Article adapted from Virtuoso Traveler Magazine
Lapping waves, flapping sails, and sunsets over the water- lakeside vacations speak to us. Instead of heading to the Great Lakes this summer (or winter), try one of these spectacular locations. With beautiful Virtuoso properties, incredible scenery and amenities, you can’t go wrong!
LAKE TITICACA-Andean oasis and ancient Incan stomping ground
Sacred to its native cultures, South America’s largest- and
highest navigable- lake sprawls along the border of southern Peru and western
Bolivia. More than 25 rivers empty into its reed-fringed shores, and the ruins
of centuries-old temples and dwellings occupy many of its mountain-marked
islands.
THE EXPERIENCE
Though hydrofoils, barges, steamships, and wooden rowboats
cruise its waters, Titicaca’s immensity means the lake radiates peace and
solitude. Framed by jagged Andean peaks, its limpid surface reflects
low-hanging clouds by day and a glittering, star-studded canvas at night. With
many of the lakes 41 islands considered sacred, descendants of the Incas still
pay homage at spots such as the Island of the Sun. Drawn by its bevy of birds,
ornithologists enthuse over Titicaca’s shores, and sightseers make cultural
visits to Isla Suriqui, where the art of reed-boat construction still survives.
A visit to the “floating islands,” an archipelago made entirely from totora
reeds is also a must.
THE STAY
Pisco sours, vibrant
textiles, and panoramic views from each of Titilaka’s
18 suites immerse guests in the world of the Andes. This sleek, intimate lodge
offers a variety of excursions, including island-hopping, hiking, kayaking, and
wildlife viewing. Unravel any knots with a one-hour massage per room,
complimentary for Virtuoso guests.
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| Carolyn and Richard Frank |
LAKE COMO- Italian
playground for the crème de la crème
With its unusual wishbone shape and dramatic setting against a
backdrop of snow-kissed peaks, this cobalt-colored lake an hour from Milan has
lured many luminaries and
celebrities to its shores.
THE EXPERIENCE
Perhaps best maneuvered in a red Ferrari, the twisting roads
that fringe Lake Como define the region’s jet-set spirit. In summertime, the
lake is a veritable child’s toy-filled bathtub of activity, with Jet Skis,
sailboats, wind surfers, and swimmers splashing in its glacial waters. First
popularized by Victorian travelers, this resort destination retains some belle
epoque grandeur, exhibited in the architecture of shoreside villages such as
Bellagio, Tremezzo, and Como. Snazzy boutiques, waterfront eateries, and gelato
shops brim with hot-weather crowds, but romantic nooks can be found for those
who desire something more reclusive. End your day with an evening saunter along
the lakeside promenades.
THE STAY
Like most hotels of its pedigree in Italy’s Lake District, Grand Hotel Tremezzo
occupies the heart of a terrace-laced park. Providing lake views galore, this
art nouveau property proudly bears its heritage in drawing rooms and period
decor. The 97-room classic exhibits an Italian zest for fashion with bright
colors and an eclectic mix of modern art. Virtuoso guests can toast their stay
with a complimentary three-flight wine tasting at the hotel’s wine bar.
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| Augie Paniagua |
LAKE LOUISE- Canadian
backcountry in Banff National Park
Like a mirror, this turquoise lake reflects the towering pine
trees and mountains that surround it. A pristine retreat in Alberta’s Rockies,
the area earns its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
THE EXPERIENCE
It takes commitment to make the trek here. Though far-flung,
the lake can still be reached by train as it was in the Victorian era, when
well-heeled travelers first christened the region a vacation wonderland,
popular for its hot springs. In the winter, tour the area aboard horse-drawn
sleigh- warmed by a buffalo robe and with hot chocolate in hand, of course- or
swirl across the nature-made ice rink on skates. Summertime transforms the spot
into a splashy playground: Bike or hike the lakeshore trail, with puts you
face-to-face with Victoria Glacier, a vista so beautiful that it’s impossible
to take a bad photo of it.
THE STAY
As lofty as its surroundings, The
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
reigns as queen of the Canadian Rockies. Regal and castle-like, the 487-room
property manages to be both stately and welcoming, extravagant and casual-
attributes that ensure it’s as ideal for families as for honeymooners. The
hotel treats Virtuoso guests to a professional portrait session and a framed
photo souvenir.
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| Patti and John Zussman |
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