Hotel Ideal

While ideal might be a bit of a stretch, Hotel Ideal could certainly be described as clean, friendly, and efficiently run. Typical of many similar surrounding properties, it occupies a low-rise property with a partly weather-worn facade and dated '70s-era feel. The reception is all polished stone, faux white leather, and accents in brass and walnut, with a lobby-side bar continuing in the same vein plus the addition of some historic photographs of the locale. The atmosphere of this hotel is warm and welcoming, with a genuine old-school Italian feel that stems largely from it being family-run. While adorned with plenty of plant life, there's little in the way of gardens, or even outside space besides the terra-cotta tile terrace that provides dramatic views of the mountainous surrounds -- though not the lake. Clientele are mix of English, German, and Italian guests, mostly vacationing couples and sporty types.  

The hotel is positioned overlooking the main road that runs through the small town of Torbole, set on the northern banks of Lake Garda. Guests can find a handful of bars and restaurants in the town center around five minutes away on foot, as well as its long lakeside pebble beach. The surrounds are particularly conducive to outdoor activities on both land and on the lake, and Torbole is a renowned windsurfing spot. It can feel rather isolated, however, with the nearest railway station in Rovereto a half-hour drive away, and though buses are available, a car is recommended. 

The hotel has 32 rooms and four suites, all of which are decorated in a simple and functional combination of basic modern furniture, carpeted floors, and off-white walls. Blue bed runners and artwork add some decoration. All rooms open to small furnished balconies, mostly overlooking the road and distant mountain surrounds. Street-facing rooms are prone to some, though not generally excessive, traffic noise. Standard (Relax) rooms some with 26-inch flat-screen TVs, safes, air conditioning, and coffee- and tea-making facilities, while upgraded rooms (Sansouci) and Suites add DVD players with movies and free (soft drink) minibars. Wi-Fi is free of charge, though spotty in some rooms. Well-maintained bathrooms have tiny shower cubicles, wall-mounted hairdryers, and heated towel rails; higher-category rooms have upgraded toiletries. Suite guests also have access to a spacious terrace with whirlpool tub and loungers, plus an open bar.

With no swimming pool, spa, or child-friendly facilities, hotel features are certainly limited. What it does provide is a decent buffet breakfast of hot and cold items served in a bright dining room, which is always included in the rate. There's also a small bar serving drinks like Aperol Spritz and Prosecco, and a traditional Italian restaurant specializing in pastas and pizza. A spacious but minimally equipped fitness room offers a few machines and free weights, and those with bikes have free access to secure storage. Underground parking is also available for a daily fee.