Hotel Caesius Thermae & Spa Resort

The layout of property gives it a sense of seclusion. The buildings at the 185-room Hotel Caesius Thermae encircle the property's gorgeous grounds, which have landscaped Mediterranean gardens and the main pool in the center. The lobby is in the hotel's main building, and rooms at the newer Augustus complexes are located across the gardens. Walking paths and the outdoor bar are surrounded by olive trees, oleanders, and manicured plants.

The decor throughout the hotel is Scandinavian in style -- bright, clean spaces with simple wood furniture. The furnishings are modern and bold in color -- orange, red, or black. Overall, the design of the Caesius is not visually stunning, but it is contemporary and tasteful.

The Hotel Caesius Thermae has a great waterfront location right off Lake Garda, Italy's largest lake and a popular vacation spot. The hotel is located outside the heart of Bardolino, and the beautiful lakefront scenery is a perfect backdrop for the property's spa services. The location is, however, less convenient for sightseeing. The restaurants and bars in Bardolino are a few minutes' drive or 20-minute walk away. The hotel also offers a shuttle to get into town. Verona, the famous city where "Romeo and Juliet" was based, and the Verona airport are farther away.

Rooms at the Caesius Thermae are average in terms of size, amenities and decor. All are furnished with basic wood furniture, and include satellite TV, adjustable air-conditioning, and a coffee/tea maker. Many rooms also have outdoor balconies. Rooms in the Augustus buildings away from the restaurants in the main building are most quiet, but rooms in the main building are newer and have better views of the pool and the lake behind it.

The room rate includes access to the expansive spa at the Caesius Thermae, where guests have access to thermal spas, saunas and steam rooms. The hotel is the first in Italy to have a comprehensive Ayurvedic Center. Typical spa treatments like massages and facials are available for additional fees, but that's just the tip of the iceberg for the spa's offerings: the Caesius also has a dietitian on staff who can plan three to seven day cleanses, and services like thermal water inhalation therapy.

The hotel's other amenities include free Wi-Fi and a buffet breakfast, which offers a variety of options including organic, gluten-free, and Ayurvedic items. The other restaurants and bars on the property are a la carte. Families with young children will also find two kids' pools and play equipment, as well as the option of hiring babysitting services.