Hotel Lido Palace, Lake Garda

This area on the lake's northern shore is popular with sports enthusiasts who partake in anything from windsurfing and kitesurfing to canyoning and climbing. The location is ideal for walking to the heart of the town.

The hotel is nestled in a large leafy park in Riva del Garda - setset amid dramatic rocky cliffs and close to the lakeside promenade.

By plane: London to Verona takes just over 2 hours, after which, it's an hour's drive to the hotel. Free on-site parking available. Book flights to Verona.

Dating back to 1899, this grand palazzo turned stylish hotel combines its original features with playful contemporary décor - think high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows, combined with abstract artworks on the walls.

Staff are professional and personable - and happy to organise activities, including wine tastings at a nearby vineyard or boat trips on the lake. Guests can relax and recharge with a walk around the leafy gardens or a treatment in the spa.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Garden
• Swimming pool
• Gym
• Spa
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

Rooms are spacious and stylish, with dramatic lake views. Furnishings are contemporary with colourful touches to create warmth and vibrancy. Bathrooms are sleek with cream and chocolate brown fittings.

Room types: Single; Design, Deluxe, Terrace, Sky Studios; Junior, Panorama, Signature, Presidential Suites

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, bathrobes and slippers, hairdryer, tea and coffee-making facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi

The Tremani Bistrot is an informal dining space, focusing on light and tasty Mediterranean cuisine. We loved that dishes are prepared using local ingredients, following traditional recipes with a contemporary twist. For drinks, you must head to Balì Bar, which also serves snacks.

Tremani: Bistro dining, mains include venison sirloin and seared octopus. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Balì Bar: open daily, 10am-midnight for drinks. Snacks served 12-2:30pm and 7-9:30pm.