Hotel Regina Palace

We have just returned, having spent a week in this lovely hotel with our two daughters. We had two lake view rooms with balconies, which were interconnected. The rooms were light and airy with good air conditioning, a very large comfortable bed (firm mattress), plenty of wardrobe space , decorated in traditional Belle Epoch style. Good sized bathroom with Spa bath, shower and toiletries supplied. Fresh towels and bedding changed daily. The gardens and outdoor pool area were ideal for relaxing with seating, loungers and a pool bar providing snacks and drinks. The staff were exceptional, very welcoming and ensuring every need was attended to. One of our daughters is gluten intolerant and they provided a gluten free menu for dinners and breakfast, this included snacks to take with her for the day. Breakfasts catered for most tastes and included fresh fruits, cereals, yogurts, bread/rolls, Preserves, pastries, cakes, meats, cheeses, bacon, sausages and eggs. We stayed half board and found the meals to be varied and included, soups, cold meats, pasta dishes, risotto, meat dishes, fish dishes and vegetarian options, with a good dessert trolley. We look forward to returning here in the future.

The Hotel is set on a beautiful property on the shores of Lago Maggiore, close to the center of Stresa. The terrace overlooks the lake while the hotel offers indoor and outdoor pools, a spa and a small gym. The staff at the bar and spa were most wonderful. Unfortunately this is where the good things end. We asked to leave a day early and the hotel refused, quoting their cancellation policy. In times of COVID, this sort of stance is simply unacceptable. I would have understood if we had cancelled the entire trip, but a modification of one day must be possible - especially if the booking was done via the hotel site. What was even more shocking than the flat out refusal was the attitude of the front desk staff - “this is our policy” end of story. No “I’m sorry but” or “we understand the inconvenience” - it was a take it or leave it we don’t care attitude which I do not expect to find in a 4 star hotel - especially in these difficult times. In addition, the state of the room left much to be desired. The wooden floors were cracked and an unused electric line hung above our balcony window. As beautiful as the hotel is, it’s rooms and the attitude of the staff should be updated.