Villa e Palazzo Aminta, Lake Maggiore

While the road leading to the hotel can get busy - particularly in the summer - once you're inside, the atmosphere is calm and relaxed. The views of the lake islands are sublime.

The hotel is just under 1km from Stresa, on the lakefront road.

By plane: London to Milan Malpensa takes under 2 hours and Manchester to Milan Malpensa takes 2 hours 15 minutes, after which, it's an hour's drive to the hotel. Free on-site parking available. Book flights to Milan.

A Belle Epoque mansion with Liberty-style interiors, the décor is very Italian - think marble columns, Venetian floors and wooden antiques. The hotel is still family run, creating a warm and welcoming ambience. The owners' collection of objets d'art from around the world add to the grandeur.

Facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, private beach and spa. Service is professional and discreet; staff are welcoming and attentive, and happy to organise activities and excursions, from helicopter tours to private cooking classes. Private boat tours and island visits leave from the hotel jetty and there's a free shuttle to Stresa.

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

Rooms are spread out over five floors and each category had its own colour scheme, ranging from red and gold to pink and pearl. Marble bathrooms have whirlpool bathtubs. Some accommodation has slightly more modern décor.

Room types: Room, Deluxe, Junior Suite, Belvedere Suite, Liz Taylor Suite, La Borromea Suite, Deluxe Villa, Apartment

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, bathrobes and slippers, balcony or terrace, TV, free Wi-Fi

Restaurant I Mori has lake views, while Le Isole offers al fresco dining on a pleasant terrace. Head to the bar for pre- or post-prandial drinks. We loved that the waiters engage with guests, and dishes are presented with a little drama.

I Mori: romantic restaurant, traditional Italian cuisine.

Le Isole: fine dining, Italian cuisine. Open for lunch and dinner.

I Principi: bar serving snacks and gelato, coffee by day, cocktails by night. Open all-day.