Hotel Lido

Hotel Lido is housed in a boxy building right across the road from Lake Garda. Originally built in the 1970s in a style (or lack there of) reflective of the time, the property underwent a renovation that gave a much-needed breathe of fresh air to its rooms. However, public areas and the apartments are still outdated. The lobby and restaurant are filled with granite floors, couches covered in unattractive blue-and-yellow patterned fabric, and floral tablecloths. Still, with its good selection of features -- including an outdoor pool surrounded by terra-cotta decking -- and lovely Lake Garda views from many vantage points, it's a solid pick for both couples and families. 

Hotel Lido is an easily accessible lakefront property located off the Gardesana State Road within the small commune of Malcesine. It's directly across the road from Lake Garda and a 10-minute walk into the town center. It's a two-hour train-then-bus ride from Bologna and a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Verona. Aside from the lakefront promenade across the street, there's nothing in the immediate surrounds. However, there are a park, handful of restaurants, and the Cesenatico train station within a 15- to 20-minute walk from the hotel. 

Rooms have an attractive and contemporary design of hardwood floors, dark-wood IKEA-style furniture, and pops of red in armchairs and modern artwork. Apartments, on the other hand, are dated, either with wood or beige-tile flooring, a mix of old wood and metal furniture, and linens in dated patterns such as yellow and green plaid. These are located on the bottom floor and have a separate bedroom and living area, plus full kitchen with dining table. While all rooms overlook the lake from their balconies, apartments vary between lake views or overlooking the rather unattractive brush-filled back area. All rooms are spacious and come with AC, cable channels on small tube-style TVs, and mini-fridges. Bathrooms have an older style across rooms and apartments, and are equipped with small showers, bidets, toiletries, and wall-mounted hairdryers. On the downside, some wear and tear is visible, and noise from the nearby freeway can be heard from time to time.

Hotel Lido has a good selection of amenities on-site to keep guests occupied. Outside, there's a garden-set swimming pool with a shallow area. The terra-cotta deck is lined with loungers and umbrellas. Thanks to a row of bushes there is some privacy, but at the cost of lake views. An indoor wellness area has an above-ground whirlpool, loungers, and sauna for adults, however, it costs extra to use it. A play area with tons of games and toys is available for younger kids. The Italian restaurant serves local and national specialties at the free buffet-style breakfast, while the bar offers small snacks like sandwiches, coffee, and alcoholic drinks. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout, and covered parking in a private garage is also free. For active folks, bikes can be rented and the front desk can arrange excursions, including water sports. Small dogs are welcome here for a daily fee.