Hotel Gardenia al Lago

Hotel review

Hotel Gardenia al Lago is a family-run hotel on the western shore of Lake Garda. For a century, it has belonged to the Arosio family, who made it their summer residence in 1925 before opening it as a guesthouse in 1957, they then further expanded it in the 1970’s. Today, the hotel remains in their hands, and that continuity gives the hotel its distinct character. Costantina Arosio (b. 1937), affectionately known as ‘Tina’ still keeps a watchful eye over the running of the hotel by her sons Giorgio and Andrea (her third son Valerio runs sister property Hotel du Lac).

The atmosphere is one of lived-in history and tradition rather than polished formality. The ground floor features a music room, still centred around pianos, a reminder of the family’s heritage in piano manufacturing. Corridors are lined with black-and-white photographs that chart family life, their early business years, and relatives in uniform during the First World War. This sense of personal history runs throughout the villa.

Bedrooms remain simple and authentic, furnished with the family’s furniture from when it was their summer house, many have stunning lake views. Beds are dressed with sheets and blankets in the traditional way, floors are laid with original patterned tiles, and bathrooms are bright with colourful tiles and include bidets. These details create an experience that is both nostalgic and genuine.

Meals at Rivalago Restaurant are served outdoors lakeside in the gardens among olive and palm trees on the terrace directly overlooking the lake or inside in the dining room. Expect linen tablecloths and napkins, as well as charming, uniformed staff. The food is seasonal and rooted in the region, with lake fish, handmade pastas and vegetables from local growers. The family’s underground cellar adds to the experience with bottles from small Italian winemakers who focus on indigenous grape varieties. Breakfast is a buffet of pastries, fruit, yoghurt, cheeses, hams and of course, homemade Italian cakes and biscuits, and there’s no charge here for speciality coffees at breakfast. In fact, the drinks list is incredibly reasonable, a Negroni for €9, Campari Soda for €5 and should you like a cappuccino after 11am that will only be €3. The generosity of spirit is evident in the restaurant menu and wine list too.

There’s plenty to do and see during your stay, from swimming in the lake, kayaking, hiking, and sunbathing on warmer days (note: jumpers are needed in October). Additionally, you can shop in Salò (25 minutes by car) and Gargnano just a 5-10 minute walk. Raul is excellent and is on hand to give deep tissue massages, highly recommended after a day’s hike.

You can also visit the family’s restored limonaia (lemon garden) at Crocefisso, Andrea’s passion and one of the few remaining lemon houses on the lake, which offers insight into Lake Garda’s long citrus-growing traditions. You'll need a minimum of three nights to slow down, be present, and fully enjoy the experience at Hotel Gardenia.

Lulu Townsend