This hotel is absolute perfection as stated in most reviews. I will add a few points of information when staying here. Staff is extremely responsive by email prior to stay. Also, our bill was accurate at checkout.
The rooms: The rooms were immaculate and regular housekeeping was provided. We stayed in room 209 which had a double terrace and was lovely. We were directly across from the elevator and there was no noise or disruption from this. We were able to regulate the temperature in our room with a wall thermostat. This was great.
In our room, there were robes for the two of us and flip flops. Shower soap, hand soap, shampoo, conditioner and lotion were provided along with plenty of bath and hand towels. Boxes of Kleenex were provided. A hair dryer was provided in the room. There was ample room to store luggage and clothing. There were two closets that had plenty of hangers, along with additional pillows and blankets. There was a safe in one of the closets. The bed was very comfortable. We had a long stay and were able to use the kitchen which had a sink, two burners, microwave, dishwasher, pots/pans, plates, silverware, cups, glasses, bowls, and a corkscrew. Dish soap, cloths, towels, and dishwasher soap were provided. If you want a coffee pot for the room, staff will provide. We were gifted a very large bowl of fruit and a bottle of Prosecco upon arrival for our 40th anniversary. Fresh bottled water is provided in your room. We also did some laundry. There is a community laundry room. One load to wash and dry was 10 euros. Detergent and softener was provided and staff will show you how to use the machines. The laundry room is open 24 hours.
Reception and main lounge: Staff are available 7:00 a.m.-10:30 p.m. The reception area had local information available and staff was also very helpful explaining local attractions. They also provide a helpful list of restaurants for Stresa. There are umbrellas available for a rainy day.
Breakfast was served 8 a.m.-10:00 a.m. in the dining area. Cost was 5 or 20 euros and you ordered the day before. You can also have breakfast in your room and if you decide to do this in the morning, you just call the main desk from the room phone. There was an orange juice machine also. Breakfast was a lovely option and staff explains the difference between the two breakfasts when you arrive. We thought this was reasonable and ate here each day. There are tables inside and also outside overlooking the water. There are also places in town for breakfast which is a 5 minute walk if you do not want to eat here.
During the day and evening, this common area is available to use. There are some games and books on a shelf. There are also light snacks available for purchase, wine, alcohol, freshly brewed coffee, etc. We ordered an extra bottle of Prosecco for our room one night. It was reasonable. I ordered a cappuccino one afternoon and it was wonderful. Again, these were reasonably priced.
The hotel arranged a private taxi for us to and from Milan airport with Fabio. This was easy and convenient. Travel time was under one hour. We also needed a taxi to go to a restaurant up the mountain and staff arranged transportation.
Ferry station is a 5 minute walk away. The staff at the ferry station was helpful with navigation around the lake.
Town is a 5 minute walk. This is an easy walk and we as an older couple felt very safe. Multiple shopping, eating, gelato and bakery places are available along with a grocery store and drugstore.
This is a small hotel with 12 rooms. What sets this hotel apart from any other hotel is the magnificent staff. Alessia, Angelique, and Youssef are the most hard working, kind, generous, professional and helpful staff. We worked mostly with Youssef and he will always hold a special place in our hearts. He checked us in and helped us a great deal with navigating the area. Thank you to all of you. You make a difference and are greatly appreciated. We will return. Sonia and Scott