Palace Hotel

A cobblestone driveway flanked by flowers makes for an elegant introduction to this countryside retreat, where the nearby Lake Garda makes for beautiful views, but the isolated setting can be tricky for travelers without vehicles. Interiors are less impressive due to traditional, dated decor consisting of wood paneling, tufted leather seating, and a mishmash of artwork -- like a vintage car photo at the front desk. Plant-filled indoor atriums overlook the property's extensive grounds, and summers see these at their best, when the main pool is open. A small rooftop one is heated year-round, and loungers on decked terraces here overlook the lake. Families are welcome, but the getaway vibe here is better for grown-ups.

Many find the hotel's isolated location adds to its charm. Its setting between Desenzano and Sirmione is peaceful, but not for everyone, as neither are within walking distance. Free shuttles run to both towns three times a day. Driving take 10 minutes for Desenzano, and twice that for Sirmione, and a nearby bus runs to both. Picturesque and historic, Sirmione's cobbled streets have beautiful counterparts in Desenzano, where a harbor and castle are worth visiting, and Piazza Giuseppe Malvezzi's main square is packed with restaurants. Three amusement parks are within a 20-minute drive. Trains from Milan, Verona, and Venice run to Desenzano Railway Station, a 14-minute drive. Verona Villafranca Airport is 28 minutes away by car.

Facing gardens or Lake Garda (in upgraded categories), traditionally styled rooms are dated, but they're bright and cheerful. Classic wood furniture -- including desks -- and tan tile are accented by yellow tufted armchairs, chair cushions, and bed runners. Lamp wall sconces, wood-framed mirrors on the walls, and striped orange and pale-yellow drapes finish the decorations. Wrought-iron or limestone balustrade outdoor spaces are furnished, and indoor amenities include phones, satellite flat-screen TVs, minibars, safes, hairdryers, and AC. Superior Rooms guaranteeing lake vistas have tea- and coffee-making facilities, as do a range of Suites. Suites have living rooms and can sleep up to four people; some have two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Compact bathrooms have showers or shower/tub combos, bidets, toiletries, slippers, and robes. In-room Wi-Fi is free, but it can be spotty. Rooms can be fitted with cribs.

Sun-drenched terraces with loungers and lawn gardens surround the freeform outdoor pool, which isn't heated, but it's seasonal and its temperature is generally fine, plus it has a hot tub. The rooftop saltwater pool is smaller, but it's heated and open year-round. Additionally, views across valleys to Lake Garda are beautiful. The small spa has limited weekday hours (however, weekends are all-day), and it can get crowded due to quality facilities like a mood-lit relaxation zone with free tea, a Turkish hammam, Finnish sauna, therapeutic showers, and rooms for a wide range of massages and treatments. Note, the spa is off-limits to kids under 16. 

Free buffet breakfasts are served in the old-fashioned, but elegant breakfast room. Bacon and eggs accompany continental spreads, as well as tea, coffee, and a juicing machine. The bar's semi-outdoor terraces have smart charcoal wickers, and summer lunches are popular here, with drinks served indoors in colder months. Sadly, there's no full restaurant. Seven meeting rooms have a maximum 300-person capacity. On-site parking is free, with garage parking at a fee, and bikes can be hired. Wi-Fi is free throughout.