Hotel du Lac et Bellevue

To be fair, the hotel stock along the shores of Lake Garda isn't always the most exciting, and this property falls somewhere in the middle. Yes, things are looking a little tired, but the relaxed environment and good number of features come together to make this a relatively well-liked lakeside getaway. The property actually consists of three separate buildings: Du Lac, the main building; the Annex, which is the most modern; and the Bellevue, where the gardens and terrace are found. Guests check in at the main building, which also houses the restaurant and bar. A veranda and terrace out back are lovely places to sit when the weather is nice, and there are great (albeit sometimes tree-blocked) views of the lake all around the property. Most guests are couples -- which isn't surprising given the romantic setting -- but families and groups also stay here. Many guests come year after year, but keep in mind that the hotel is closed during the winter months. 

A short 10-minute walk from the historic center of Bardolino, this hotel overlooks Lake Garda and has its own private beach. Behind the hotel is the main lakefront promenade, with many bars, restaurants, and shops. Movieland Park is about a 10-minute drive away, and Gardaland Sea Life Aquarium is about 15 minutes away by car. Parco Zoo Natura Viva is also about a 15-minute drive. The closest train station is Peschiera del Garda, 20 minutes away by car. Verona and the Verona Villafranco Airport are about 30 minutes away by car. 

Spacious rooms and suites are spread throughout the hotel's three buildings. Decor is rather basic in all and a bit dated. You'll see lots of faded red fabrics and light oak-veneer accents, plus heavy fabrics and carpeted floors. All rooms and suites come with air-conditioning, minibars, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, safes, and electric kettles. When guests arrive, they're greeted with a welcome bag containing a beach towel, robe, and slippers. Bathrooms are equipped with bidets, towel warmers, toiletries, hairdryers, magnifying mirrors, and showers or tubs (or shower/tub combos). Some rooms have furnished balconies with beautiful lake views. Others overlook the parking area. Suites have more space and sofa beds. 

Features are quite solid at this hotel, and include a surprising amount of wellness options. The Wellness Center offers a fitness room with cardio and weight training equipment, as well as free weights. There's also a relaxation area, sauna, hot tub, and massage treatment rooms. The large indoor-outdoor pool has lounge chairs both inside and out. Outdoors, there are umbrellas and trees, while the indoor area is bright, with a high ceiling and windows on three sides. The hotel has its own private beach on the lakefront, as well as a private jetty. Lounge chairs and umbrellas are lined up on the pebbled shoreline, with umbrellas and trees for shade. A restaurant serves regional fare for all meals, including a free breakfast buffet. The space is sunny and bright and the adjacent bar is cozy, but a bit dated. Alfresco dining is available on the terrace in nice weather. Live music performs on some nights. An internet center offers a computer and printer for guests to use in the lobby. Bikes can be rented on-site. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. Limited outdoor parking is available in front of the main building for free, and garage parking is available for a fee.