vic NY (Vic N.
Google
Don’t be misled by the hotel’s online photos of the lakefront. The main building actually sits across a busy road, separated from the lake. Only 4 rooms are directly on the lake, so if you pay extra for a “lake view,” expect traffic noise and a parking lot in your line of sight. Ironically, the hotel’s parking lot has one of the best views, directly overlooking the lake. Unfortunately, there is no inviting indoor common area with a lake view for guests to enjoy. The most beautiful restaurant, which could easily serve that role, is closed most of the day—an opportunity the hotel really should rethink.
This property does not live up to 5-star standards. The interiors are outdated, in need of renovation, and the carpet in my room was badly stained, which felt unacceptable at this level.
The gardens and the main restaurant—heavily showcased on the website—are indeed lovely. However, guests cannot order food or snacks while sitting by the lake (apparently due to a local regulation). The restaurant with the best views serves only dinner, not breakfast. Breakfast is served on the street level with no view. During the day, snacks are limited to the bar across the road, which is dark and dated. This fell far short of the relaxing holiday atmosphere I expected at lakeside. Wellness facilities were also disappointing: the sauna was out of order, the indoor pool is tiny and hidden away in the basement, and the outdoor pool was uncomfortably cold.
The one pleasant surprise was the complimentary shuttle to and from Morcote, a beautiful village where parking is very limited.
Breakfast was mediocre—more in line with a 4-star property. Fresh-squeezed orange juice and Parma ham were available, but only upon request. At this price point, those should be standard offerings for all guests.
Overall, given the high rates and the actual experience, this hotel does not deliver on its 5-star promise, and I cannot recommend it.