Hotel Regina Palace

• Situated just a 5 minute walk from Stresa

• Picturesque views of the surrounding hills and gardens from the swimming pool

• Four star traditional hotel with a spa and two restaurants 

Imposing, stately and opulent, Regina Palace is where you go if you have ever dreamed of becoming a member of the aristocracy. It offers a taste of a bygone era: lavish period decoration, art nouveau details, chandeliers, stained glass and a feature staircase. Everything here is done with impeccable taste - rooms are decorated with the elegance of the 1900s and many include frescoes and four-poster beds. Amenities, however, are slick and modern. You really do get the best of both worlds at Regina Palace!

The historic hotel has been welcoming guests for over 100 years. Queen Sofia of Greece was a regular visitor, as was George Bernard Shaw, as were many members of the international aristocracy. It’s unsurprising really - the hotel commands wonderful views of Lake Maggiore, and its privileged placement, just five minutes from Stresa, means that it is an easy and pleasant walk to get to the pretty town. 

The impeccable park is packed full of surprises, including fishponds and water features. The freeform pool at the rear of the gardens is lovely and has lots of sunbeds for relaxing the day away. Guests are also invited to enjoy the spa’s indoor pool, sauna, Turkish bath, hot tub and gym. There is also a tennis and football court for hire.

If you want to spread your wings a little further afield, then the gorgeous Borromeo Islands are just a 20-minute boat ride away. Milan is easily reachable by train in just over an hour.

The hotel has 224 rooms (official rating 4 star). Child prices apply to ages 2-12 years. Minimum stay 3 nights.