LXR poised for Italian debut with luxury conversion

Imagery © 2023 Hilton.
Hilton Worldwide will bring the LXR Hotels & Resorts line to Italy, following a franchise agreement with Paval Holding and Apex Alliance.

With a 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.

Panoramic property

The hotel is owned by the Lithuanian group Apex Alliance and Romanian Pavăl Holding and will be managed by Apex Alliance Hotel Management.

The property will be situated on the banks of northern Italy’s Lake Garda and will offer guests panoramic views of the picturesque lake and surrounding mountains.

Glamorous experience

Hilton intends that Grand Hotel Gardone Lake Garda, LXR Hotels & Resorts’ guests will enjoy a glamorous Italian lakefront experience, marked by bespoke, personalised service and authentic culinary and wellness offerings.

Upon the completion of the ambitious renovation, a majority of the hotel’s high-ceilinged guestrooms will offer lake views from private balconies. Alongside 160 keys, the hotel will offer two signature restaurants, two bars and a spa featuring indoor and outdoor pools and comprehensive fitness facilities. Additionally, the hotel will feature 825 sq m of meeting space, including a ballroom with an expansive terrace overlooking the lake.

Prestigious destinations

Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president, development, Europe, Middle East and 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.”

Feisal Jaffer, global head, LXR Hotels & Resorts, commented: “The LXR portfolio continues to grow in the most sought-out destinations. 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 travellers.”

Regional first

Karina Paval, vice president, Paval Holding, noted: “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. 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.”

Vytautas Drumelis, partner, Apex Alliance, added: “It’s an honour to partner with Hilton to develop Grand Hotel Gardone Lake Garda, LXR Hotels & Resorts. 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.”

Italian journey

Hilton currently has more than 40 trading and pipeline hotels in Italy.

Upcoming openings include another conversion project, Anglo American Hotel Florence Curio Collection by Hilton, delivering 115 keys to Florence in Q1 2024; and Hampton by Hilton Venice Tronchetto, a 324-room site heading to the floating city in Q3 2024.

RELATED ARTICLES