Lido Palace Baveno - Baveno, Italy     

We had a fantastic week at this hotel which was idlyllic with wonderful views overlooking the lake. The owners who staff the hotel could not do enough for us and were always very friendly and cheerful. We were lucky enough to be given the Winston Churchill suite which we believe to be the best room in the hotel with 2 double beds and huge balcony overlooking the lake. The food was excellent with breakfast and dinner served in the main dining room again with lake views. The gardens were beautifully kept and the pool area was spotlessly clean. The hotel is within walking distance from Baveno which is a small town with a few shops including a supermarket, there are also a couple of restaurants there. You can also catch the ferry boats in Baveno which go across to the islands. If you don't eat in the hotel restaurant we would recommend you take a boat across to Isola Piscatori to restaurant Verbano - this was an idyllic trip and although the food was rather expensive it was well worth it. The hotel will organise the boat across which goes from the jetty just in front of the hotel. Also a must is to go up to the top of the Monte Mottarone by cable car (which you catch in Stresa) - the views from the top are breathtaking. We will be going back!!

We have recently returned from a 10 night stay at this hotel and had a fabulous time. The hotel is family run and they are so friendly and helpful, nothing is too much trouble. We had an eaves room with lake view. The rooms were very clean and the sheets etc. were changed daily. The restaurant had views overlooking the lake. The food was a buffet breakfast and their was a good choice for the evening meal. The food was plentifull and the quality was superb. I would definitely recommend this hotel and will be returning.