A grand five-star belle-époque hotel on the lakefront promenade of Stresa, opened in 1861 and facing the Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore. The hotel features indoor and outdoor pools, an extensive spa, formal gardens, and historic associations with writer Ernest Hemingway.
Grand Hotel des Iles Borromées & Spa is a landmark five-star belle-époque hotel on the lakefront promenade of Stresa, facing the Borromean Islands across Lake Maggiore in the Piedmont province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola. Opened in 1861, it is one of Italy's most storied grand hotels, having hosted royalty, statesmen, and writers; Ernest Hemingway set scenes of A Farewell to Arms here and stayed in a suite that still bears his name. The architecture is opulent, with frescoed salons, gilded detailing, chandeliers, and formal gardens that recall the golden age of lakeside travel, while service maintains a classic, polished standard. Accommodation ranges from Classic rooms to Superior lake-view rooms, Deluxe rooms, and grand suites, many with balconies overlooking the lake and the islands; interiors are richly furnished in period style. The hotel's wellness offering is extensive, comprising an indoor pool, an outdoor pool set in the gardens, and a large spa with treatments, sauna, and a fitness centre. Dining is a highlight, with an elegant restaurant serving refined Italian and international cuisine, a more relaxed option, and a bar with lake views, complemented by a generous breakfast. The lakefront setting is ideal for boat excursions to Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Madre, all a short ferry ride away, while the cable car to Mottarone and the gardens of the region are within easy reach. With its blend of history, grandeur, full spa facilities, and a prime position on Lake Maggiore, the Grand Hotel des Iles Borromées remains one of the most prestigious places to stay in the Italian lakes.
Room types
- Classic Room
- Superior Lake View Room
- Deluxe Room
- Suite
Amenities
- indoor pool
- outdoor pool
- spa
- restaurant
- bar
- gardens
- fitness center
- wifi
- lake views
- concierge
Location
Corso Umberto I 67, 28838 Stresa VB, Italy
45.8853, 8.5316 View on map
Highlights
- Storied 1861 belle-époque grand hotel on the Stresa lakefront
- Direct views of the Borromean Islands across Lake Maggiore
- Indoor and outdoor pools plus an extensive spa and fitness centre
- Hemingway connection, with a suite named after the writer
- Steps from ferries to Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Madre
Tips for visiting
- Request a lake-view room or suite for views of the Borromean Islands
- Take a ferry from the Stresa pier to tour Isola Bella and Isola Madre
- Ride the Mottarone cable car for panoramas over the lake and Alps
- Allow time to explore the formal gardens and grand belle-époque salons
- Spring and autumn offer the gardens in bloom or colour with fewer crowds
When to visit
Late spring through early autumn is ideal for the gardens, outdoor pool, and island ferries; spring and autumn bring milder weather and fewer crowds along the Stresa lakefront.
Accessibility
The hotel offers step-free entry and lift access to guest floors, with adapted rooms available on request. As a historic property, some areas retain period features, so guests with mobility needs should confirm details directly with the property.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
What is the hotel's connection to Hemingway?
Ernest Hemingway stayed at the hotel and featured it in A Farewell to Arms; a suite named after him preserves the association.
Does the hotel have a spa and pools?
Yes. There is an indoor pool, an outdoor pool in the gardens, and an extensive spa with treatments, sauna, and a fitness centre.
How do I reach the Borromean Islands?
Ferries depart from the Stresa lakefront near the hotel, reaching Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Madre in a short ride.
When did the hotel open?
The Grand Hotel des Iles Borromées opened in 1861 and is one of Italy's most historic grand hotels on Lake Maggiore.