A late-nineteenth-century historic residence with a neoclassical soul, Villa Cortine Palace could easily have served as a film set for Luchino Visconti or Paolo Sorrentino — a perfect location for a classic of Italian cinema such as The Leopard or The Great Beauty.

Its 52 elegant rooms, the vast private park home to majestic century-old trees, the ancient statues rising amid fountains and cascades of roses, and the countless views over Lake Garda make Relais & Châteaux Villa Cortine Palace the very quintessence of Italian romance.

It is a place steeped in charm and elegance, standing at the highest point of the Sirmione peninsula — a spot also dear to the Roman poet Catullus. From this privileged vantage point, one can admire the ever-changing hues of Lake Garda and the breathtaking landscape that surrounds it.

As the sunset fades over the lake, soft lights come to life, and the distant melody of a piano drifts through the air.

It is within the enchantment of the Terrace that the concept of Le Gardenie comes to life: a cuisine rooted in Italian tradition at its highest expression, enriched with contemporary touches, authentic flavours, and an unwavering attention to detail, elegance and refinement. An exceptional wine list accompanies guests throughout this special experience.

Chef Mattia Bartoli, the interpreter behind Villa Cortine Palace’s gastronomic experiences, draws on a family culinary heritage marked by great attention to raw ingredients — often local — and to traditional techniques, from fresh pasta to the finest preparations of land, sea and lake.

Discover Villa Cortine Palace Relais & Châteaux – Le Gardenie Restaurant and all the Calvisius Ambassadors