Du Lac et Du Parc Grand Resort

We’ve stayed here three times in four years, mostly because the hotel sits in a beautiful park by the lake. This visit, though, we noticed quite a few signs that things are slipping. Breakfast was never amazing, but it got worse day by day, with cheeses, cakes, juices and other items running out. The selection is so limited that more than six nights would get boring. The hotel food is very average for Italy and needs a complete rethink. Some of the changes are just inconvenient. You now have to collect and return towels at the basement sauna, which is ridiculous if you’re using the outdoor pools. Staff in golf carts also whiz along the paths and make guests move out of the way. Our room had fewer basics than ever: no spoon or bottle opener, and the shower had shampoo and a mask but no shower gel. There was no bottled water either, despite the €400 a night price. At checkout, nobody even asked how the stay had been. It gave the impression they weren’t bothered. I expect bookings will stay high, with Lake Garda more popular than ever, but management needs to take an honest look at these obvious problems before they keep growing.

The view was the only thing that made this feel worthwhile. It definitely didn’t feel like a 4-star experience. There was no iron in the room, and we were told to leave the hotel and go to another building to iron our clothes. Bringing ice to the room cost €5. The sauna doesn’t open until 1pm on several days of the week, and no one told us. The front desk staff were very unhelpful. We had paper cups in the room, no water replenishment, and when we asked for body wash because there wasn’t any, they gave us hand wash instead. Pool drinks have to be requested from the main bar, so there’s a 10-minute wait, and a €15 cocktail came in a cheap plastic cup. The hotel seems to rely on its grounds and view. I wouldn’t recommend it.

The location is beautiful, and I had a very nice stay overall. The hotel had a lovely atmosphere, the restaurant service was great, and the staff were warm and welcoming. The spa was relaxing enough, though nothing special. Reception was the weak point, as the team’s attitude and communication could be better. I still enjoyed the stay, and the location made it worthwhile.

Just go, and give yourself a week. Ride the dedicated bike trail to Arco or even Dro, then stop at Madonna Vittorie for a tasting on the way back. You can hike to Pregasina, take the ferry to Limone Sul Garda and Malcesine, and check out Lago di Tenno. Eat dinner here too.