personally. Key themes such as pollution and respect for the earth and water surrounding us. We need to invest in the well-being of the environment and people. By dedicating first a bit of attention to ourselves, we can do good for the community and the environment; taking care of ourselves both mentally and physically, and eating healthily. Choosing local and seasonal products, for example. Discovering their naturally rich nutrients and ingredients. Selecting local markets and businesses. Eating well also means having a better immune system. As well as getting back to helping each other from the start. We still don’t know the full effect of this pandemic. We’ll only be able to understand in the months to come.
What new measures will be introduced within the structure?
Obviously, we are waiting to see all the regulations we will have to comply with. But at Villa Crespi nothing much will change from a logistical point of view. For example, the dining rooms have always been designed to provide guests with complete discretion. Without forgetting that we have been using particular sanitizing systems inside all the rooms at Villa Crespi for years now, state-of-the-art technology operating non-stop for perfect and constant fresh air ventilation.
Any major changes?
Our great surprise is going to be the garden restaurant. An idea we have had in mind for a long time and which only sped up during this lockdown. We now have the opportunity of offering our culinary excellence in the Villa’s garden. A very special fusion. We are studying to offer weekly menus, balanced and nutritious, along side the possibility of physical activity in the open air. Even a leisurely walk, which in addition to being great for vitamin D, is also refreshing for the body and spirit.
What are your feelings about this new start?
We are looking forward to starting again. And are delighted to be able to carry on with our mission, vision and work ethic. We wish to bewitch our guests, exactly as before. Our philosophy of hospitality is still that of welcoming guests into a world of authentic Italian charm where they might enjoy a new summer of life. We want to make time and dedicate a new awareness to those moments of happiness we experience.
Cinzia Cannavacciuolo tell her love story
I’m Cinzia Primatesta, Antonino Cannavacciuolo’s wife and business partner.
I still remember the day I was sitting in a car parked outside of Villa Crespi. It was in the middle of the nineties, and I was with my father and one of his friends. I remember him recommending my father a young Neapolitan chef for some months’ work in our hotel. Obviously, the young Chef was Antonino, but little did I know that that conversation would change my life forever.
23 years later, I still remember the moment Antonino entered the family hotel to await his interview. He was sitting in the hall.. this is incredible, really! I mean, through the years, you see many people walking in and out to attend their interviews. But his interview…somehow I felt there was something special about this one. I felt a bond with him.
I think it’s a significant factor that I was struck by his charisma since the very first day. So far, Antonino’s charisma remains his distinctive mark. We started working long hours together. So, our relationship slowly evolved and became a true love story.
Discover our new winter menu
Discover the perfumes and flavors of winter, the centerpiece of our new winter menu, designed by Chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo.
With the arrival of winter, Antonino, together with his brigade, will bring out the flavors of the season with his new creations which will celebrate the simple and marvelous ingredients found traditionally in Southern and Northern Italy.
Among the new winter menu are some key ingredients coming from the Chef’s homeland, Campania, combined with the excellence of classic Piedmontese tradition.
Indulge in the winter menu: local snails, white turnips, Piedmont’s « salsa verde » (traditional parsley sauce) and breaded amberjack fish, turnip greens and « bagna càuda » (delicious anchovy and garlic sauce) as an appetizer. The first courses give way to Carnaroli rice, local butter, sage and smoked herring and you just have to try one of the second courses like the lobster and caviar with chicken broth or the suckling pork with chestnuts, celery and chervil root. Finish off with a little something sweet, chestnuts, persimmons and Christmas Panettone.
Inside the Michelin two-star restaurant, choose something from the à la carte menu or enjoy the carefully designed experience for a gourmet lunch or dinner set in the uniquely magical surroundings of Villa Crespi.
Contact Information
Lunch: Wednesday to Sunday
Dinner: Tuesday to Sunday
Monday: closed all day
For information:
Call +39 0322 911902, from 10 am to 7 pm
The Best Italian Restaurant In the World is Villa Crespi
People Consider Villa Crespi As the Best Italian Restaurant In the World
Villa Crespi looks like a dream in people’s minds. Sometimes, the every-day reality is better than dreams. Today, Villa Crespi has certainly lived one of those days. Why? Because Trip Advisor named Villa Crespi the third-best restaurant in the world.
Villa Crespi is also the third-best restaurant in the world and the second-best in Europe.
For the first time in its history, Villa Crespi’s success is international. And so are the dreams of those who look after it every day: from Cinzia and Antonino Cannavacciuolo to maître Massimo Raugi; from General Manager Stefania Siani to sous-chefs Simone Corbo and Gabriele Tatzi; from the kitchen to the office staff.
Trip Advisor: The Truth First
Villa Crespi’s Family achieved an important goal together. TripAdvisor represents the most democratic voice of high cuisine.
On TA, users may express extremely different opinions: there, you“Get the Truth, Then Go.”
In this case, the reality is that Villa Crespi is world excellence.
“TRB Hutong,” in Beijing, and “Epicure,” in Paris, are the only ones before Antonino Cannavacciuolo on the list.
Twenty years of Success to become the third-best restaurant in the world.
In the same year of the Twentieth anniversary of Villa Crespi, Cinzia and Antonino Cannavacciuolo have succeeded in another objective.
After hearing the news, they stated:
« Such a result makes us proud and satisfied.
If we compare this year to the previous years, we notice that our presence abroad has grown stronger.
We thank every person who chose to be one of our guests, and that reviewed us positively.
We will spend this wonderful moment with our collaborators. Without them, we would not achieve these important goals.”
No choice but to wait for the future success of Cannavacciuolo and Primatesta’s family; given how the last years were, we are sure they will not disappoint us.
"Coccole e Relax" package designed by Cinzia Cannavacciuolo
Discover the luxurious package for a bit of pampering and relaxation designed for you by Cinzia Cannavacciuolo
« Coccole e Relax » includes a tasting menu with offerings from the South to the North of Italy along with selected wines.
There are many ways to experience Villa Crespi, but only one has been specifically designed by Cinzia Primatesta Cannavacciuolo, Coccole & Relax, where you can enjoy an exclusive break at the Moorish villa overlooking Lake Orta, benefit from the Michelin-starred cuisine and unique personal well-being and treatments.
Three nights at Villa Crespi with à la carte breakfast served in your room
« Coccole e Relax » includes a 3-night stay at Villa Crespi in a selected room or suite with a la carte breakfast served directly in your room.
Visit Chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo’s kitchen
The « Coccole e Relax« package includes a 2-hour experience in the kitchen of Villa Crespi’s 2-star Michelin restaurant. A captivating and in-depth tour unveiling the secrets of one of Italy’s most renowned and coveted restaurants. It is here, within this sacred place, that cuisine becomes an art. Come and see how and why it happens. We are waiting for you from 9.30 to 11.30 am.
From the South to the North of Italy – a romantic dinner for two
The « Coccole e Relax« package includes a romantic dinner for two at Villa Crespi’s 2-star Michelin restaurant. You’ll have the unique opportunity of enjoying an authentic food and wine journey created by Chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo. His cooking philosophy combines his two « homes » – Piedmont, his adopted region, and Campania, his native region. These two territories come together, ingredients are fused; cheeses and meats from Piedmont with the pasta and fish of the Mediterranean, to create a fresh and savory culinary experience together with carefully selected wines to enhance the evolving innovative menu. Villa Crespi‘s wine cellars, one for reds and the other for sparkling wines, champagnes and white wines, are ideal for storing the bottles at the best temperature and humidity.
Personalised well-being and relaxation massages
With the « Coccole e Relax« package, guests can choose between the Sound of Silence deep full body relaxation treatment (75 minutes) or the exclusive holistic Onyricon treatment (60 minutes).
Which one should be chosen?
Sound of Silence, deep full body relaxation treatment
This treatment rebalances one’s mind and body. It also stimulates the body’s flow of energy with specific hand movements made to the head and body. This ritual includes, in addition to the body massage, a wonderful facial mask.
Onyricon, holistic treatment
Exclusive holistic treatment deeply affects the body’s senses, which results in a state of deep peace, well-being and psychophysical tranquillity as it naturally stimulates one’s nervous system. During treatment, particular hand movements are carried out on the body’s fundamental points and meridians tied to sleep/wake rhythms. It’s perfect for tackling stress, insomnia, jet leg, as well as anxiety.
« Coccole e Relax« – additional offered services
In addition to the « Coccole e Relax« package, a number of further exclusive services are available on request:
- Private limousine service to and from Turin or Milan airports.
- Boat ride with visit to the island of San Giulio.
- Champagne rosé afternoon tea, with fresh pastries and savory delicacies.
COCCOLE E RELAX
E-bike experience on the Lake Orta
Lake Orta and its Riviera offer a wide range of diverse experiences.
From « classic » food and wine itineraries or something a bit more romantic, passing through small villages in the valley or one of the many neoclassical villas scattered throughout the territory as far as Mottarone with its numerous natural panoramic views unexpectedly peeping out along a road or a path.
And what better way to discover our lake? How about a healthy bicycle ride? Or better yet, how about an electric bike? A new and ecological way to explore our territory while respecting the environment and nature.
Villa Crespi now offers its guests E-bikes, epowered by Bosch.
Let yourself be tempted by the flatter, easier roads leading to the steeper ones where you get the chance to enjoy breathtaking views. You’ll never forget these sights and they’ll keep in your hearts and mind for years to come. The Bosch Group’s expertise in electric motors, sensors, displays and lithium-ion batteries will provide cyclists plenty of fun with their cutting-edge « Technology for Life ». Check with the concierge for the best times and interesting excursions.
Electronic bikes
Electronic bikes are an intelligent mobility system; an extremely agile and comfortable way of getting around nowadays. They also offer a number of benefits for your health, the environment and our society.
Exploring the Lake with the Villa Crespi e-bike
Here’s an idea for a ride around Lake Orta on bike. How about an easy, 35-kilometer, 200-meter-high ride lasting about 3 hours?
From Villa Crespi head towards Gozzano. From there, go towards Pogno and the Valsesia before turning right at the roundabout in the direction of San Maurizio d’Opaglio.
Once you’ve gone through San Maurizio, head in the direction of Alzo di Pella. At the roundabout under the rock of the Madonna del Sasso, keep left and follow along Via Cave.
After Alzo, take the slightly uphill road leading to Cesara and from there to Nonio and Brolo. At that point, you’ll finally head down to Omegna with its charming lakeside promenade, called Buozzi. After the hospital in Omegna, turn right and follow the signs for Borca. From here all you’ve got to do is ride along the flat stretch of road running along the lake. Head towards Pettenasco and then follow again the signs for Orta.
Cooking class on Lake Orta
The secrets of a starred Restaurant revealed with fun and simpleness…Cooking class on lake Orta
Spending time cooking is not only the daily duty of mothers and women, not only the Christmas meal, not only a candlelight dinner with one’s lover or a birthday but it is as well a refined art, a passion and a game.
It means to mix ingredients, colours, flavours, to know how to do it, to realize dishes in order to involve and excite both the cook and the eater. Step by step it is possible to prepare delicious recipes and to improve culinary skills.
Nowadays we read culinary guides, we watch programmes on TV, we ask grandmothers for recipes, we discuss on the internet, we listen to radio programmes about this argument… so, why do not attend a special cooking class?
Gli chef della brigata, interagiscono con tutta la loro allegria, mostrando le preparazioni ed i trucchi per una riuscita eccellente, di quelli che sono piatti facilmente riproducibili nelle case, per poter poi stupire amici, parenti ed amori.
Potersi dire: ho cucinato un antipasto, un primo piatto ed un dessert gourmet; potersi dire: l’ho fatto da solo….potersi dire: inventiamo variazioni, giochiamo e divertiamoci cucinando…
A cooking course in Villa Crespi is an interesting, amusing and exciting experience. Why don’t you make the most of this possibility of visiting one of the most well renowned kitchen? Our group of young and prepared cooks is ready to show and explain how to prepare some of the historical recipes of the Restaurant taken from the innovative mediterranean cuisine of Chef Cannavacciuolo. Spend two hours in a friendly environment, learn the recipes and the tricks to realize perfect meals to surprise your friends, your family and loves.
At the end, you will say
“Wow, I cooked a gourmet appetizer, a main course a dessert… I did it by myself…”
Play, invent, have fun…
Luxury Travel Guide - a special award for Villa Crespi
It's an authentic emotion to be chosen for important awards and this one is no exception.
The phone call from Patrick at Luxury Travel Guide telling us Villa Crespi had been awarded Luxury Lakeside Hotel of the Year was a surprise and pleasure and had us all whooping for joy. We are proud and excited to have been chosen "represent the pinnacle of hospitality achievement", and we quote Patrick again.
We are a very tight team at Villa Crespi, every success is shared, it is a joy doubled. So we are sharing this moment with our readers who are aware we are all working together for the same aims: to create an unforgettable experience for our guests, for you.
Our heartfelt thanks go to Luxury Travel Guide, we are thrilled that we have been chosen for this award by your jury of demanding professionals committed to the same overall excellence that at Villa Crespi is, and always has been, a byword.
An interview with Cinzia Primatesta, Antonino’s inspiring wife
How do you see Tony in five years?
“Tony’s creative growth certainly won’t stop.. I believe that in five years he will be more or less the same: he is curious, resolute, mature and he is able to create as if his work were a game, combining colours and tastes.
He is able to tickle the palate and to give as a gift deep emotions. I think that he can be considered a painter, an impressionist. The instinct behind his creations is something magic, a natural talent that allows him to express himself in every moment and in every place.
I can immagine him on a little boat, in the middle of a lake or, maybe in the beloved Mediterranean sea with a fishing rod looking for something new, for new innovative ideas, while the water is caressing his thoughts.
It is hard to say how the future will be. The most important things for Tony are family, the dearest ones around him, a lot of sons and his favourite natural element: water. These are the special ingredients he needs most in his life.
Professionally, he is lucky because he can decide the best for his future …
I am sure that he will choose the best for himself.. this is the better part of the life of an artist: surprise, instinct and mistery keep on exisiting in his life.
Cinzia Primatesta – General Manager of Villa Crespi