Villa e Palazzo Aminta – Italy

Surrounded by gardens overlooking Lake Maggiore, this opulent hotel in a lavish, art and antiques-rich belle epoque mansion is 11 minutes’ walk from the ferry for Isola Bella and 1.6 km from Stresa rail station. Ornate, fresco-lined rooms and suites have free Wi-Fi, balconies and marble bathrooms with Jacuzzis, plus flat-screen TVs and minibars. Suites – some split-level – add terraces and sitting areas/lounges. The Liz Taylor Suite has a wraparound terrace and Murano lamps. Room service is available 24/7.
Amenities include a private beach, 2 chic restaurants and a gold-flecked spa set in a cave. There’s also a pool, a gym and a grand piano.