Locanda San Vigilio, Lake Garda

With its extensive grounds - which are open to non-visitors as well as residents - the locanda is in one of the most charming locations on the lake. It feels a world away from the busier lakefront towns.

The hotel is set on a peninsula that juts out into Lake Garda, nestled among olive groves, oleander trees and cypresses. It's less than an hour from Verona.

By plane: London to Verona takes just over 2 hours, after which, it's a 40-minute drive to the hotel. Free on-site parking available. Book flights to Verona.

This family-owned locanda has been welcoming guests since the 16th Century. It has a warm country-house feel, with cosy interiors, wooden beams and creaky floorboards. A family-home ambience is created through the numerous antiques and family heirlooms on display.

The Parco Baia delle Sirene gardens are open to non-residents for a small fee (free for guests); inside there's a swimming pool nestled amongst olive groves and lake access. The service is warm and friendly. Staff are happy to organise excursions, from winery visits to helicopter rides).

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

Rooms are in the main villa, while the suites are more secluded and elegantly decorated with distinctive features. The country-house feel continues with persian rugs, four-poster beds, antiques and 16th-century prints all adding grandeur.

Room types: Classic, Superior, Junior, La Limonaia, Grand Suite

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, hairdyer, TV, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi

Enjoy tasty classic Italian dishes served in the cosy restaurant - think grilled octopus, turbot or linguine with clams. Head to the taverna for a lakefront setting, and watch the sunset with a drink in hand. We recommend the owners' own beer, Birra del Lago. The Bistecca Fiorentina melts in the mouth and is best enjoyed with a glass of local red wine.

The Restaurant: traditional Italian cuisine. Open daily for breakfast and dinner (lunch served seasonally).

Taverna: waterfront café, drinks, light snacks and aperitivi. Open Mar-Oct.