Boutique Hotel Stresa

Our review here is for the rooftop bar (“The Rooftop Perlage”) in this hotel. We got here by taking a “wrong turn” that turned out to be a “right” move (we were on our way somewhere else when we ended up here, and we were glad we did)! This spot is fabulous and we highly recommend it! The staff are excellent -- welcoming, professional, and helpful in drink recommendations (not the least expensive bar in town, but worth the splurge). They even treated us to a complimentary selection of tiny hors d’oeuvres to accompany our glasses of red wine. The best part of the experience, though, was the beautiful view over the lake and watching the sun set behind the mountains as we sat back in the comfy chairs and sipped our drinks. This was followed by the moon shining above and the lights of the towns across the lake twinkling. The Rooftop Perlage seems to be a fairly new place and, so far, maybe not well known … however, that shouldn’t be for long!!

This hotel was a pleasant surprise and a highlight of our trip in the northern lake regions of Italy. We had to leave the Lake Como region as we were only able to find one night for an acceptable hotel there (i.e. clean and not run down), so we drove on to Lago Maggiore hoping our newly booked hotel would be as wonderful as the pictures showed. We ended up staying two nights and we were very sad to leave onto the next portion of our trip! To put it into perspective we came from a Hilton to this hotel and while the Hilton was impressive, there was something more pleasing and charming here. It is a completely new hotel along Lago Maggiore. Having finished construction in late August/early September, they had almost no wear and tear in the hotel. It is also ideal as it is located close to a ferry location, no more than 10 minute walk. This made it ideal for visiting the other islands around the lake. Their downstairs dinning room for breakfast and dinner were absolutely amazing. I cannot say enough about the chef or the professionalism of the staff. The knowledge of their maître d' taught us so much not only about the different food and wines, but the history and culture of this beautiful Italian city. They have a roof top area for lunch and I do recommend you use it as the view is spectacular. It is a relaxing way to spend the evening. Also, as it is located right along the lake, there is a long access of walkway just on the other side of the street to stroll and enjoy the views of not only the lake but some of the islands you may visit. A good consideration when having to walk off the excess meals you are sure to delight in! If you are in the norther lake region, do make Stresa a planned stop. I believe you will enjoy it much more than Lake Como as it is far enough from Milan so that it does not suffer as much from traffic congestion as Lake Como. And if you are staying in Stresa, look no further than here.