Hotel Piccola Vela

Desenzano combines a lakeside setting with a lively atmosphere. The centre's thriving with bars, cafés, pizzerias and an impressive pedestrianised shopping area. Mingle with the locals as you walk around the narrow streets, stopping to browse the unique items found in some of the family-run boutiques. Stroll a bit further and head uphill to the medieval castle that overlooks the town – you’ll get some of the best views of the lake from up here.

If you want to get some sun, we recommend heading to one of Desenzano’s three public beaches. There's sun loungers and parasols to rent as well as lake-view cafés where you can stop for a drink. The lakeside comes alive in the summer evenings with trendy bars welcoming tourists and locals.

One of the best things about Desenzano is how easy it is to get out and explore. The ferries leave regularly so popular towns like Garda, Peschiera and Sirmione are easy to get to. The town's station has regular trains to both Verona and Venice, which are perfect for day trips. But if you’ve already been or fancy escaping the crowds, we recommend heading to Padua. It’s a small, energetic city that doubles as a museum with the Basilica of St. Anthony’s extraordinary frescoes and a jumble of architecture from Gothic to Renaissance.

Free Excursion: Pre-book three excursions per person and receive a FREE full day excursion to Verona

Verona Opera (evening)

The Verona Opera is definitely one for the bucket list! The season runs from mid June to early September and covers all the classics including Aida by Verdi or Turnadot by Puccini. Whichever performance you choose; you’ll have an incredible evening. We’ve included transport to and from the arena so you won’t have to worry about a thing. You can find out more about the opera and see the 2021 programme here.

Price: from £64 per person (price based on un-numbered steps tickets, upgrades are available)

Departs: Various days from June to September (click here for the 2021 schedule)

Venice Classic (full day)

Spend a day in this rich and indulgent city; known for its spectacular Renaissance architecture, dramatic theatre history, cobbled streets and charming waterways. It’s not to be missed! Our Venice Classic excursion allows you to explore the city with a guide as well as at your own pace. You’ll arrive there by coach and a water taxi transfer is included into the historic centre. You’ll also have the option to add on a gondola ride (payable locally). There’s plenty of time to take in sights of the Basilica, Doge's Palace, St Mark's square and the Rialto bridge in your own time – this is the perfect introduction to one of Italy's most magical cities.

Price: from £70 per person

Departs: Tuesdays and Thursdays

Majestic Dolomites (full day)

We think the Dolomites are the most breath-taking part of the Alps and this excursion gives you the chance to embrace mountain life with one of our fantastic tour guides. It starts with a scenic drive through the exceptional South Tyrol, Val di Fiemme, Cavalese and Moena regions. You’ll then stop off at Passa Pordoi and take in the incredible views from this 2,000-metre-high vantage point. Then there’s some free time to explore the terrain at your own pace, either by taking one of the trekking paths or simply enjoying an Aperol at a refugio and taking in the views. A stop off at the chocolate box town of Ortisei is included on the way back to your hotel as well as plenty of stops for photo opportunities in this awe inspiring landscape.

Price: from £53 per person

Departs: Mondays

Tour of Lake Garda (half day)

Get ready to explore the best of Lake Garda on this excursion – there’s so much natural beauty and picturesque towns to discover. See the spectacular mountain scenery of the north and the sunny plains of the south. Travelling by both coach and ferry, the tour itinerary for this excursion varies depending on where you start but will usually follow the famous Gardensana road lined with fragrant olive and lemon trees to reach the likes of Malcesine, Sirmione, Salò and Limone.

Price: from £48 per person

Departs: Mondays and Fridays

Verona (full day)

Verona is one of Italy’s most charming little cities. This day trip dips into the romance of the medieval city, reliving the scenes from Romeo and Juliet while wandering around through the cobbled streets and past ancient buildings. The impressive 2,000-year-old Roman arena is one of the best preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world and is currently home to the Verona Opera, and the marble paved shopping street of Via Mazzini leads you to the stunning Piazza Delle Erbe. The handsome city mixes its rich past and modern present with great style.

Price: from £43 per person

Departs: Tuesdays and Fridays

Please note that the price of excursions will vary depending on the resort you are staying in. We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Pools

You have a choice of pools at Hotel Picola Vela. A pool with loungers sits amongst established gardens that provide welcome shade on a warm day. A heated pool can be found nestle in the quiet lemon gardens and a rooftop jacuzzi offers the ultimate in pampering while enjoying superb lake views.

General Facilities

• Small wellness area offering massages
• Free WiFi
• Reading room
• Free parking

• Restaurant
• Swimming pool (outdoor)

Breakfast is served from 7am to 11am and offers a large variety of fresh food including product grown in the hotel's own vegetable garden. 

The hotel's restaurant is open for dinner between 7pm and 9pm serving traditional Italian cuisine and international choices. Guests receive a 15% discount off hotels a la carte dinner menu.  A small menu is available for lunch with seasonal food. During summer, you can enjoy lunch on the terrace surrounded by gardens.

There's a bar, which is a relaxing space where you can enjoy a wine, cocktail or coffee after dinner.

Board basis options available

• Bed & Breakfast

This property caters for the following special dietary requirements

• Gluten Free
• Vegans
• Vegetarians