Hotel Garden

The women working here were so friendly and helpful, with great ideas for where to go and eat. The view of the lake from my room was gorgeous to wake up to, and the beach is only a few steps outside, perfect for relaxing. I can’t recommend this place enough if you’re heading to Lago di Como!

We especially liked being able to use the water sports equipment, and the private beach gives you great access to Lake Como. You’ll need water shoes for the beach, which is pretty obvious in this area. The staff were very friendly too. It’s about a 15-minute walk to Menaggio centre and the nearest Como shop. Watch out as you walk, since the sidewalks are quite narrow. For groceries, we highly recommend the 24-hour Carrefour by Lake Lugano, about 15 minutes away by car. The small fridge and lack of a kitchenette were the downside.

Being right on the water was the best part. At night I could hear the waves nearby, which was so calming. The service was great too, with daily cleaning, and the owners were lovely and helped with every little thing. We were a couple travelling with a small child and had a spacious, very clean, well-kept room with two bedrooms and two balconies. It’s not in the centre of menaggio, but a 17-minute walk away. We weren’t in shape for that, so we drove, which took about three minutes, or took the bus, just one stop to the restaurants. The ferry for getting elsewhere was a five-minute drive.

I last stayed at this hotel 13 years ago, and it’s still a favourite. The rooms are very good, the staff are great, and the setting by the lake is superb. It’s quiet, yet Menaggio’s lively centre is an easy walk away. Just remember to request air-conditioning when booking for summer. Go, then go again!