this was a very unique experience which is why we were drawn to it. I thought that the room would be simple and it was. I asked for a twin double and our room was odd...up at the highest level so the view was incredible, as was the balcony (tiny) but it was L shaped and one bed boxed in with no view. I would instead request a double, looked like 2 twins put together anyway.
The outside elevators were a bit scary the first time, but after that they were fun and part ot the experience. This place is about the view and it is absolutely stunning. The common areas were great, the large terrace and the dining balcony. The walk into town is quick, a bit longer returning as it is uphill but not difficult.

We stayed 3 nights here and the view from our two mini balconies was just breathtaking. So relaxing to sit out and gaze at the lake, one evening there were fireworks that we could see as well. The staff was very accomodating and the breakfast was great. We enjoyed hiking up to the castle above the hotel. It's a short but uphill hike from the main part of town so you'll need to expect some walking to the ferry and to restaurants. Rooms were very clean and comfortable. And being up the hill gives you amazing views of the lake.

My husband and I just LOVED our five nights in Hotel Eremo Gaudio, in Varenna. The hotel has a fabulous location, great breakfasts & dinners, lovely rooms and terrific staff. We were treated like royalty, and hated to leave this dreamlike hotel! We are so happy that we followed Rick Steves' advice & selected breathtakingly beautiful Hotel Eremo Gaudio as our Varenna hotel.

This was very good hotel located in the best town to stay in on Lake Como. Very reasonably priced for Lake Como. It is a short walk from town center but this provided a quiet location, away from street traffic, motor scooters - noise. Fantastic views of Lake Como - I cannot imagine any hotel offering better. Recommend you upgrade to their superior rooms. To access you will take two funiculars up the mountain. These rooms are located in a separate upper hotel – really cool! Large rooms with patios overlooking the lake and the town. Hotel rooms were clean and large. Front desk was very helpful in answering questions. As a side, there are walking trails from the hotel which lead to some interesting places; ie. River that comes out of a cave in the mountain side.
Best to arrive during daylight hours and you should not have difficulty locating hotel. If you have any experience driving in small Italian towns this is not difficult. If you are in poor physical condition or overweight and not used to walking, Varenna and this hotel is not for you. My wife and I are in our upper 60’s and we had no problem getting around but over hearing some overweight folks, some do. (you will have to bring your suitcases up 16 steps to access upper hotel funicular, well worth the extra effort.)