Lake Garda, ItalyColombare
Hotel Ocelle Thermae & Spa
Yacht-inspired thermal spa
Yacht-inspired thermal spa
Styled after a private yacht moored on Lake Garda, the hotel puts curative thermal soaking right beside open water.
What it’s good at
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
the Ocelle embraces a modernist-inspired style that reinforces the restorative atmosphere promised by its spring-fed pools and its lavish spa.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Scaligero Castle and Sirmione's old town are a short walk north, where the peninsula narrows into the lake.
The rooms
Lakefront suites orient both the bed and freestanding tub to look straight across the water.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
A seasonal freshwater infinity pool borders the lawn, looking out past the pebble shore to Lake Garda.
The thermal baths
Fonte Boiola spring water warms the thermal pool to 34°C to 36°C. Slatted Finnish saunas sit just indoors.
The spa
Private cabins host custom body treatments, and the relaxation lounge is lit by a glowing Himalayan salt wall.
American Bar
Drinks and aperitivo are served at the counter and outside on the terrace overlooking the water.
At the table
RistOcelle serves lakefront lunches and dinners on the covered terrace, and guests can even arrive by boat.
How it began
The building was an abandoned concrete shell until 2018, when design studio Ermes Ponti opened the structure toward the lake.
Lake Garda
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.