Hotel La Perla

La Perla’s lobby and extensive seating area is quiet, simple, and dated in decor. The teal and red color scheme makes the common areas livelier, but the muted yellow valances and sheer curtains are reminiscent of a standard chain hotel.

The grounds -- which include a large pool and a pretty garden that are across the street and accessed by tunnel -- are more charming. The pool is quite large and the multi-blue tile in the pool is a nice touch, even though the surrounding area is plain, with small umbrellas and plastic lounge chairs. The adjacent garden is well-maintained and dotted with loungers. The natural scenery of Garda's hills overlooks the property.

The hotel is popular with tour groups, particularly senior groups. In addition, the hotel has rebranded itself as Biker Hotel La Perla and added attractions for those looking to see the Verona area by bicycle. Some of their bike-related offerings include storage space, repair equipment, and a purchasable packed lunch.

The restaurant, which is also open for dinner, has a clean, though dated, feel with wooden tables and checkered tablecloths. A biker bar offers afternoon drinks and snacks, as does a poolside bar.

Hotel La Perla is near the center of Garda, making it convenient to the restaurants and bars in the small town. Near the highway, it’s easy to find. Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, is just a short walk away. Hotel La Perla’s central location makes it a landing pad for people looking to take advantage of the daylong excursions the area is know for, whether it be via bike, foot, or boat.

The rooms at La Perla are small and poorly designed. There is small, built-in furniture that provides little functionality. For example, the vanity/desk has a mini-fridge below it, making it a difficult place to sit. The red and brown color scheme is less than appealing. The bathrooms are fairly small as well, with a compact shower and no tub. There is a heated towel rack, however, and all rooms have balconies, as well as satellite TV, air-conditioning, and Wi-Fi. Rooms at the back of the hotel have better views overlooking the pool and the Garda hillside.

The Hotel La Perla has made itself incredibly biker-friendly, with storage facilities, repair equipment, options for take-away lunch, and more. They even have an in-house expert to advise on route possibilities. Guests can also reserve guided bike tours.

Located in the center of Garda, the hotel has made local partnerships to extend its offerings, including access to a local gym, tennis courts, and free tune-ups at the bike shop.

On the premises, there’s a free breakfast buffet including traditional, international, and high-protein options. While the pool is large, and has an adjacent children’s pool, the sparse perimeter and its separation (via tunnel) from the hotel, doesn’t necessarily inspire all-day lounging.