Hilton launches its LXR luxury brand in Italy with the picturesque Grand Hotel Gardone Lake Garda, opening in 2026
ROME and McLEAN, Va – Hilton (NYSE: HLT) has announced plans to open Italy’s first LXR Hotels & Resorts property, following a franchise agreement with Paval Holding and Apex Alliance. With a stunning lakeside location, Grand Hotel Gardone Lake Garda, LXR Hotels & Resorts is set to open in 2026 following a multimillion Euro renovation, elevating the hotel’s interiors while preserving the grand façade. The hotel is owned by the Lithuanian group Apex Alliance and Romanian Pavăl Holding and will be managed by Apex Alliance Hotel Management.
Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president, development, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Hilton said, “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.”
Guests at Grand Hotel Gardone Lake Garda, LXR Hotels & Resorts, will enjoy a glamorous Italian lakefront experience, marked by bespoke, personalised service and authentic culinary and wellness offerings. The property will be located on the banks of Northern Italy’s Lake Garda, famed for its crystal-clear waters, and will offer guests panoramic views of the picturesque lake and surrounding mountains.
“The LXR portfolio continues to grow in the most sought-out destinations,” said, Feisal Jaffer, global head, LXR Hotels & Resorts. “With upcoming properties in Bali, Abu Dhabi, and more, we’re thrilled to introduce the brand’s unique approach to hospitality in Italy, a perennially favoured destination for sophisticated global travelers.”
Upon the completion of an ambitious renovation, a majority of the hotel’s high-ceilinged guest rooms will offer resplendent lake views which can be enjoyed from private balconies. Alongside 160 guest rooms, the hotel will offer two signature restaurants, two bars and a world-class spa featuring indoor and outdoor pools and comprehensive fitness facilities. Additionally, the hotel will feature 825 square metres of meeting space, including a majestic ballroom with an expansive terrace overlooking the lake.
“We are excited for the next chapter in Grand Hotel Gardone’s celebrated history, as it becomes part of Hilton’s carefully curated collection of luxury properties – LXR Hotels & Resorts,” said Karina Paval, vice president, Paval Holding. “This partnership aligns perfectly with our vision to reposition the landmark property into Lake Garda’s first five-star branded luxury destination. We are confident that by blending the property’s historic charm and scenic location with LXR’s exceptional service, luxurious amenities and tailored experiences, we will create the perfect setting for guests to explore the wonders of Lake Garda.”
“It’s an honour to partner with Hilton to develop Grand Hotel Gardone Lake Garda, LXR Hotels & Resorts,” said Vytautas Drumelis, partner, Apex Alliance. “The reconstruction and conversion of the Grand Hotel into the prestigious luxury LXR brand will transform it into the first internationally branded flagship hotel in the region. The arrival of the branded property will address growing demand in the area, will contribute to the region’s development, stimulate tourism, and attract new future investments. The LXR brand hotel with renovated shoreline will offer guests luxury accommodation and premium experiences in one of Italy´s most beautiful settings, and we look forward to welcoming guests through the doors in 2026.”
The traditional town of Gardone, located on the western bank of Lake Garda, sits against a backdrop of scenic mountains. Red clay roof tiles adorn the buildings throughout the town, including Grand Hotel Gardone Lake Garda, which is one of the most prestigious addresses along the Gardone Riviera. The hotel has been a key landmark on the lakefront since 1884, welcoming many cultural icons throughout its history. Gardone and nearby Salò offer guests cultural attractions including a number of charming local restaurants, bars and shops, as well as a ferry port for guests to take boat rides across the lake. Verona Airport and Milan Bergamo airport are both situated within an hour´s drive from the hotel.
Grand Hotel Gardone Lake Garda will be located at Corso Giuseppe Zanardelli, 2/4, 25083 Gardone Riviera BS. Hilton currently has more than 40 trading and pipeline hotels in Italy. Recent openings include Hilton Rome EUR La Lama and Ambasciatori Hotel Venice Mestre, Tapestry Collection by Hilton.
