Hotel San Pietro

Lake Garda is known for its stunning views, and breathtaking vistas here do not disappoint. Built next to the landscape's rugged cliffs, the property's staggered pools and terraces mean navigating a fair few steps, although elevators handle the load indoors. Despite sharing facilities with sister property Hotel Cristina, there's no shortage of space, and loungers around outdoor pools are as plentiful as bar and restaurant seating. Sun-drenched terraces overlooking the lake is far more appealing. European couples form the bulk of guests, and young families join a mostly older crowd. Shuttles alleviate uphill returns from Limone sul Garda's town, but they're at a fee and don't run in evenings. While there isn't much for kids aside from pools, the family-friendly atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. Note that the hotel closes November through February.

With its backdrop of rugged cliffs and vistas of Lake Garda, the hotel's hill setting is magnificent, if a little impractical. The 15-minute walks to Limone sul Garda are downhill, but return walks can be a challenge, although taxis and shuttles are available. A popular tourist resort, the town has some good restaurants, and old lemon grove Limonaia del Castel is worth a visit. The Old Port is a 22-minute walk, and small churches here dot streets leading to a lakefront promenade. A vehicle is recommended here. Brescia's museums are an hour's drive. Famous as the setting for "Romeo & Juliet", the city of Verona is an 80-minute drive. It's 90 minutes by car from Verona Villafranca Airport.

Dated, albeit spacious, rooms average a generous 270 square feet (25 square meters). Floral-print blue bedspreads and seating fabric are faded, and the simple wood furniture has navy-blue accents, but rooms are bright from floor-to-ceiling windows and cheerful Kandinsky artwork. Lake views from furnished balconies are sensational, although a few are obstructed by trees. Amenities include phones, desks, flat-screen satellite TVs, tea- and coffee-making facilities, small safes, and minibars. Air-conditioning is provided in summer at the manager's discretion. Bathrooms have old-fashioned but charming painted tile accents, plus showers or shower/tub combos with plastic curtains, toiletries, hairdryers, slippers, and robes. Larger rooms with sofa beds are ideal for families, and rooms can be fitted with cribs. Wi-Fi is free and reliable in some rooms, but drops out regularly in others.

Terraces with mesh plastic loungers and parasols surround two outdoor pools, and both directly overlook the lake. The main pool's splash area is ideal for families, while the upper-level adult-only one affords tranquility. Note, access is via steps, and pools are seasonal. Potted palms are atmospheric at the adjacent Terrazza Grill Bar, where sensational views make for great al fresco lunches. An indoor pool with hot tub has yet more loungers, and the gym has a handful of cardio and weights machines, but no treadmill. About a 20-minute walk away, guests have access to the private pebble beach at sister hotel Hotel Leonardo Da Vinci. 

All bookings include a breakfast with a decent cold spread of breads, meats, cheeses, cereals, yogurt, and fresh fruits, though scrambled and boiled eggs are the only cooked options. San Pietro Restaurant offers a varied range of buffet dishes, plus outdoor views. Hourly Limone sul Garda shuttles are cheap, but only operate during the day. Underground parking is free, although tight spaces can be awkward for larger vehicles. Wi-Fi is free throughout.