Grand Hotel Des Iles Borromee

Absolutely stunning palatial hotel. I could not fault it - impeccable attentive service from all staff who went above and beyond. It was great to experience service from staff who gave the impression they loved their job and nothing was too much. The room was beautiful. We upgraded to the superior room with a balcony and lake views. We ordered room service for one evening meal - the food was delicious and plentiful. The spa, sauna/steam/snow room and indoor/outdoor pool facilities were great. Super clean and staff were on hand if needed. The Breakfast was included in our stay and well worth it. A lovely buffet of both cooked and continental breakfast food was available. They catered for gluten and dairy free dietary needs. There’s a huge free car park onsite. The hotel is an easy walk to Stresa and there are plenty of running routes along the lake (some without paths on main roads but well used by locals). I could not recommend this hotel enough!!

Update** spoke with the manager, he confirmed that jogger pants are allowed but not dress shorts. He look offended I even asked him and did not offer a single apology. This is not a 5 star hotel. If you're used to a luxury level of service, this is not the hotel for it. We've received better experience then this at 2 star hotels. We have now updated our review from 2 stars to 1 due to the uncaring and frankly rude behaviour of the staff. While the room and location is gorgeous, the service is not 5 stars. Its 86f (30 Celsius) in July and they won't let hotel guest into the restaurant with dress shorts and dress shirt. When we went to the front desk to further raise a complaint about this the front desk was unattended. 5 star hotels need to go out of the way to make YOU feel comfortable and not the other way around. I understand wanting an elegant dress code, but this rule makes no sense. I would be allowed in with a T-shirt and joggers, but not dress shorts and dress shirt? Very illogical and left a bad taste for our experience at this hotel. I also have celiac disease and this was one of the few places in this town that offered gluten free. It was a primary decision for us when booking the hotel. So now we need to go out of our way to find a GF place, which at first glance there is not anything guaranteed open tonight so I might just starve. Both the front desk, and the waiting staff were unapologetic. Cool place for photos, I'd reconsider staying here for a 5 star experience.