Hilton has announced plans to add the first Italian property under its luxury LXR Hotels and Resorts brand.
The existing four-star Grand Hotel Gardone Lake Garda will joins Hilton’s luxury portfolio in 2026, following a multimillion Euro renovation project, which the group said would elevate the hotel’s interiors “while preserving the grand facade”.
It’s not clear if the property will remain open during the renovation works – Business Traveller has contacted Hilton for clarification, and will post any response here.
When completed the hotel will offer 160 rooms – the majority featuring lake views and private balconies – as well as outdoor swimming pools, two signature restaurants, two bars, a spa, fitness centre and “a majestic ballroom with an expansive terrace overlooking the lake”.
Hilton resurrected the LXR brand in 2018 – it had previously operated in the early 2000s when the Blackstone Group acquired Wyndham International, before the properties were reflagged as Hilton hotels in 2007 when Blackstone acquired the group.
Hilton describes the brand as “a hand-picked collection of independent and spirited luxury properties celebrating the timeless pursuit of personal adventure”.
Existing LXR hotels include The Biltmore Mayfair (see below for our review), and Susona Bodrum in Turkey.
Grand Hotel Gardone Lake Garda will operate under a franchise agreement between Hilton, Paval Holding and Apex Alliance.
Commenting on the news Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president, development, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Hilton said,
“LXR Hotels and 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.”
