Along the western shore of Lake Garda, known as the Riviera dei Limoni, where the tapered shores broaden and the winds of the north settle into delicate lemon-scented breezes in the subtle beauty of Riviera Gardone, is a hotel with a grand historical pedigree, Villa Del Sogno, Villa of Dreams
The history
Built in 1910 as a residence for German silk industrialist Maximilian Friedrich Heydweiller, the celebrated mansion has had many lives.
It served as a convalescent hospital in WWI, and in 1921, it was purchased by Giovanni Breda, who dreamed of a dramatic renovation into a first-class hotel. And in 1938, the doors of Villa Del Sogno opened.
The unfortunate turmoil of WWII years later forced Breda to sell his beloved property. It is again used as a convalescent hospital, however, this time for high-ranking Nazi SS officers.
In 1945, the U.S. Army requisitions the property and uses it as a temporary command center. By 1948, political and diplomatic tensions had eased, and life was breathed back into the villa.1
Once again, guests fill the rooms, relax on the terrace, and dine in luxury. Villa Del Sogno is enhanced and enriched through the decades and stands today as a testament to the perseverance of a grand vision.
Alighted on a hillside, the villa rewards its guests with a vast, unspoiled view of Lake Garda. The driveway up from the main road, Corso Giuseppe ZanarDeli, steeply winds through the manicured terraced garden accented with vibrant foliage, scented tropical blossoms, olive and cypress trees.
The hotel prides itself on the preservation and reputation of the original Villa Del Sogno. The stately manor’s sophistication welcomes guests as they enter the foyer, adorned with intricately carved paneling, dignified furnishings, and a broad, dramatic staircase.
Throughout the property, the classical decor and embellishments are accented by a rich botanical color palette.
The rooms and suites
The rooms and suites are each uniquely decorated with original artworks and a tasteful balance of contemporary and antique furnishings.
Our executive room had a lake-facing window with a slim, undisturbed view. The bed and bedding were plush and comfortable.
Two azure blue accent chairs and a small coffee table added to the avant-garde atmosphere. Small touches, such as a room key that appeared to be original, preserve the old-world charm that is so elegantly nuanced in the hotel’s neotraditional aesthetic.
The terrace
The expansive terrace is the focal point of the property. Gazing out upon Lake Garda from the morning miasma through the radiant glow of sunset would almost be enough to occupy an entire day.
Large, relaxing chairs are plentiful, and enormous umbrellas provide a cool respite from the lakeside sun.
Potted lemon trees decorate the expanse and are delicately accompanied by pared flowering vines.
Dining
Dining at the Maximillan restaurant expanded to the verandah, and all of our meals were outstanding.
From the first Negroni through the exquisitely prepared Carpaccio di Trotta del Garda, local lake trout with micro greens and caper dust, to the sumptuous Tiramisu al Limone.
In the morning, the first cup of coffee in the fragrant, salubrious air was divine. The breakfast was a splendid buffet with fresh yogurt, fruit, and viennoiseries (sweet buns), accompanied by farm-fresh eggs to order.
The pool
A short stroll from the main house takes you to the pool, where a soft towel and lounge chair await after a refreshing swim.
The pool bar was not open during our stay in May, but in the summer months, the full-service bar is in full swing.
Lined with vibrant blossoming bushes, the pool deck overlooks a timeless olive grove with a southern view of the lake and the town of Salo.
If you explore just a little, you will find a couple secluded elevated lawns with chaise lounges perfect for a quiet afternoon with a book and Bellini.
Explore further, and there is a tiny trail up the hillside to the temple that was a popular display of prominence in elaborate Italian residences.
The town of Gardone Riviera
A quick car ride or a spirited 30-minute walk from the hotel is the small town of Gardone Riviera.
The esplanade and courtyard have many cafés, restaurants, and small upscale boutiques. From here, you can board a ferry that will take you to several different lakeside towns.
Further down the main road is the larger town of Salo. Salo is the largest town on the western shore of the lake.
There is plenty to see in Salo, the old town, the cathedral Santa Maria Annunziata, one of the most influential churches in Lake Garda, and the view of the southern end of town is postcard-perfect.
Lake Garda is an immensely popular destination with a varied story from end to end. From the popular sailing ports of the north, the ancient Roman Grotto in Sirmione to the south.
The easternmost lake of Italy’s lake district, Lake Garda, is a beautiful place to visit, and it would be easy to spend an entire vacation along its shores.
Sources & References
Blending a passion for exploration with a trained eye for detail, Cameron McIntyre has built a career as both a trusted travel advisor and an accomplished photographer. His travel experiences provide unique insights allowing him to curate journeys for clients across the globe. Cameron specializes in creating personalized travel experiences that go far beyond itineraries. Every trip is designed to reflect the traveler’s unique interests, whether that means discovering hidden cultural gems, indulging in luxury escapes, or embarking on immersive adventures off the beaten path.
