Spectacular Lake Garda once had a reputation for being exclusive, but today it’s an extremely welcoming destination, and an extremely popular one with kids - what with the beaches, the watersports, the theme parks and the easily-sold food! And some of the best family hotels on Lake Garda offer all of these things without you having to leave the grounds…
Willy B via Flickr
Though of course you will want to! Lake Garda is probably the most developed of the Italian Lakes, with plenty to keep everyone happy. Active families might like to horse-ride, windsurf, sail, mountain bike, canoe or hike, while lovers of culture will appreciate the beautiful castles. And the beautiful clean water will appeal to everyone. Plus it’s simply spectacular. Our Guru’s list of the 10 best family hotels on Lake Garda has been refined by best views, best for active families and beat value. But there’s plenty of cross over between them.
Spencer Wright via Flickr
The 10 Best Family Hotels on Lake Garda
For a room with a view

- Also in Sirmione, the Villa Pioppi is an elegant, seven room villa set within two hectares of beautiful parkland, with a swimming pool, a sun terrace and a private beach. The rooms are large, and some have lake views and private balconies. And they also offer a babysitting service.
For Active Families

- Right on the shore in Salò, the Hotel Bellerive is a charming mid-sized hotel with 46 large, stylish rooms plus an outdoor pool, a fantastic Italian concept restaurant, and sailing and golfing opportunities nearby.
- Salò also has the Hotel Laurin, a stunning hotel with 30 rooms and suites, also right on the shores of Lake Garda. Converted from an elegant 20th Century villa, guests can expect parquet floors, frescoes and Art Nouveau furniture. There’s also a lovely pool in shady gardens and an excellent restaurant.
- For families looking to experience the great outdoors as well as the watersports the lake has to offer, try Tenuta Le Sorgive, a beautifully restored 19th-century farmhouse on an organic agriturismo farm. Simple traditional rooms come with continental breakfast. Explore the orchards and vineyards or head out on a pony trek through the surrounding hills. A wonderful spot to re-engage with mother nature.
- Or try the Bella Riva in Gardone Riviera, a beautifully positioned hotel with 23 contemporary rooms and suites. an excellent restaurant and bar and a very nice pool. Plus the hotel has great watersports facilities.
For a villa stay
- The Vivere Suites are a sleek collection of ground floor suites with private gardens and kitchenettes in Arco, close to Lake Garda. The decor is contemporary, and there's an excellent spa and pool, and they offer yoga and cycle hire, and there are great restaurants close by. A great spot for total relaxation.
For great value

- The Osteria Antico Brolo in Gardone Riviera is a gorgeous restaurant with four chic, all-white rooms and suites you can stay in. Private and comfortable, and very good value, with rooms starting from around £60 per night.
- The Locanda Agli Angeli is a similar offering, a charming restaurant with nine romantic rooms - some with four-poster beds. The decor is simple, think whitewashed walls and exposed beams. And there’s a small pool. Rooms start from around £70 per night.
- Or there’s the Garni Gianmartin in Limone, is a seven room B&B on the main square, just minutes from the beach. The rooms are simple and comfortable and the suites have their own private terraces with lovely views. The breakfasts are hearty, and the rooms, with breakfasts, start from around £70 per night.
Still not sure which of our Guru’s recommendations for the 10 best family hotels on Lake Garda might be perfect for you?
The 10 Best Family Hotels on Lake Garda