Hotel Royal

This charming hotel offers a memorable stay, particularly noted for its extraordinary rooftop terrace which provides breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and islands. Guests consistently highlight the attentive and friendly staff, the hotel's impeccable cleanliness, and the excellent breakfast as key elements of their positive experience. Its traditional Italian elegance and family-run atmosphere appeal to couples seeking a romantic getaway and sightseers keen to explore the region's natural beauty. The tranquil setting, combined with convenient access to local attractions, makes it an ideal choice for travelers desiring a peaceful retreat. To fully appreciate the stunning surroundings, guests are advised to consider a room with a lake view and to take advantage of the hotel's close proximity to the ferry terminal for easy island excursions.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of well-maintained facilities that enhance the guest experience. The rooftop terrace is a standout feature, providing exceptional views of the lake and islands, though some guests feel it could be utilized more. The beautiful and well-kept gardens offer serene spaces for relaxation, with many guests appreciating the tranquil atmosphere. A swimming pool is available, described as clean and pleasant, though some visitors noted it was seasonal, closed during their stay, or had cold water. The charming bar and inviting lounge areas are popular spots for enjoying drinks and complimentary snacks, contributing to the hotel's traditional ambiance. Guests also benefit from a functional lift to all floors and generally accessible Wi-Fi, though a few experienced instability. Many rooms feature private balconies or terraces, offering personal outdoor space and often stunning views.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be very clean and well-maintained, with many describing them as comfortable and spacious. While some appreciate the traditional, "old-fashioned" charm, a few guests noted that certain aspects felt a little dated. Most guests report comfortable beds, though a notable number found them to be quite firm, which can be a matter of personal preference. The bathrooms are often described as large and well-equipped with toiletries, though some guests expressed a desire for walk-in showers or better shower configurations, as many feature a shower over the bath without a curtain or a fixed head. A common point of feedback is the absence of tea and coffee making facilities in the rooms, which some guests missed. Air conditioning is available, but its effectiveness and seasonality received mixed reviews. Regarding noise levels, while many found the hotel to be quiet, some experienced disturbances from road noise, neighboring rooms, or internal systems.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast at the hotel consistently receives high praise from guests, often described as excellent, plentiful, and offering a wide variety of choices. Guests appreciate the selection of hot and cold buffet items, including scrambled eggs, bacon, fresh fruit, yogurt, pastries, cold meats, and cheeses. The coffee is frequently highlighted as delicious and made to order, though a few guests suggested the need for self-service options to reduce waiting times. While the restaurant offers dinner, feedback is mixed; some guests found the food to be of a good standard and value, with ample portions and a daily changing menu. However, others described the dinner menu as limited, and some found the food quality to be disappointing or overpriced. The bar is a popular feature, known for its pleasant atmosphere and the provision of complimentary snacks during aperitivo hour, creating a convivial setting for evening drinks.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent location, particularly for those looking to explore the region's famous islands. It is conveniently situated just a few minutes' walk from a ferry terminal, providing easy and direct access to the Borromean Islands. While the main town of Stresa is about a 15 to 20-minute walk along a scenic lakeside promenade, many guests appreciate the hotel's quieter setting, away from the bustling town center. This tranquil position offers a peaceful retreat while still allowing for enjoyable strolls. Accessibility to the train station is also noted, typically a 10 to 20-minute walk, though some guests found the route less pedestrian-friendly. For guests traveling by car, free parking is available on-site, a significant advantage, although some reviews indicate that parking spaces can be limited or tight during busy periods.

Staff & Service
The staff and service at the hotel are consistently highlighted as a major strength, with guests frequently praising the team's friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Many reviews describe the staff as welcoming, attentive, and polite, contributing significantly to a positive guest experience. From the receptionists to the bar and dining room staff, their willingness to assist and their cheerful demeanor are often commended. The check-in process is generally reported as efficient. While the vast majority of feedback on service is overwhelmingly positive, a small number of guests reported isolated instances of less helpful or even rude interactions, particularly concerning the bar service or specific individuals. However, the prevailing sentiment emphasizes the staff's dedication to providing excellent and responsive service, with many noting their ability to speak multiple languages, including English.

Additional Information
This hotel is notably a family-run establishment, which many guests feel contributes to its warm, welcoming atmosphere and distinctive character. It embraces a charming, traditional Italian style, with many appreciating its "old-fashioned" elegance and the presence of interesting art and fresh flowers throughout the public spaces. Guests considering a stay should be aware that certain amenities, such as the swimming pool and air conditioning, operate on a seasonal basis. The hotel offers a half-board option, which many guests found to be a good value, particularly for dinner. While most guests found the rooms well-equipped, some noted that the towels could be improved, with a few describing them as old or rough. Overall, the hotel provides a unique experience for those seeking a blend of classic charm and attentive service.