The history of the most prestigious hotel on Lake Iseo
The reason for the name Araba Fenice (or Phoenix), or who inspired the symbol of this mysterious, mythological bird, is not known. We would hazard a guess that the choice is a reference to a historical connection with Venice, in the distant past of the noble Fenaroli family of Pilzone, who were loyal and fierce defenders of the Serenissima (Venice) in the 1300s. However, in official historical documents, the name of the Hotel 'La Fenice' appears in the period of the Italian Risorgimento, as the location of patriotic meetings in February 1848. A few blocks away, in fact, a plaque dictated by the historian Gabriele Rosa testifies that here was where the flag of the 'Lombard Revolution' first waved.
It enjoyed its heyday in the 1920s and 1930s, as a meeting place of the Brescia aristocracy, also hosting a lounge with casino gaming tables. There are rumours of a possible secret meeting taking place in the hotel lounge between the Duce Mussolini and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, towards the end of the Second World War.
Highly recommended
Unforgettable view from the balcony, great location, nice walk distance to Iseo city, 19th century building perfectly renovated, really comfortable bed. To sum up all was perfect with a small exception...breakfast...on one side everything was served but on the other the restaurant is a bit dark and murky and in comparison with the other part of the hotel it seems to be not refreshed
khaloo1010
TripAdvisor
A very helpfull staff and a lovely pool by lake iseo
13 ladies on a franciacorta trip, helpful staff is then a absolutt need. And a very helpfull staff is was! Thank you for this Arabia. Organizing our weekend so it was a sucess. The room was delightful fresh and with a view, just as ordered! really enjoyed this hotel with a skimmingpool by lake iseo
Helle Therese Olsen
TripAdvisor
Excellent spot
Marvelous area, beautiful lake, stylish and quality hotel just over the lake border. A great experience but certainly choose the rooms with a lake view. Take your breakfast just by the water and sip a glass of grapa breathing the lake silence. Go for it!