The shimmering waters of Lake Como could be right out of a movie set. In addition to singer John Legend tying the knot on Lake Como, actress Emily Blunt got married there too.

During a recent visit to Grand Hotel Tremezzo, I saw one couple engaged in a candlelit proposal, another couple’s wedding being set up and a bride and groom speeding off into the sunset in one of the hotel’s water taxis; the bride’s long, white veil fluttering behind in the breeze. Twelve acres of lush garden greenery surround this majestic, century-old palace filled with sumptuously-appointed rooms, plush salons, multiple restaurants, three pools and a spa. Indeed, it’s a glorious destination for a wedding or honeymoon.

“We host at least 40 couples (wedding and honeymooners) a month,” says Delia Facchini, the hotel’s Public Relations Manager. “This seductive resort offers stunning views over the lake and town of Bellagio, which, with its twinkling lights, creates the perfect backdrop for a wedding or candlelit dinner for two.”

Most couples reserve one of the lake-view suites, such as the Honeymoon Suite Maria with a rose-colored sitting room, taupe-white bedroom and round, red Verona marble whirlpool, or a rooftop suite with private butler service, panoramic views of Lake Como and a lounging pool.

For ceremonies at the hotel, stunning locations abound, including the sunken back garden.

“We like to reserve the enchanting space for the most special occasions, like wedding ceremonies or a couple’s first dinner together as husband and wife,” says Facchini. “That is why – in the sunken back garden – we have reserved a very special spot for couples, for romantic suppers and unforgettable private encounters.”

Additionally, guests can now marry or host a soiree at nearby Villa Sola Cabiati, built in the 1600s for a descendent of Charles II, King of Naples. With marble balconies and two wings, this neoclassical villa has opulent rooms in gelato hues of cream, pink, yellow, mint and baby blue, all with their original terrazzo floors, ceiling frescos and furnishings. Be sure to see the bed Napoleon Bonaparte once slept in on the second floor.

For pre- or post-wedding bliss, visit the hotel’s 1,000-foot spa housed in the 18th century Villa Emilia. It has the only hammam on Lake Como and a heated indoor infinity pool overlooking the water.

Not surprisingly, the cuisine at Grand Hotel Tremezzo is superb. Enjoy lattes and a buffet breakfast on the sunny terrace of La Terrazza Restaurant, which at night serves elegantly prepared fish, pastas, meats and the chef’s signature saffron risotto topped with gold leaf. For more casual meals, stop by L’Escale Trattoria and Wine Bar, T Pizza or T Beach, where you can sip bubbly at the Pommery Champagne bar overlooking the hotel’s “floating” lake pool.

Although you may be tempted to simply snuggle at the hotel, stroll next door to Villa Carlotta to see its sun-dappled botanical garden. Bellagio (only ten minutes by ferry across the lake) has fabulous shopping – jewelry, shoes, linen and lingerie – in the small shops lining the hilly back streets, while the 18th century Villa del Balbianello, accessible by the hotel’s water taxi, is where the 2006 James Bond remake, “Casino Royale,” was filmed, along with “Star Wars: Episode II.”

But, of course, Grand Hotel Tremezzo is where you’ll set your most romantic scenes. It’s “that happy sunny place” says actress Greta Garbo in the 1932 film, “Grand Hotel,” where you and your sweetheart will star in the most amorous moments of your life, whether it’s saying, “I do” or celebrating having just said it.

This article first appeared in Destination I Do’s Spring/Summer 2018 issue. You can order a copy here.