Hotel Excelsior Bay
Lakeside setting right on the shores of Lake Garda Great for couples and older teens (12+ minimum age) Small, welcoming hotel with just 70 rooms Lovely outdoor pool area with lake views Close to Malcesine resort centre & Monte Baldo cable car Free Wi-Fi throughout
Overview
Set right on the edge of Lake Garda with cinematic views towards Monte Baldo, Hotel Excelsior Bay is a small, characterful bolthole that’s tailor‑made for couples. Think lazy days by the pool, aperitivo on the rooftop terrace and romantic strolls into Malcesine’s medieval centre along the lakefront promenade. With only 70 rooms, service feels personal and relaxed – an ideal base for living out your own slice of La Dolce Vita.
Gallery
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Map & location
Malcesine, Lake Garda, Italy
Malcesine is one of Lake Garda’s most romantic spots, all cobbled lanes, harbourside cafés and that fairytale Scaliger Castle. Hotel Excelsior Bay sits directly on the lakefront, so you can stroll out along the promenade or settle into a lounger and watch ferries glide past.
Mountain lovers can ride the Monte Baldo cable car for big Alpine views and hiking trails, while foodies will appreciate the cluster of authentic trattorias, gelaterie and wine bars within walking distance. It’s a setting that works as well for slow‑paced pool days as it does for active lake and mountain adventures.
- Approx. transfer time from airport around 1 hour 45 minutes from Verona (VRN) – usually including a short feeder taxi between the main coach and the hotel due to narrow local streets.
Facilities
Pool & outdoors
The hotel’s outdoor freshwater pool is the social heart of the property, set just back from the lake with loungers and parasols lining the sun terrace. Open roughly May to late September, it’s the spot for lazy swims followed by a good book and a glass of something chilled.
Pool towels are available with a refundable deposit, so you can travel light. There’s no beach as such – you’re on the lakeshore – but a lakeside promenade and jetties put the water right at your feet for tranquil walks and picture‑perfect moments.
Spa, sports & wellness
Active guests are looked after with a compact but well‑equipped gym featuring cardio machines, free weights and a sauna, generally open daily for guests aged 16+. After a day hiking Monte Baldo or exploring lakeside towns, you can ease tired legs with a massage in the small spa area (extra charge; minimum age 16, seasonal opening and hours apply).
Other useful touches include a 24‑hour reception with concierge‑style assistance, luggage storage and the option to hire items such as a fan or wheelchair (local charges may apply). The hotel is certified sustainable, so expect thoughtful touches around energy, water and waste, in keeping with Lake Garda’s pristine environment.
Activities
? Lakeside promenade walks from the hotel door
⛰️ Easy access to Monte Baldo cable car for hiking and viewpoints
? Boat trips and ferries to other Lake Garda towns (from Malcesine harbour)
? On‑site gym with cardio machines and free weights (16+, seasonal hours)
? Spa area with sauna and massages (16+, extra charge)
? Romantic sunset spots around the lake and rooftop terrace
Guest services
?️ 24‑hour reception and friendly concierge-style support
? Luggage storage for early arrivals and late departures
? Free Wi‑Fi throughout the hotel
? Equipment hire including fans and wheelchairs (local charges may apply)
? Pool towels available with refundable deposit
♻️ Certified sustainable hotel with eco‑conscious practices
Food & drink
Mornings at Hotel Excelsior Bay start with breakfast in the bright breakfast room, where you can fuel up on continental favourites before heading out to explore the lake. During the day, the snack bar looks after casual bites and light lunches, ideal if you’re staying put by the pool or lakeshore.
The cosy bar serves drinks in the morning and evening within its seasonal opening dates – perfect for a pre‑ or post‑dinner aperitivo without straying far.
A smart‑casual dress code may apply in dining areas, and restaurant/bar opening times and offerings can vary by season and board basis (check the latest details on arrival).
Rooms
Double or Twin Room
Sleeps: Minimum 2 | Maximum 3
Cosy, classically styled rooms offering good value without compromising on essentials. Choose a double or twin set‑up and enjoy either a balcony or terrace for a breath of Garda air just outside your door.
Key features include:
– Flat screen TV
– Free Wi‑Fi
– Safety deposit box
– Balcony or terrace
– Hairdryer
– Minibar (local charges apply)
– Shower room
– Air conditioning
– Daily room cleaning service
Double Room with Lake View
Sleeps: Minimum 2 | Maximum 2
Made for couples who want those “wow” moments. These rooms include a balcony with direct lake views – perfect for a quiet morning coffee or an evening glass of wine as the light fades over the water. They also come with upgraded touches such as bathrobes and slippers.
Key features include:
– Flat screen TV
– Free Wi‑Fi
– Safety deposit box
– Balcony with lake view
– Bathrobe and slippers
– Hairdryer
– Minibar (local charges apply)
– Shower room
– Air conditioning
– Daily room cleaning service
*Images indicative; layouts/views may vary.
More info
Malcesine sits on the eastern shore of Lake Garda and combines lake views with easy mountain access. Italian is the local language, the currency is the Euro (€), and the time difference from the UK is typically +1 hour. Average flight time from the UK to Verona is around 2.5 hours, followed by an approximately 1 hour 45 minute road transfer to the hotel.
Due to the resort’s narrow streets, a short feeder taxi usually connects the main transfer coach to Hotel Excelsior Bay on arrival and departure – staff will guide you through this simple process.
*Facilities, opening dates and times can be seasonal and may change without notice; some services carry a local charge. For entry rules and health guidance see the UK FCDO Italy advice.
Prices & book
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Live availability and real-time offers. Low deposits, full ATOL protection.