Continental

We slept really well in a spacious enough room, and housekeeping was exceptional. The bathroom seemed newly refurbished, with plenty of shower gel, though there were no tissues. Some rooms might need redecorating, but we'd stay again. It's a peaceful residential spot close to town and the lake, and every staff member we met was friendly, polite, and efficient. The pool was well looked after and there were usually sunbeds free, though one group of German tourists put towels down at 7:30 every morning and then left. The hotel doesn't provide pool towels. There was a good choice at breakfast. The dinner menu was narrower, and vegetarians would have even fewer options, but we enjoyed everything we ordered.

The location is hard to beat, five minutes from the lake, ferry terminal, and bus park. The ferry is a nice way to get around but expensive, while the bus costs less. We went to Verona twice because we loved it, even though it was busy. The return bus fare for three was $27, and buses were frequent and on time. Sermione and Malcesine are also worth seeing, and even a walk along the promenade is breathtaking. Our ground-floor room opened onto the garden, a lovely touch, and all the rooms face the pool. The hotel is small, family run, and quiet, but close to everything. We had heavy smokers on both sides, so we kept the doors and windows shut. That was our main disappointment, and a smoking spot away from the rooms would help. Breakfast was a small buffet with plenty of choice and exceptional fresh coffee. Dinner was three courses, with a menu to fill in at breakfast. There was a buffet for bread, salad, eggs, pasta, and vegetables, then the rest was served at the table. It felt like a nice restaurant, with immaculately dressed, attentive staff. The food was cooked fresh with little waste. Drinks went on the bill to settle at the end, and we had the same assigned table throughout our stay. The old-fashioned decor doesn't take away from the experience.

The pool and the area around it were great, and all the staff were friendly and helpful. A special thanks to Kristina in the restaurant. We ate well at breakfast and dinner, with plenty of choice. The bedrooms are somewhat dated, but clean, with very comfortable beds and air conditioning that worked well. We'd certainly return.

We booked the Continental for our next Garda visit, and this time we'll choose half board. We were meeting family and had booked independently, so we only took bed and breakfast. The hotel was a happy surprise, since our usual place wasn't available. It's a delightful family-run hotel, and the service from the family and team was exemplary. Our room was easily big enough for two, and the whole hotel was spotless. Most of Garda, including the bus and boat stations, is within a ten-minute walk.