Hilton has unveiled plans to introduce Italy’s inaugural LXR Hotels & Resorts property, under a franchise agreement inked with Paval Holding and Apex Alliance. The Grand Hotel Gardone Lake Garda, part of LXR Hotels & Resorts, is scheduled to open in 2026 following a substantial multi-million Euro renovation project aimed at enhancing the hotel’s interiors while preserving its iconic façade. The property is jointly owned by Lithuanian group Apex Alliance and Romanian Pavăl Holding, with its management entrusted to Apex Alliance Hotel Management.
Patrick Fitzgibbon, Senior Vice President of Development for Europe, Middle East & Africa at Hilton, expressed his enthusiasm for this development, stating, “LXR Hotels & Resorts are found in prestigious global destinations from London to Kyoto, and Lake Garda will be a very welcome addition to the portfolio. With breathtaking natural surroundings, a temperate climate, rich history, and thriving local food scene, Grand Hotel Gardone Lake Garda is set to be an incredible new offering when it welcomes guests in 2026, and we’re proud to partner with Apex Alliance to bring this exciting luxury brand to Italy.”
Grand Hotel Gardone Lake Garda, LXR Hotels & Resorts, is poised to provide guests with an opulent Italian lakeside experience, marked by personalised service and authentic culinary and wellness offerings.
Feisal Jaffer, Global Head of LXR Hotels & Resorts, highlighted the brand’s expansion into sought-after destinations, with properties soon to debut in Bali, Abu Dhabi, and more. The addition of this luxury brand to Italy, a perennial favourite among sophisticated global travellers, is an exciting prospect.
Upon the completion of an ambitious renovation, a majority of the hotel’s high-ceilinged guest rooms will offer splendid lake views from private balconies. In addition to its 160 guest rooms, the hotel will feature two signature restaurants, two bars, and a world-class spa with indoor and outdoor pools, as well as comprehensive fitness facilities. The property will also offer 825 square meters of meeting space, including a grand ballroom with a spacious terrace overlooking the lake.
Karina Paval, Vice President of Paval Holding, expressed excitement about the hotel’s transition to Hilton’s curated collection of luxury properties, LXR Hotels & Resorts. She believes that the partnership aligns perfectly with their vision to reposition the landmark property as Lake Garda’s first five-star branded luxury destination, combining historic charm and scenic beauty with LXR’s exceptional service and luxurious amenities.
Vytautas Drumelis, Partner at Apex Alliance, also expressed his honour in partnering with Hilton to develop Grand Hotel Gardone Lake Garda, LXR Hotels & Resorts. The transformation of the Grand Hotel into a prestigious luxury LXR brand is set to make it the first internationally branded flagship hotel in the region. This new addition aims to address the growing demand, foster regional development, stimulate tourism, and attract future investments, providing guests with a luxury experience in one of Italy’s most beautiful settings.
The charming town of Gardone, nestled on the western shore of Lake Garda against a backdrop of scenic mountains, is characterised by its traditional red clay roof tiles and cultural significance. The Grand Hotel Gardone Lake Garda, a notable landmark since 1884, has hosted various cultural luminaries throughout its storied history. Gardone and nearby Salò offer cultural attractions, including local restaurants, bars, shops, and a ferry port for lake excursions. The hotel’s location is convenient, with Verona Airport and Milan Bergamo Airport both situated within an hour’s drive.
Grand Hotel Gardone Lake Garda’s address is Corso Giuseppe Zanardelli, 2/4, 25083 Gardone Riviera, BS. Italy continues to be a focal point for Hilton, with over 40 trading and pipeline hotels in the country. Recent additions to the Hilton portfolio in Italy include Hilton Rome EUR La Lama and Ambasciatori Hotel Venice Mestre, Tapestry Collection by Hilton.
