Embarking on the Future: A Voyage Initiated Over Two Centuries Ago

Initially known as Villa Merlina, a refined baroque-style villa constructed around 1870 by the Viglezio-Vanoni family on the shores of Lake Lugano, it underwent a transformation in 1887. Albino Guidi and Tranquillo Clerici purchased the villa and, envisioning a hotel, renamed it Hotel Splendide. In December of that year, management transitioned to Riccardo Fedele Gianella, with the support of his cousin Vincenzo Fedele. Subsequent enhancements included the addition of two floors and the establishment of a picturesque lakefront garden.

In 1902, under the ownership of Riccardo Fedele Gianella, the first restoration of the building was initiated, spearheaded by architect Paolito Somazzi. By 1924, Riccardo Fedele, the grandson and newly appointed hotel manager, erected annex named Villa Maria just a short distance from the Splendide, expanding the hotel's capacity to 125 beds. Over time, the Splendide evolved into a preferred holiday retreat for prominent celebrities and sovereigns across Europe, leading to the decision to append "Royal" to the hotel's name.

In 1959, Fedele Genazzini assumes the role of the new hotel director, alongside his cousin Riccardo Moranzoni. Due to its commitment to high-quality standards, the renowned Splendide Royal Lugano is welcomed into the esteemed portfolio of "The Leading Hotels of the World" the following year. In 1977, a significant transition occurs as the heirs of Genazzini and Fedele, the hotel's former directors, sell the property to the Naldi family. Aniello Lauro is subsequently appointed as the hotel director under the new ownership.

Under the stewardship of the Naldi family, the hotel undergoes transformative renovations, earning it a coveted position among the "Swiss Deluxe Hotels," an accolade reserved for Switzerland's most esteemed establishments. In 1983, the old annex is replaced by a new executive wing. The year 1990 marks the appointment of Roberto Naldi as the hotel's new president, ushering in a phase of significant renovations encompassing both rooms and communal spaces. In 1991, the hotel proudly secures membership in the esteemed association of "Locali Storici d’Italia."

In 2008, Giuseppe Rossi, succeeding Aniello Lauro, assumes the role of the new hotel director. Concurrently, the Splendide achieves significant quality certifications in the same year, securing both the ISO 9001 mark and the prestigious "QQQ" designation bestowed by Switzerland Tourism. By 2014, the hotel attains the highest classification in Switzerland, ascending to the status of a 5-star superior establishment.

In the subsequent year, the "Splendide Shamba" project is inaugurated, reflecting a commitment to social responsibility and eco-sustainability. This initiative culminates in the establishment of a farm in Kenya.

In 2016, the Splendide Royal collects the prestigious international "Happy Guest Award" from The Leading Hotels of the World. The following year, Domenico Ruberto, the Splendide's chef, earns the esteemed title of "Canton Ticino's Revelation Chef" as bestowed by the renowned French restaurant guide Gault Millau. 2018 witnesses the inauguration of I Due Sud, the flagship restaurant at Splendide, blending the flavors of southern Italy and southern Switzerland, and it earns an impressive 16 points from the Gault Millau guide.

The period from 2019 to 2020 marks the introduction of new spaces for enhanced enjoyment. In 2019, the Panorama event room is unveiled, capable of accommodating up to 300 people and offering breathtaking views of Mount Brè and the lake. Simultaneously, the Splendide Lifestyle Spa, a contemporary wellness sanctuary, is inaugurated. The summer of the same year sees the opening of La Piazzetta, a new panoramic lounge terrace. In 2020, the Splendide earns a coveted spot in the exclusive selection of Fine Hotels and Resorts.

In 2021, a little over two years since its inauguration, I Due Sud restaurant receives its inaugural Michelin Star. Within the same year, Swisstainable bestows the Splendide with an initial "committed" certification, subsequently elevating it to the "engaged" status in 2023, acknowledging the hotel's dedication to sustainable development across economic, environmental, and social dimensions.

Furthering its commitment to corporate social responsibility, Giuseppe Rossi is honored with the EHMA Sustainable Award by Diversey in Lisbon in 2023. This international accolade recognizes hotel directors actively involved in fostering sustainability.

As we stand on the cusp of today and tomorrow, we eagerly co-author the unfolding chapters of our history with you!