Grand Hotel Riva
Stunning lakeside setting in central Riva del Garda In the atmospheric old town, moments from cafés and shops Comfortable, unfussy base for exploring Lake Garda Small rooftop sky pool with panoramic mountain views Great choice for couples and friends who like to be in the heart of things Free Wi-Fi throughout
Overview
Set between pastel façades and Riva del Garda’s lively harbour, Grand Hotel Riva is all about location. Step outside into the old town’s cobbled lanes, or head to the rooftop sky pool for sweeping views of Lake Garda and the mountains beyond. Inside, this classic Italian hotel offers a comfortable base with spa facilities, a panoramic restaurant and easy access to ferries, lakeside promenades and hiking trails.
Gallery
22 photos
Map & location
Riva, Lake Garda, Italy
Grand Hotel Riva enjoys a prime position right in Riva del Garda’s historic centre, just behind the lakeside promenade. Cobbled lanes, bustling piazzas and pastel-hued façades unfold in every direction, while the harbour – gateway to lake ferries and boat trips – is only a short stroll away.
You’re around 100m from Lake Garda itself and roughly 750m from a lakeside beach, with scenic walking and cycling routes fanning out along the shore and into the surrounding hills. Cafés, wine bars, trattorias and gelaterias sit almost on the doorstep, so you can immerse yourself in local life from day one.
- Transfer drop-off 200m from the hotel (short walk with luggage may be required)
- Approx. transfer time from airport 2 hours 30 minutes (from Verona – VRN)
Facilities
Pool & outdoors
The hotel’s sky pool is its calling card:
Rooftop Sky Pool
A compact outdoor freshwater pool sits on the roof terrace, edged by a sunbathing area with loungers. It’s more of a scenic plunge pool than a lap pool, but the real draw is the 360° panorama – terracotta roofs, shimmering lake and rugged peaks.
There is no private beach, but you’re only around 750m from a public lakeside beach, with additional bathing spots and piers dotted along the waterfront. Facilities at public beaches may be seasonally operated and locally charged.
Spa, sports & wellness
Spa & Wellness
Unwind in the spa area after a day on the trails or ferries. Facilities typically include:
– Sauna
– Turkish bath
– Relaxation area
The wellness centre usually operates between May and September, roughly 14:00–20:00, with a minimum age of 14 years. Treatments and access may incur local charges; availability can change with season and occupancy.
Other Facilities
– 24-hour reception (hours may vary)
– Concierge-style assistance for restaurant bookings and local tips
– Luggage storage for early arrivals/late departures
– Two lifts serving the main guest floors
There is no on-site gym or sports programme, but Lake Garda is a natural playground for walking, cycling and watersports, with rental shops and local providers close by.
Activities
While Grand Hotel Riva doesn’t organise a full daytime activity programme, it’s very well placed for independent exploration and relaxed evenings.
? Occasional Evening Entertainment
– Live music on selected evenings (typically May–September)
– Low-key, convivial atmosphere rather than full-scale shows
? Out & About (locally arranged)
– Lakeside walking and cycling trails starting close to the hotel
– Easy access to lake ferries for visiting Limone, Malcesine and other towns
– Nearby providers offer sailing, windsurfing and other watersports (seasonal, local charges)
Programme details and availability vary by season; check locally for what’s on during your stay.
Guest services
?️ Reception with concierge-style support
? Luggage storage for early arrivals or late departures
? Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel
? Daily housekeeping, regular linen and towel changes
♨️ Spa area with sauna and Turkish bath (seasonal; minimum age 14; local charges may apply)
? Two lifts serving guest floors
Please note there is no on-site parking and vehicle access in the old town may be restricted; speak to reception for advice on nearby car parks if you’re hiring a car.
Food & drink
Dining at Grand Hotel Riva centres around Italian flavours and sweeping lake views.
Restaurant 5° Floor
Perched on the top floor, this restaurant serves buffet and à la carte Italian dishes for breakfast and dinner, with windows framing Lake Garda and the surrounding peaks – a real highlight at sunrise and sunset.
Ground Floor Restaurant
An à la carte restaurant on the ground level, open seasonally (typically April–October) for leisurely lunches and dinners with a focus on regional Italian cuisine.
Lounge Bar
A relaxed lounge bar (usually April–October, roughly 09:00–23:00) pours Italian wines, aperitivi and classic cocktails – ideal for a pre-dinner spritz or a nightcap after wandering the old town.
Smart-casual dress may apply in the restaurants. Opening times, menus, supplements and reservation policies can vary by season and board basis; check on arrival for the latest details.
Rooms
Superior Double or Twin Room with Lake View
Sleeps: Minimum 2, Maximum 2 (plus 1 infant).
Similar in style and amenities to the Standard room, but with that added wow factor: a balcony or terrace and views towards Lake Garda or the surrounding scenery.
Includes:
– Double or twin beds
– Balcony or terrace
– Lake or partial lake/mountain views (view type may vary)
– Flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi, safe
– Kettle and fridge
– Shower bathroom, hairdryer
– Seasonal air conditioning (typically 01 Jun–30 Sep)
– Daily cleaning with regular linen and towel changes
Deluxe Double Room with Balcony
Sleeps: Minimum 2, Maximum 2 (plus 1 infant).
A step up in comfort, with a balcony or terrace and additional space, great if you like to linger in your room with a pre-dinner drink.
Facilities generally include:
– Double bed (or twins, subject to availability)
– Balcony or terrace
– Flat-screen TV and Wi-Fi
– Safety deposit box
– Kettle and fridge
– Shower bathroom, hairdryer
– Seasonal air conditioning (typically 01 Jun–30 Sep)
– Daily housekeeping, linen and towel changes
*Images indicative; layouts/views may vary. Room décor can differ between floors and wings.
More info
Resort insights
Riva del Garda is one of Lake Garda’s most scenic northern towns, framed by dramatic mountains and a lively harbour. Narrow streets and historic landmarks – including a 12th-century fortress – sit alongside café-lined piazzas perfect for people-watching with a gelato or an Aperol Spritz. It’s also a great base for walkers, cyclists and watersports fans, with ferries and trails in easy reach.
Good to know
– Language: Italian
– Currency: Euro (€)
– Time difference: GMT +1 hour (daylight saving applies)
– Average flight time from UK: around 2.5 hours
– Nearest airport: Verona (VRN)
– Typical transfer time: approx. 2 hours 30 minutes by road
Hotel information is based on the most recent supplier details and may change; some facilities and services are seasonal, weather-dependent or subject to local charges. For entry rules and health guidance see the UK FCDO Italy advice.
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