Opening its doors to guests at the beginning of the twentieth century, the Lido Palace knows how to create a five-star experience, and it’s one of my top recommendations when clients come to me seeking the crème de la crème of our Lake Garda holidays.
Your day (or longer if you’re feeling extravagant) of indulgence begins the moment you set eyes on the sensational facade of the hotel. Despite being neglected to disrepair over the decades, it has been brought back to its former Belle Époque glory with a few modern twists by a refurbishment that earned awards on its completion in 2011. The neo-classical architecture harks back to the hotel’s regal history, which includes visits from the Archduke Franz Ferdinand and King Vittorio Emanuele and Queen Elena of Italy.
Then, step inside the breathtaking building and continue your journey into over-the-top elegance as you’re treated to world-class service and an unforgettable dining experience. A visit to the Lido Palace is truly a feast for all the senses.
A Royal Breakfast
They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so why not feed your body and soul with some haute cuisine. Allow the aroma of freshly ground coffee to wake you up gently as you take in the breathtaking views of Riva del Garda’s marina and the surrounding mountains. During the summer months, I’d advise taking this tranquil moment out onto the terrace where you can enjoy an energising orange juice in the Italian sunshine.
To sweeten up your morning, choose from a variety of beautiful baked cakes created by Head Chef Giuseppe Sestito. Or, to prepare yourself for the gourmet day ahead, I’d recommend something a little lighter, like a cleansing smoothie made from locally grown produce.
Lunching at Leisure
In between tranquil treatments at the CXI spa and a dip in the soothing baths, enjoy a light lunch offering dishes that celebrate the region’s organic fruits and vegetables. Past guests have loved having the option of a slightly more indulgent lunch, served in the Tremani bistrot, which highlights the hotel’s avant-garde elements with panoramic glass windows. Complete with zen-like views of Lake Garda, holidays have never been so relaxing.
Evening of Elegance
Following a day of relaxation, dining at the hotel’s prestigious restaurant, Il Re della Busa, is the pinnacle of your fine dining experience. Food connoisseurs will delight at the dishes on offer, and for those finding it hard to choose there’s a wonderful tasting menu that changes seasonally.
The food is complemented by the restaurant’s awe-inspiring design: the restaurant is located inside an impressive glass structure that allows magnificent views of the lake beyond. On a temperate evening, you can dine out on the candle-lit terrace for a truly magical experience.
Classy Cocktails
Gourmands will want to conclude their evening of gastronomic delights with a nightcap in the Balì Bar. Here, cocktails are carefully concocted to your taste, while you admire the contrast of the modern pieces and original Art Nouveau frescoes displayed on the walls.
Of all our Lake Garda holidays, a day of indulgence at the Lido Palace is an unmissable experience for anyone with an appetite for quality and indulgence.
John Dixon is an experienced world traveller and the Managing Director of Prestige Holidays. For over 30 years, he has been providing luxury Lake Garda holidays, as well as holidays to Bermuda, Sicily and many other destinations around the globe. John tries to visit each of the destinations regularly in order to ensure the quality of his properties, and stay up-to-date about the latest local news and events. He has a taste for the finer things in life and has an interest in arts, history and culture.
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