From our Family to Yours
A Century of Lakefront Hospitality
History is not just about the past—it’s the living foundation of who we are today. Since 1925, four generations of the Arosio family have nurtured this villa, guiding it through changing times while preserving its unique spirit. Walk with us through the decades and discover the timeless passion for hospitality that still fills every corner of Hotel Gardenia al Lago.
1833
The Patriarch
Valeriano Arosio is born in Milan, then the heart of the Austrian-ruled Kingdom of Lombardy-Venetia. He grows up in a tumultuous historical era that will forge his enterprising character, laying the foundation for the family’s future path.
1857
Roots in Harmony
Valeriano Arosio establishes the piano factory in Lodi. The family legacy begins here: not in hospitality yet, but in the discipline of art, music, and meticulous craftsmanship that will one day define their way of hospitality.
1866
The Entrepreneur
Birth of Emilio Arosio. A man of vision, he will later modernize the family business and be the first Arosio to discover and fall in love with the shores of Lake Garda.
1895
The Aviator
Birth of Valeriano Arosio. The eldest of Emilio’s sons, he possessed a daring spirit that would eventually lead him to the skies. He served with distinction as a Lieutenant Pilot during the Great War, leaving a legacy of courage for the family.
1898
Growing the Family Tree
Birth of Antonio Arosio. He joins a generation that will soon face historical challenges. Like his brother Valeriano (the pilot), Antonio will serve his country with honor as an artillery Lieutenant during the Great War.
1903
The Artist Soul
Birth of Arnaldo Arosio. An artist and painter at heart, his creative sensibility will eventually transform the family home into a guesthouse with a unique, charming atmosphere.
1908
Visionary Spirit
Emilio demonstrates remarkable foresight, inaugurating the very first cinema hall in Lodi, featuring impressive 400 seats. A huge success that proves the family’s ability to anticipate times and embrace new forms of entertainment.
1914
Honor & Sacrifice
WWI tests the family. Emilio’s sons serve with distinction, including Valeriano as a Lieutenant Pilot. Their courage remains a proud chapter in the Arosio family archives.
1925
The Foundation
Emilio Arosio purchases the ancient estate “Il Fisco” as a beloved private summer retreat. He soon entrusts architect Gherardi to restore and embellish the villa with distinct Liberty-style decorations, defining the unique architectural character that guests still admire today.
1933
A Future Guide
Birth of Valeriano. Growing up within the villa walls, playing in the garden and at the lakefront, he absorbs the essence of this place—a connection that will later inspire him to lead the hotel into the modern era.
1940
Winds of Change
As World War II engulfs Europe, the villa transforms from a leisurely summer retreat into a vital safe haven. The family leaves Lodi to seek refuge in the quiet safety of their lakeside home, cementing their bond with Gargnano.
1957
Pensione Gardenia
Enchanted passersby, captivated by the location, begin knocking on the villa’s door asking to stay. Arnaldo and his wife Amelia decide to officially open their home to these first tourists, giving birth to “Pensione Gardenia”.
1965
Hotel Gardenia al Lago
Under the guidance of Valeriano and his wife Costantina, the structure expands. The iconic Belvedere becomes the dining room, and the humble pension officially evolves into the hotel.
1977
Expanding the Dream
The family acquires the nearby “Pensione Maria Pia”, lovingly restoring it into the intimate Hotel Du Lac, creating a second jewel on the water in Gargnano.
2000
A New Generation
Valeriano passes the torch to his sons Andrea, Giorgio, and Valerio. They begin leading the hotel into the new millennium with a respect for tradition.
2002
Restoring History
A major renovation modernized Hotel Gardenia al Lago while preserving the charm of Emilio’s original 1925 home. Over four winters, rooms were upgraded, bathrooms redone, and facilities improved—creating a timeless lakefront retreat for guests to enjoy.
2015
Preserving the Limonaia Tradition
The Arosio family brings a long-held dream to life. After years of historical and agricultural research, they restore the lemon house “Fondo Crocefisso”, honouring its heritage and opening it to guests for a unique experience.
2025
Sailing into History
To mark a century of family tradition, the Arosios acquire the
legendary sailing ship GALEOTTO II. Carefully restored, it now offers guests an exclusive voyage aboard a living piece of European history.
Be Part of Our History
The timeline of Hotel Gardenia al Lago isn’t finished—it’s written every day by the guests who walk through our doors. While we honour our past, our greatest joy is living in the present. We invite you to create your own memories and add to the enduring legacy of the Arosio family.
