Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your family, and where you live? Additionally, what are the names of your accommodations?

I'm Cinzia Primatesta, born and raised on the shores of Lake Orta, in Piemonte, Northwest Italy. My husband, Antonino Cannavacciuolo, a Multi-Michelin starred chef from Naples, and I are the owners of Laqua by the Lake. Laqua by the Lake is a modern, spacious property ideal for families and events.

Can you tell us more about yourself? What are your interests, leisure activities, work, family, and vacations?

My upbringing was characterized by two things: people and nature. As a child of hotel owners, I learned the importance of guest well-being from a young age. However, nature was my family’s little escape—skiing, water sports, and simply enjoying the outdoors. These experiences have become central to my life, and I have passed on this love for nature and well-being to my children. When I’m not working, I enjoy skiing, water skiing, swimming, yoga, and meditation—activities that help me reconnect with my fondest childhood memories.

When and how did this accommodation come into your life, and what motivated you to make it a part of your life?

Hospitality has always been a part of my life. My family owns hotels, so it was a natural path for me. When I met my husband, who had a dream of becoming a great chef, we decided to open our own hotel. That was the beginning of our journey, and as our dreams grew, we expanded by opening a complementary accommodation—another location just 3 kilometers away.

Can you tell us more about the process of renovating and furnishing your accommodation?

The modern accommodation was fully renovated in 2021 during the pandemic, a challenging time for tourism. We wanted to create a modern, elegant, and minimalist space with the lake as the centerpiece. Each accommodation offers a private outdoor area and a fully equipped kitchen for comfort. We collaborated with a local interior design firm and chose neutral tones, clean lines, and natural accents to complement the architectural features. Even the outdoor spaces, including our pool and gourmet bistro, are designed for guests to fully enjoy the serene atmosphere of Lake Orta.

What makes your accommodation truly special to you? Are there notable memories or moments that make it dear to you?

The modern accommodation has become a cherished place for my family. My children love spending their summer days here, playing on the beach, swimming, and mingling with other children of guests. Seeing their interactions with guests in their own language, free from linguistic barriers, has made it feel like home for us. It is also a place where we have organized many wellness retreats, workshops, and concerts, making it a center for community and relaxation.

How would you describe the atmosphere and interior of your accommodation?

The moment you enter our reception, you are greeted by dimmed lights, natural textures, and a soft, welcoming scent. This space sets the tone for the entire accommodation. The suites are designed with earthy tones, deep warm woods, and large windows that invite the lake and light into the space. The atmosphere is tranquil, modern, and elegantly simple, with the natural beauty of the lake taking center stage.

Which part of your accommodation do you like the most, and why?

A part of the accommodation that I am particularly passionate about is the Wellness area. I strongly believe in the importance of well-being for body, mind, and soul. Our Wellness area, with a focus on cryotherapy, offers guests a unique and powerful experience to detox and rejuvenate. It is a space where they can disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with themselves.

What makes the location of your accommodation unique and special?

Lake Orta is a hidden gem, often overshadowed by the more popular lakes like Como or Garda. This means it is not overwhelmed by mass tourism, ensuring a peaceful and authentic experience. The region offers much—UNESCO World Heritage sites, pristine waters for water sports, charming medieval towns, and access to the Alps. It is a perfect mix of natural beauty, culture, and outdoor adventure.

Are there sustainable or eco-friendly practices associated with your accommodation that you are proud of?

Sustainability is an important part of the modern accommodation. We use a hybrid heat pump system that utilizes the lake for energy and heating. Solar panels and a rainwater harvesting system support irrigation, and the grounds are plastic-free, featuring high-quality ceramic and eco-friendly amenities. Guests can also explore the area using e-bikes or electric boats, and we offer free charging stations for electric vehicles.

What motivated you to rent out your accommodation to guests?

The modern accommodation was born out of a challenge and an opportunity. We wanted to expand our business but also offer something different—an accommodation that could host families and events, but also wellness experiences and retreats. It has become a complement to our luxury hotel, not a competitor, and has allowed us to serve a broader range of guests while maintaining our signature hospitality.

Can you paint a vivid picture of the overall experience someone can expect when they stay with you?

The experience begins the moment the gate opens. You are greeted by the peaceful view of Lake Orta, boats sailing by, and the rolling hills surrounding the water. Guests relax on terraces, sunbathe by the infinity pool, or enjoy gourmet meals in our bistro. The nature, serenity, and elegance of the space embrace you from the start, creating a peaceful yet luxurious escape.

In what way does your accommodation stand out from others? What makes it a unique experience for guests?

Our accommodation is a hybrid between a resort and independent apartments. Guests enjoy the privacy and space of an apartment, but with the amenities and services of a resort at their fingertips. Whether it's our Wellness area, the lakeside location, or the culinary experiences, everything is designed to be adaptable so that each guest can tailor their stay exactly to their wishes.

Can you share the best compliments you have received from a guest?

When guests tell us they felt at home, that is the best compliment we can receive. Creating a warm, welcoming environment is central to our hospitality philosophy, so when guests experience that comfort, we know we have succeeded.

Do you have recommendations for guests to make the most of their holiday?

Make sure to bring your swimwear, as the pool is heated, allowing you to enjoy it year-round. Try our cuisine, explore Lake Orta by boat, and visit the beautiful Sacred Mountain of Orta for breathtaking views. If you are celebrating something special, a meal in our restaurant is an unforgettable experience.