Hotel Review: Hotel Locanda del Benaco, Lake Garda

On the lakefront promenade of Salò, a smart yachtie town with a pretty historical centre lined with elegant boutiques and restaurants, the hotel is quiet and peaceful. It's perfectly located to explore the lake area, with public boats shuttling passengers from the nearby jetty to destinations around the lake.

By plane: direct flights from London to Verona take over 2 hours. The hotel is a 35-minute drive from the airport. Paid parking available nearby. Book flights to Verona.

Occupying two pretty peach and cream buildings on the lakefront, this family-run boutique hotel has sleek and stylish interiors exuding an industrial-chic vibe. Glass and concrete combine with oxidised brass, iron and black slate, while vibrant photographs and artworks made from recycled materials add colour throughout. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming.

Facilities are limited to an (outstanding) on-site restaurant, a wine tasting room and a third-floor terrace with lake views. The Briarava family are a delight (Gianni and his son Federico run the restaurant, while Gianni's wife Cristina takes care of the hotel) and the young team of staff will happily help organise activities in the area, from boat rental to water sports and visits to local wineries.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Terrace
• Free Wi-Fi

The 13 minimalist rooms are sleek and spacious, with a stripped-back design to create an industrial feel. Glass partition walls and mirrors create a sense of space, while metal-based tones reign supreme, with bright splashes of colour on the walls to balance the monochromatic palettes. The attractive bathrooms have spacious rain showers with floor-to-ceiling glass enclosures.

Room types: Standard, Deluxe, Junior Suite

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, hairdryer, desk, TV, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi

Chef Gianni Briarava is behind the excellent dishes served at the restaurant - seasonal dishes prepared using local ingredients sourced from small producers. Dishes include sauteed octopus and shrimp tartare to start, followed by roast seabass, grilled pork with garden greens and Fiorentina steak. Pasta is freshly made in-house and there's a well thought-out wine list.

Restaurant: Mediterranean cuisine, local ingredients. Open for lunch and dinner.

Caffe: continental buffet breakfast, served daily.