Every arrival at Villa Arcadio begins with a drive up a narrow lane to this hidden estate, set in the hills above the little town of Salò and framed by the mountains of the province of Brescia. Step inside the historic house and you find yourself on a terrace with white-clothed tables, colorful lamps and a gorgeous view of the lake. Below the villa are only meadows and trees; there are no neighbors. By your first glass of sparkling wine (do try the Franciacorta), you are in full vacation mode and realize that not much can go wrong from here.
Villa Arcadio has 18 beautiful rooms (14 doubles, three junior suites and one suite), a swimming pool and a restaurant, so you can happily spend the whole day up here, as many guests do.
The minds behind this unique property are Jaana, originally from Helsinki, and Francesco, from Brescia. They had always dreamed of a hotel by the lake, and in 1996 they found a ruin: a former medieval monastery, with frescoes dating back to the 14th century. They rebuilt it and filled it with antiques and beautiful art. Today the hotel is run by Jaana’s son Aki, who looks after every guest personally; you are in very good hands with him.
What can we say? The place has real magic. The location, the view, the eclectic furniture in the restaurant, the old-school charm of the bar, the art: everything is simply idyllic. True, the pool is no work of art like some in Provence, but up here that hardly matters. It’s no wonder discerning couples choose this house for their weddings.
Culinary
Chef Glauco Zini, from Mantua, is a great connoisseur of the traditions and recipes of Lake Garda. He cares deeply about the sustainability of the region and is always on the lookout for the tastiest, freshest ingredients from small artisanal producers, some of them straight from the villa’s kitchen garden. The style is a mix of fine dining and relaxed family-style meals, and of course there is a wine list for every occasion.
Surroundings
Below Villa Arcadio lie Lake Garda and the genuinely lovely town of Salò. Unless you are strolling along the promenade in high season, you still get a taste of everyday Italian life here. Rent a Riva boat at the harbor and take a spin to the town of Garda and what we think is the lake’s most beautiful bay. Or explore the hinterland by mountain bike; the hotel is happy to arrange the gear.
Ideal for
For anyone within a five- or six-hour drive of Lake Garda, there is hardly a better hotel for a stylish getaway, especially in spring and fall. The nice thing about Villa Arcadio is that you can enjoy your aperitivo on the terrace in the evening and not have to drive anywhere for dinner.
Prices
Doubles from about 280 euros (around 340 euros in the high season), including breakfast.
Booking & Contact
Villa Arcadio
Via Navelli 2
25087 Salò (Lake Garda)
Italy
