Grand Hotel A Villa Feltrinelli Gargnano - Lombardy

The Grand Hotel a Villa Feltrinelli enjoys a fabulous position on the shores of Lake Garda. The villa dates back to 1892, when it was built as summer residence for the sons of the extremely affluent Faustino Feltrinelli, Italy's celebrated lumber magnate. The edifice was built according to the designs of architect Alberico Barbiano di Belgioioso in ornate Italian Liberty style, complete with castle like turrets. A century later, in 1997, the villa was purchased by hotelier Bob Burns, who extensively restored the property and transformed it in one of the world's most exclusive luxury hotels.

Just 21 individually appointed guestrooms and suites, distributed in the main villa and 3 attractive "guesthouses", offer a selected clientele the utmost in luxury; adorned with original antique furniture from the villa, handcrafted lamps in Murano glass, and lavish drapes. Of the 13 rooms situated in the main villa, seven feature frescoed ceilings painted in the 1890's by the Lieti brothers. Bathrooms are wonderfully spacious and fitted with marble floors, French porcelain bathtubs and separate shower units.

The Grand Hotel a Villa Feltrinelli's sumptuous entrance lobby features the historic residence's original faux marble chandelier, suspended from the rooms stupendous coffered ceiling. The library, containing a unique collection of vintage National Geographic and Life magazines, and numerous volumes of classical literature, also houses a vast selection of films. A grand Bösendorfer piano takes pride of place in the Salon, the walls of which are lined with antique Venetian mirrors reflecting an enchanting vista of Lake Garda.

Guests dining at Grand Hotel a Villa Feltrinelli enjoy superb regional and Italian cuisine, prepared using only the finest seasonal ingredients. The quite impeccable wine list is comprised of an excellent selection of Italian and international wines. During the summer, the pergola adjacent to the main dining room is transformed in charming outside dining venue.