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The 15 Best Hotels in the Italian Lakes

It’s been a hard job, but someone has had to relax on all those beautiful sun terraces appreciating the near-perfect views. And someone has had to try out all those wonderfully welcoming hotel pools - even the ones which float gracefully on top of the lakes themselves. And someone has had to dine out in all those restaurants, and sleep in a slew of graceful rooms. But now it’s done, and here are our Gurus' recommendations for the 15 best Italian Lakes hotels.

Gian Luca Ponti via Flickr

Our Gurus have arranged their choices for the 15 best hotels in the Italian Lakes based on the type of break you're planning, so they have the most romantic hotels on the Italian Lakes, the best hotels in the Italian Lakes for families, the best value hotels in the Italian Lakes and the best hotels views on the Italian Lakes - for example. But if you'd prefer to search by location here are some of

Our Guru’s Italian Lakes Collections:

The 15 Best Hotels in the Italian Lakes

The Best Hotel Views in the Italian Lakes

The lakeside Locanda San Vigilio in Garda is an elegant, 14 room hotel owned and run by an Italian count! It’s been a hotel for 500 years and it’s immaculately decorated with antiques and beautiful objets. The hotel even has it’s own Emporium where you can buy beautiful things.

Locanda San Vigilio

The Bellevue San Lorenzo, right on Lake Garda in Malcesine, is a pretty Belle Epoque villa turned 52 room hotel. As well as being surrounded by beautiful grounds and having lovely lake views, the villa has an outdoor pool, fitness centre and spa.

Or try Lake Como’s opulent Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, an old elegant grand dame in Bellagio, with all the trappings of old fashioned luxury. Think doric columns, beautiful antiques, frescoed ceilings, grand sun terraces, spectacular lake views - of course - and a Michelin starred restaurant. They also have a private boat.

Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni

The Most Romantic Hotels in the Italian Lakes

The Hotel Florence, in Lake Como’s glamorous Bellagio, is a stunning hotel with design mimicking its Florentine namesake. It has just 27 lovely rooms and sumptuous suites, some with private balconies and spectacular views - of course! There’s also a gourmet restaurant and a small spa, and all starting from around £130 per night.

The Relais Villa Vittoria in Laglio is a wonderfully romantic hotel right on the edge of the lake. As well as beautiful views, this hotel has 11 delicately sumptuous rooms, an excellent restaurant, and peaceful terraces overlooking the lake. Perfect for honeymooners.

The Villa Feltrinelli in Gargnano, Lake Garda, is a beautiful aristocratic villa conversion, with 21 rooms boasting restored interiors incluing antiques, beautiful fabrics and paintings. There’s also a Michelin starred restaurant. A stunning property and perfect for the most romantic of honeymoons.....if the budget will stretch that far!

Villa Feltrinelli

Or there’s Gardone Riviera’s Villa Fiordaliso, a grand 19th Century Liberty-style villa with beautiful, historic interiors and a gourmet restaurant. There are just five rooms, which are traditional but timeless, and all with beautiful views of the lake. There’s also Michelin starred dining and lovely gardens and terraces.

The Best Lakeside Hotels in the Italian Lakes

The Grand Hotel Tremezzo has 89 elegant rooms right on edge of Lake Como. Five stars worth of beautifully understated interiors plus generous sun terraces, an excellent restaurant and spa and parklands surrounding the hotel. Plus, one of the pools actually floats on the lake!

Sirmione’s Villa Cortine Palace is a grand, old fashioned villa hotel, with 54 rooms and an absolutely splendid setting on a spit of land jutting into Lake Garda. The rooms are grand, and Art Deco in style, with some beautiful frescoes and antiques, and there’s a private jetty, a swimming pool and lovely neoclassical landscaped gardens all around.

Salò’s Hotel Laurin is a stunning hotel with 30 rooms and suites right on the shores of Lake Garda. Converted from an elegant 20th Century villa, guests can expect parquet floors, frescoes and Art Nouveau furniture. There’s also a lovely pool in shady gardens and an excellent restaurant.

Hotel Laurin

The Best Traditional Hotels in the Italian Lakes

If you want to be right on Lake Como, try the Villa d'Este, one of the more traditional five star hotels, the kind with grand state rooms, chandeliers, heavy fabrics, private balconies and private boats.

Villa d'Este

The Best Hotels in the Italian Lakes for Families

The Hotel Catullo in Lake Garda’s beautiful Sirmione, is a great value hotel with 56 rooms starting from around £100 per night. The rooms are comfortable, there are lovely terraces right on the edge of the lake and there’s a good pool.

Also in Sirmione, the Villa Pioppi is an elegant, seven room villa set within two hectares of beautiful parkland, with a swimming pool, a sun terrace and a private beach. The rooms are large, and some have lake views and private balconies. And they also offer a babysitting service.

Villa Pioppi

The Best Value Hotels in the Italian Lakes

Gardesana, in the pretty fishing village of Torri del Benaco on Lake Garda, has 34 simple, comfortable rooms, great views and excellent food. It’s also wonderful value, with room starting from under £100 per night, and it’s quite romantic.

Originally built for the imperial family, the Grand Hotel Fasano in Lake Garda’s Gardone Riviera, is an historic grand hotel in a privileged lakeside position. The architecture is romantic with fairytale turrets and lovely details, but its private terraces, pebbly beach, spa and tennis courts mean it’s also a good choice for families. The 76 rooms start from around £100 per night.

The Osteria Antico Brolo in Gardone Riviera, Lake Garda, is a gorgeous restaurant with four chic, all-white rooms and suites you can stay in. Private and comfortable, and very good value, with rooms starting from around £60 per night.

Osteria Antico Brolo

Still not sure which of our Guru’s recommendations for the 15 best hotels in the Italian Lakes is perfect for you?

The 15 Best Hotels in the Italian Lakes

  • Locanda San Vigilio Garda 14 rooms from £234

    Writing a novel  -  This enchanting place has been inspiration for many great minds, from Churchill to Napoleon and Laurence Olivier
    Honeymoons  -  Private balconies overlooking the lake, palatial fourposters and romantic walks through fragrant gardens.
    Local markets  -  The hotel has its own Emporium where you can buy prints of drawings by Venetian artists, painted ceramics and fabrics.
    Tennis  -  Tennis club di Garna is 4 km from the property and equippment can be rented on site.
    Air conditioningTennisRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels

    Elegant and intimate lakeside hotel, full of character, owned and run by an Italian count. A hotel for 500 years, the property is right on the waterside in a charming location, full of antiques and objets. A very special and relaxed place to stay. See More

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  • Bellevue San Lorenzo Malcesine 52 rooms from £172

    Total relaxation  -  This chic hideway is perfect spot to recharge, with Hammam, sauna and sleepy gardens overlooking the lake.
    Country Escape  -  Surrounded by beautiful gardens, sloping down to the shores of Lake Garda.
    Views  -  Wonderful views of Lake Garda.
    Great walks  -  Walk along the promenade to the picturesque Val di Sogno, a superb spot for lake bathing and water sports.
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    Popular belle epoque villa with lovely grounds overlooking the lake. Five Italian Villas with simple yet stylish rooms. Highlights include a restaurant with a view, outdoor pool, fitness centre and small relaxation spa. Good value for a stunning spot. See More

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  • Hotel Florence Bellagio 27 rooms from £139

    Romantic Break  -  Cruise on the lake or stroll through the countryside before unwinding in the small spa, perfect activities for a romantic break
    Foodies  -  Dine on gourmet Italian dishes set on a pretty wisteria-shaded lakeside terrace
    Owner managed  -  The property has been in the same family for the past 100 years
    Views  -  Breathtaking views over Lake Como
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantGardenViews
    Recommended by  -  CN Traveller

    Stunning hotel on the shore of Lake Como. Interior design mimics its Florentine namesake in its elegance and combinations of colour. Sumptuous suites with private balconies, gourmet restaurant, spa and spectacular views. A very romantic and sophisticated spot. See More

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  • Villa Feltrinelli Gargnano 21 rooms from £824

    Foodies  -  The elegant restaurant serves up superlative Italian cuisine in an undeniably romantic setting & has two Michelin stars
    Romantic Break  -  The ultimate treat for yourself and a loved one
    Great walks  -  Plenty of scenic walking routes nearby
    Restaurant  -  Two Michelin starred restaurant
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViews
    Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection, Fodors

    Ultimate luxury lakeside hotel in an historic house. Like staying in a private home, full of aristocratic heritage, with restored interiors and antiques, beautiful fabrics and paintings. Gourmet dining, a perfect honeymoon escape for those that can afford it. See More

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  • Villa Fiordaliso 25083 Gardone Riviera 5 rooms from £174

    Sights nearby  -  Vittoriale degli italiani the architecturally fascinating hillside estate in the town is only a 15 minute walk away.
    Great walks  -  Plenty of scenic walking routes on the property grounds and surrounding countryside.
    Sailing  -  Rent a boat and head out on the lake, the perfect way to explore the shore.
    Views  -  Stunning views over Lake Garda
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Relais & Chateaux, Fodors

    Very romantic and grand late 19th century, Liberty-style villa with historic interiors and gourmet food. Timeless, traditional rooms with antiques, lakeside views, and lovely gardens and terrace. Intimate and refined. See More

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  • Grand Hotel Tremezzo Tremezzo 89 rooms from £521

    Spa breaks  -  T-spa specialises in anti-stress and rebalancing treatments, all custom-designed with ESPA
    Outstanding location  -  Set right on Lake Como and commanding spectacular views, this property is hard to beat
    Foodies  -  Dine in the superb La Terrazza which serves traditional gourmet Italian fare
    Views  -  Wonderful views of Bellagio and the Grigne mountains
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Kiwi Collection

    Five Star Luxury from a Grand Hotel on the water's edge of Lake Como. Elegant interiors are understated, rather than overly lavish. Glossy parquet floors, brightly coloured walls, a mixture of contemporary and Baroque furniture, spectacular views from terraces. Excellent restaurant, spa, parklands. See More

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  • Villa Cortine Palace Sirmione 54 rooms from £384

    Total relaxation  -  Allow yourself to be transported to a by gone era when palaces were home and servants tended to your every need.
    Honeymoons  -  A lovers paradise with private couples dining, indulgent suites and private balconies overlooking the lake.
    Great walks  -  Wander the huge five acre gardens that surround the property, with elegant landscaping and wonderful statues.
    Tennis  -  Be sure to bring your racket and check out the clay tennis court on site.
    Air conditioningTennisRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking

    Grand and charmingly old-fashioned villa hotel with a splendid setting in pretty Sirmione. Lovely lakeside gardens, grand 30s style bedrooms, frescos and antiques. Private swimming jetty and lovely pool. Super romantic, if you like historic charm. See More

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  • Hotel Laurin Salò 30 rooms from £123

    Foodies  -  Garda Food and Wine Trail & Strada dei Vini e Sapori del Garda: visits to about 100 producers (wineries, oil mills, cheeses).
    Families  -  Swimming and Lake Garda to explore by boat. Many child friendly sights in the area, such as movie studio and safari park
    Sights nearby  -  Salò, Gardone Riviera, Toscolano Maderno, Gargnano and Limone del Garda
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViews
    Recommended by  -  CN Traveller

    A stunning hotel on the shore of Lake Garda. Rooms and suites in a 20th century villa are elegant, with parquet floors and all mod cons. Frescoes and art nouveau furniture. Excellent authentic cuisine, pool and shady gardens. An idyllic choice, and perfect for a family holiday. See More

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  • Villa d'Este Cernobbio 152 rooms from £599

    Garden  -  Set amid 25 acres of park including manicured gardens which feature magnificent fountains, grand terraces, and trimmed topiary
    Foodies  -  The restaurant is a smart affair (there's a dress code). It served impeccible Italian fine-dining
    Active Holiday  -  There's plenty to keep everyone busy here from trekking to SUP or tennis
    Elegant  -  Complete with glittering chandeliers and traditional art works
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  CN Traveller, Tablet

    Romantic lakeside opulence without compromise. Almost regal bedrooms, suites, and villas have rich chintzy fabrics, chandeliers and private balconies. Spectacular lake views, excellent restaurant, pool and spa, and private boats. Magnificently special. See More

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  • Villa Pioppi Sirmione 7 rooms from £141

    Active Holiday  -  From cultural tours to mountain biking or waterspots, there's plenty to do in the area
    Families  -  Babysitting services, private beach, plus acres of grounds in which to tire them out
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Swimming Pool  -  Indoor/outdoor
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViews

    The elegant Villa Pioppi boasts two hectares of picturesque parkland with swimming pool, a private beach area and extensive sun terrace with views. Spacious air conditioned rooms - some with lake views - feature private balconies. Enjoy outdoor dining or try out the plentiful nearby restaurants. See More

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  • Gardesana Torri del Benaco 34 rooms from £121

    Local exploring  -  Offering a great location overlooking the lake and with views of the castle, this is the perfect spot to explore from
    Foodies  -  Regional dishes are served on the terrace restaurant
    Fishing  -  Fishing excursions nearby
    Sights nearby  -  Verona 40 minutes drive
    Air conditioningRestaurantPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

    Excellent food and comfortable, simple rooms in Garda's showpiece fishing village. Perfectly positioned in a charming little port, it's a very romantic spot for a good value break. Homely and ideal for local exploring. See More

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  • Grand Hotel Fasano Gardone Riviera 76 rooms from £208

    Total relaxation  -  A gorgeous former hunting lodge located in a secluded spot besides the lake, the perfect place to come and unwind
    Romantic Break  -  With pools to lounge by, elegant rooms and a romantic terrace restaurant, this is a great choice for lovers
    Lakeside  -  On the edge of Lake Garda.
    Romantic  -  You couldn't stay in a more fairytale setting on the lake's edge.
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViews

    An historic grand hotel originally built for the imperial family. Its privileged lakeside position and romantic architecture make it the ideal spot for a honeymoon or romantic holiday. Fairytale turrets, terraces, private pebble beach, spa, tennis court and sumptuous rooms. Heavenly. See More

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  • Osteria Antico Brolo Gardone Riviera 4 rooms from £72

    Value chic  -  Seriously good value with standard rooms from only €70 per night B&B
    Local exploring  -  A chic base for exploring Gardone Riviera and Lake Garda
    Foodies  -  Sample the delights of the on site gourmet restaurant
    Families  -  One of the suites can accommodate up to 4 people
    Air conditioningRestaurantPet friendlyParking

    Gorgeous restaurant with rooms in Gardone Riviera. Enter through a charming courtyard with arched stone gateways and traditional oak doors. Chic all-white bedrooms and suites with exposed beams complemented with period furnishings. Eat delicious dinners at the on site osteria. A perfect base! See More

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Written by Kat Parr Mackintosh

posted Monday, 26th July 2021