Giardinetto

The story

Giardinetto in Pettenasco: Lakeside Dining at a Michelin-Recommended Hotel on Lake Orta

The four-star Hotel Ristorante Giardinetto sits directly on the banks of Lake Orta, in Pettenasco, Piedmont. From its terrace and rooftop bar, the view over the water is immediate – an oasis of tranquillity that has drawn guests for nearly a century.

A Family Story

Giardinetto began in 1930 as an inn, founded by Luciano Primatesta, who served fried fish fresh from the lake. After the Second World War, a petrol pump was added, then simple accommodation with drinking water in the rooms. Luciano’s son, Oreste, trained at the renowned Hotel and Catering School in Stresa and gained experience abroad before taking over in 1962. He modernised the business while raising the profile of Lake Orta, supported by his wife Caterina.

Their children stayed in hospitality: Cinzia now runs the three-Michelin-starred Villa Crespi with her husband Antonino Cannavacciuolo, while Ezio took over Giardinetto. He continues the family tradition with passion, overseeing both the hotel and the restaurant.

The Dining Experience

The restaurant focuses on refined Mediterranean cuisine with a modern sensibility. The kitchen’s attention to detail is matched by an unparalleled lake view – the site describes it as “the most romantic lake in Italy.” The quality of the experience has earned Giardinetto a place in the Michelin guide, where it is recognised as Recommended.

An Exceptional Wine Cellar

Ezio, a qualified AIS sommelier, has built a wine cellar that now lists over 852 labels. The selection ranges from well-known producers to small gems, with a strong focus on natural, organic, and biodynamic wines. The temperature-controlled cellar can be opened for private tastings. Throughout the season, the restaurant hosts special evenings with wine producers, allowing guests to meet the makers and taste directly.

Beyond the Table

The rooftop bar (“Roof Top Relax Bar”) offers a terrace where you can unwind with cocktails and finger food while watching the sunset over the lake. The hotel also serves as a base for exploring the medieval village of Orta San Giulio, the UNESCO-listed Sacro Monte, and the island of San Giulio, often called one of the most beautiful islands in the world.

Giardinetto remains what it has always been: a family affair rooted in the lake, where Mediterranean and modern cuisine are served with genuine warmth.