I’ve stayed at Grand Hotel Victoria twice in the last two years both with Hyatt points (even though the second stay was technically after the cutover to Hilton). It’s a beautiful property. The best part is the spa. It’s probably the best spa I’ve experienced in the world. Access is included for everyone and it has a big thalassotherapy pool with jets, bubble beds, waterfalls, “foot kneipe,” sauna, steam room, salt room, “moss room,” and ice room. The complimentary tea and nuts by the pool are really tasty when consumed in the live moss wall room!

My favorite part about Menaggio is the hike up to La Crochetta. It’s a little bit of a climb but well worth the views (see pic). Also up this way are some WWI trenches which were never used in battle, so you can enjoy them without feeling sad. I also really loved the hike through the Val Sanagra park and canyon, but unfortunately it was closed last summer due to heavy rains. I recommend this website for hiking ideas: https://menaggio.com/en/walks-around-menaggio/

However, while the views can be great, just be aware that the air quality in northern Italy can be very sub-optimal. In the pic I posted from April 2023 you can see the mountains, but last August 2024 you could barely see across the lake due to the smog. Italy’s a little behind Western Europe on emissions controls and the mountains can trap the pollution.