Hotel Cristina

Hotel Cristina has the (some might say dubious) distinction of being one of the very first large hotels to be built in the town of Limone Sul Garda, and much of this '60s-era hotel remains firmly stuck in the last century. The reception area, with its polished yellow stone and vivid blue chairs, certainly feels dated -- though guests can help themselves to a welcome drink of fizz on arrival. The property comprises the main building and five villas across several levels that tier down the hillside. 

Functional '60s' architecture aside, the complex is a pleasant combination of natural stone walls, spacious sun terraces, and gardens that comprise pretty flower beds and numerous palm trees. Despite four elevators, navigating the hotel can involve lots of steps, a challenge for those with mobility issues or small children. The atmosphere is relaxed and quiet, appealing to the mix of European couples who make up the majority of the clientele and enjoy the hotel's exceptional panoramic mountain and lake views.

The hotel features a particularly stunning -- and rather remote -- location high up on the hillside of Limone sul Garda surrounded by mountains and overlooking the north end of Lake Garda. The immediate surrounds are mostly residential, with the town center and most dining options (and the banks of the lake) a 15- to 20-minute walk downhill. The walk back up can be a challenge, however, and most take advantage of the hotel's free shuttle service (though with just eight seats, it can fill up quickly -- and it doesn't run in the evening). A car is recommended for exploring the surrounding area, and the gorgeous medieval town of Verona is an hour and a half by road. 

The hotel's 158 rooms break down into four main categories depending largely on age of interiors and quality of views. At the lower end are Standard Rooms, with dated (occasionally garish) decor and without the guarantee of views. Next up are the Superior Rooms, with a similarly unmodernized feel, though partial or side lake views. Superior Plus Rooms have the same views but were updated in 2011 and have a fresher, more contemporary vibe. Decor in Panorama Rooms is still outdated, though these have spectacular full-frontal views of the lake. All but a few rooms open to furnished balconies or terraces. 

Amenities are basic: old-style tube TVs, minibars, and old-fashioned safes, though upgraded rooms add coffee- and tea-making facilities. Bathrooms are also mostly dated (Superior Plus are updated) with step-in showers or shower/tub combos and basic toiletries. Hairdryers are provided with a deposit for most rooms, though Superior Plus Rooms have wall-mounted hairdryers. Some guests have complained of thin walls between rooms. Air-conditioning is at the manager's discretion (meaning, no individual temperature control) and there's no in-room Wi-Fi. 

Floor-to-ceiling windows in the main buffet restaurant allow breakfast and dinner to be accompanied by spectacular views over the lake (if you're quick enough to grab a window-side table). Breakfast here is always included in the rate, and is a decent enough spread though it can get repetitive; an optional half-board rate covers a buffet dinner. For lunch, a poolside restaurant offers an a la carte menu and an alfresco terrace, plus a bar with evening live piano music. 

The hotel's two outdoor pools (one is shared with neighboring Hotel San Pietro) both offer plenty of space to soak in the water, as well as spacious terraces to soak up those gorgeous lake views. One also has a splash pool for kids, though there's no poolside animation or other child-friendly amenities. Guests arriving by car have plenty of free parking in the hotel's underground garage. Wi-Fi is also free of charge in some of the public areas. Guests also have use of use of the pebble beach at the nearby Hotel Leonardo da Vinci.