This hotel has comfortable rooms with outstanding views over the lake. Ours had a terrace that was plenty large enough for two sun-loungers and we spent a good deal of time on it. Most places on Como have fantastic and inspiring views but the Royal is truly uplifting whilst still being reasonably close to the lake which is quite hard to find.

The owner, Mario also runs a good restaurant where half board meals are good value and he couldn't have been more friendly and helpful. Due to the location this hotel provides peace and quiet. There are sizeable grounds and there is a pool that is large enough to swim in.

As long as you are fit enough this is an ideal location to visit Menaggio, Varenna and Belaggio. It is about a mile to Menaggio old town, almost all of which is along cobbled footpaths and downhill. Obviously if you are out of condition you may not fancy the walk back up. From the old town its less than half a mile to the ferry terminal. But if getting the ferry in the evening check the return times as strangely, there are no late ferries back to Managgio from Varenna.

There are many footpaths and cobbled streets in the vicinity of the Royal and nice walks with a couple of pizzerias/bars nearby, all of which involve hills in one direction or another. We'd definitely recommend for anyone who enjoys a walk.