Locanda San Vigilio

The hotel’s old, a bit rickety, and the floorboards squeak. That’s part of the charm for me. I love the atmosphere and the people, and it’s in my top ten anywhere in the world. It suits travellers who care about history and beauty more than modern comforts. Everyone I met here was lovely. I’m glad I haven’t had to meet the people who give it one star.

We’ve spent every summer at Locanda San Vigilio for ten years, which says a lot about how much we value this unique place. There’s nowhere else quite like it. The traditional, old-fashioned feel is part of the appeal, and the newer touches, like improved bathroom lighting and coffee machines and kettles in the rooms, are welcome. Breakfast outside is a highlight, with a generous spread and excellent service. Dagma and the reception team were wonderfully kind and knew the local area well. Every detail feels elegant, with those ever-changing views over the lake. Room 7 is especially nice for its big lake-facing balcony, though any lake-view room would be lovely. The harbour is a safe place to keep a motor boat, and I swam and paddle boarded from the jetty each morning. It’s on a promontory at the start of the mountainous northern part of the lake, so you can explore north or south by car or boat. There are also great cycling routes above the lake, and the team safely stored my husband’s bike for us.

The view was breathtaking, and the staff were attentive and friendly. With clear water and perfect weather, it was a lovely place to relax. I also really enjoyed the drinks, and the cappuccino was especially good. Prices were quite reasonable for the quality, which was a nice surprise. The atmosphere felt elegant, with many guests from the upper echelons of society. It’s a comfortable, luxurious place without feeling overly expensive, and I’d recommend staying here.

I’d eaten at the restaurant for a work dinner two years ago and had a good experience, so I wanted to return with my husband. I called on four different days to book. Each time, the woman who answered said she couldn’t take an advance reservation because guests had priority, and asked me to call on the day after 11am. When I did on August 21st, she said they were full and couldn’t take us. I was having an aperitif at the tavern next door that evening and could see the restaurant wasn’t full all night. Less than half the terrace tables were occupied. I went to reception and asked to speak with the manager, but the receptionist refused to call them and said I’d have to speak with her. She then acknowledged the restaurant wasn’t actually full, but said they couldn’t take more people because of service capacity. In August, they apparently didn’t have enough staff to serve even a restaurant that isn’t very big. The receptionist’s behavior, and especially the explanations I got on each call, were unacceptable and turned out not to be true. I won’t return.