Hilton today announced plans to open Italy’s first LXR Hotels & Resorts property, following a franchise agreement with Paval Holding and Apex Alliance.

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.

Grand Hotel Gardone Lake Garda is located on the western bank of Lake Garda in the town of Gardone in north-central Italy. A key landmark on the lakefront since 1884, the hotel has welcomed many cultural icons throughout its history.

When the renovation is completed, a majority of the hotel’s 160 high-ceilinged guestrooms will offer lake views which can be enjoyed from private balconies. Alongside the guestrooms, 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 some 8,880 square feet of meeting space, including a ballroom with an large terrace overlooking the lake.

“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 favored destination for sophisticated global travelers.”

“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.”

Grand Hotel Gardone Lake Garda will be located at Corso Giuseppe Zanardelli, 2/4, 25083 Gardone Riviera BS. Gardone and the nearby town of 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.

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.