Hotel Piccola Vela

We stayed for 3 nights at the beginning of September and had a great time. We almost stayed in Sirmione as we did not know the area at all but so pleased we decided to stay here. The hotel staff could not have been more helpful and friendly. I booked direct and they confirmed immediately. I asked for an airport transfer and they sorted that too. A private people carrier, spotlessly clean waiting for us at the airport. Driver wore a mask the whole time and we felt very safe. The transfer was only 35 minutes from Verona airport but cost 80 euros (agreed when we booked) but in covid times was worth it. I am told that taxis are almost as much so possibly will hire a car next time as free parking at the hotel and the drive was quite easy. We were greeted by a very friendly man at reception. Our room wasn't ready as we arrived around 11.30am so we changed and made our way to the rooftop for a lie down on the sunbeds. No shade but plenty of space and a nice view. Wasn't long before our room was ready. Room 37 overlooking the olive garden at the rear. Beautiful room... Small, modern, clean and had everything we needed. Comfy beds and bedding and lots of amenities in the bathroom, even makeup remover which I have never seen before. Very handy as we had travelled hand luggage only so had limited liquids. The balcony and room were very quiet and we had 3 lovely nights sleep. During our stay we walked into the local town (5 minutes) for lunch and dinner. Lovely little town with plenty of choice of bars and restaurants. We were able to eat outside all the time. We also visited Sirmione on the ferry which you catch in the town and takes 20 minutes. Only 3 euros each way. Masks must be worn throughout the journey and temperature is taken before boarding. Very unstressful though. Sirmione is worth a visit but we were glad we went early as the ferry and Sirmione got much busier in the afternoon. Our afternoons were spent on the sunbeds around the 2 pools at the Hotel. There is plenty of space between them and a choice of sun or shade. It was very peaceful and relaxing and the lovely staff delivered drinks as needed. Breakfasts at the hotel were lovely. You can choose your table (we sat near the pool.) and order from the menu on the table. Within minutes your breakfast arrives and is very nice. A limited hot selection and plenty of pastries, rolls, eggs, fruit, yoghurt etc. We had more than enough and thoroughly enjoyed eating it in such a lovely setting and atmosphere. We were pleased that we decided to go to this hotel and this location in Italy. Very safe and covid alert with masks worn when walking through the hotel and sanitiser on every floor. In town people were very sensible. It was a perfect place for a relaxing 3 night break and we will definitely do it again. The only change I would like to see is a limit on smoking in the public areas. On one occasion I had to move as the couple next to me decided to have a cigarette and the smoke blew over me. Whilst I acknowledge that guests should all be allowed to enjoy their holiday how they like it, perhaps designated smoking and non smoking areas could provide the answer? Many thanks to all the staff for making our break so enjoyable.

Just returned from family break if 2 days at this hotel. The location is great with a lovely walk into desenzano city centre where there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. The rooms are good without being exceptional and toiletries are very good. Probably most disappointing was breakfast which was very average indeed for a 4 star hotel although the setting was lovely in the garden by the pool. The rooms we had by the pool on the ground floor were very dark and the manager did offer to change them the following day but we stayed put. If you have the budget splash out on their villa across the road. Spectacular views and stunning location on the lake but considerably more expensive. Staff are lovely and most welcoming. All in all the piccolo vela does deliver with the exception of the few things mentioned.