Residence Garda Palace

We enjoyed the location, with plenty of places to eat nearby, a 7-minute walk to the train station and about 12 minutes on foot to the walled city of Peschiera and the ferry. There’s also a pool. Our apartment had two bedrooms, two bathrooms and two air conditioners, plus a table and banana lounge out front. We’d booked for five, but there were only two of us. It was clean and neat. Check-in was meant to be at 3 pm, though the place wasn’t ready until 3:15. That was fine since reception let us leave our bags earlier and go explore. The staff were very helpful and apologetic, so I can’t fault the premises.

Inside, the Residence Garda Palace was a pleasant surprise, with plenty of space for our group of four adults and one child. It worked well for a family, and the kitchen had the basic essentials. We liked the terrace, large pool and small garden, along with the friendly, attentive staff and contactless check-in. There’s also ample parking in a large underground garage. The outside looked a little uninviting and the property felt somewhat dated. Pool rules didn’t seem to be enforced, since we didn’t see any staff around.

The location made it easy to get around, and it was quiet at night even though it wasn’t lake facing. The train station is close, and the lake is a 5-10 minute walk. Gardaland is nearby too. The kids loved the pool, and the staff were friendly and helpful. The air conditioning wasn’t working, but it fortunately wasn’t too hot, so we managed. We’d go back with the family.

We had a great stay. The hotel was clean, safe and secure, and the pool was well maintained with enough sun beds. They even put up the bouncy castle when we asked. The guy at reception with the funky moustache was super helpful. It’s about a 10-minute walk to the lively centre and the lake, where the restaurants are, and 7 minutes to the train station. From there, the free shuttle goes to Garda Land theme park, Legoland water park on the same site, and Movieland. You can also catch the daily 164 bus to Verona outside the station. Buy a ticket at a newsagent or the station ticket machine before boarding, as it costs more on the bus. The direct train to Venice takes 1.5 hours. The hotel has the basics you need for a short stay.