LAKE GARDA
Lake Garda is a popular and lively holiday location set in a marvellous natural landscape with a great offer of sport, natural, cultural or leisure activities suitable for families, young people or relax-seekers. The lake and its shoreline are divided between the provinces of Verona, Brescia and Trento, in northern Italy.
It was formed by glaciers at the end of the last Ice Age and today it is the largest and cleanest of the Italian lakes, as well as one of the most stunning lakes in all Europe. It is surrounded by majestic Dolomites mountains to the north and by stunning green hills to the south. Here you will have the possibility to visit and discover numerous small towns and villages with medieval heritage.
Beautiful view at Peschiera del Garda ©Carlotta Rossi
Its mild climate has allowed the growth of a typically Mediterranean type of vegetation and the most important economic sources are the production of olive oil, cheese and the famous DOC wines, as well as tourism.
It's the perfect destination for travellers who want to discover something more about this area, enjoy fresh water beaches, water sports and inland activities.
The numerous hotels, holiday apartments, bed and breakfast and family campsites are equipped with every comfort, in order to meet any type of requirement.
HOW TO REACH LAKE GARDA
Thanks to its central position and good connections, Lake Garda can be easily reached from everywhere you are, in Italy or abroad.
For people who choose to make this holiday by car, Lake Garda is reachable from north via the motorway A22 Brennero - Modena, while for those who come from east/west, you can take the motorway A4 Milan - Venice and exit in Peschiera del Garda, Sirmione or Desenzano del Garda. It's important to know that in Italy you have to take a ticket once you enter the motorway and pay for it when you exit. The price is calculated according to the distance travelled.
The railway stations are Desenzano and Peschiera del Garda if you want to reach the southern part, while Rovereto if you prefer to visit the northern part.
The nearest airports to reach the east shore of lake Garda are Valerio Catullo in Villafranca di Verona, at about 15 km from the lake, and Orio al Serio in Bergamo, more distant but really important.
Once you reach any town on lake Garda, there is the opportunity to move from place to place by ferry boat or hydrofoil, for a panoramic tour or to spend an alternative day on the waters of Lake Garda.
Magnificent beaches at Garda lake ©Carlotta Rossi
BEST PLACES TO SEE: SIRMIONE
If you come to Lake Garda, you can't miss the chance to visit one of its most beautiful pearls: Sirmione, a very popular destinations on the south part of the lake, in the province of Brescia.
Start the tour visiting the breathtaking Scaligero Castle, a stunning building that looks as if it is floating above Lake Garda. From here you can enjoy an impressive view of Sirmione atop its fortress walls. Built in the 13th-century, this castle is really important and significant to the town.
Scaligero Castle at Sirmione ©Carlotta Rossi
Continue your visit and reach the tip of the Sirmione Peninsula where is possible to admire the ruins of an ancient Roman villa that have been standing since the 1st-century. This site, called Grotte di Catullo, is really interessant as it offers a unique look back into time but also a magnificent view on the whole lake.
Rest of an ancient Roman Villa at Sirmione ©Carlotta Rossi
Grotte di Catullo at Sirmione ©Carlotta Rossi
For travellers who are searching some fun in the sun, Jamaica beach with its turquoise waters is the perfect choice to continue this fantastic tour. Located right next to Grotte di Catullo, you can comfortably walk here after exploring the ruins. If you are active person and you want to try a more unique experience, discover Jamaica Beach by kayak and you won't be disappointed.
Jamaica Beach, a paradise for sunset lover ©Carlotta Rossi
In this wonderful medieval village rich in history there is also Aquaria, the Thermal SPA of Terme di Sirmione. An oasis of psycho-physical wellbeing immersed in a large park, where you can experience intense moments of pleasure while trying thermal water. If you want to relax and find beauty, balance and harmony, this may be the best choice to finish your day.
Aquaria Thermal SPA, an enchanting and relaxing place © @aquariathermalspa
WHERE TO EAT IN SIRMIONE
If you are looking to experience the local culture, this charming and elegant trattoria is perfect for you. Well-known for its handmade pasta, La Fiasca is a small restaurant that specializes in cooking traditional Italian cuisine.
Best italian pasta and wine at Lake Garda © @italianfoodandplaces
La Rucola 2.0 is another beautiful designed restaurant, right next to Rocca Scaliger; it has gained Michelin recognition thanks to its particular atmosphere and its strange but creative dishes. With a carefully curated menu that appeals to all palates, a vast list of wine options and cocktails, foodies will be really satisfied.
Particular but exquisite dishes at Sirmione © @larucola2.0
WHERE TO STAY IN SIRMIONE
If you are looking to treat yourself a bit, there are many stunning Villas that you can choose such as Villa Cortine, where you can live as part of the 19th-century elites during your stay.
Another good option is the Grand Hotel Terme. Located right in front of the lake, a few steps from the historic center of Sirmione, this 5-star hotel offers wellness services, swimming pools with thermal water and elegant rooms with a free minibar. It offers also free parking and free Wi-Fi.
BEST PLACES TO SEE: MANERBA DEL GARDA
Our trip will continue with a journey at Manerba del Garda, a beautiful town set in the heart of the Valtenesi, a green stunning area very famous for its wine production. According to the legend, Manerba was founded in devotion to the goddess Minerva, while other historians trace the name to the Gauls Cenomani, deriving from the union of mon, which means leader, and erb, a military zone, identifying Manerba as the residence of the chief of the tribe.
The first thing to do is, obviously, a good walk throught the Natural Reserve of Manerba del Garda that was established to preserve and promote its ecosystem and landscape, made of morainic hills, vineyards and olive groves. The natural park below the spur called “rocca” is of stunning beauty too and must be visited.
After a great walk you'll reach the top of Manerba and here the few rests of the Fortress of Manerba, one of the most important medieval fortress of the whole Lake Garda, rise on a high stony block. From here, you will enjoy a breath-taking view on the lake.
The few rests of the fortress of Manerba del Garda © @vito.fanizza
Magnificent view on the lake from the Rocca, Manerba ©Alice Vergombello
After this strenuous walk it's time to relax, so the next destination will be the beautiful Island of San Biagio, also known as the Island of Rabbits, surrounded by crystal clear water. Here you can’t miss the chance to relax on blissful beaches or, if you love it, you can also explore a colourful world beneath the lake by scuba diving or snorkeling.
Little Island of San Biagio surrounded by crystal clear water ©Michael Pezzaioli
This area of Garda offers different form of entertainment, such as fashionable night clubs, discos, festivals, cultural events, outdoor cinemas, markets and gastronomic evenings so you can choose how to continue this fantastic day according to what do you prefer.
In addition to this, during the summer months the exploration of little squares and the most picturesque corners of Manerba is made fun and easy by a small touristic train taking tourists around the lovely town centre. This is a fantastic way to discover Manerba and the price is only 2 euros per person.
WHERE TO EAT IN MANERBA DEL GARDA
The Grill Garten is a very nice restaurant in Manerba del Garda that offers expecially rustic dishes based on meat cooked exclusively on the grill, but it can also propose other dishes with no meat. The quality of the food is very high and beers are excellent, the location is quiet and there is also a playground for children. The service is really fast and the prices are affordable.
Delicious dinner in a rustic restaurant, Manerba del Garda ©Alice Vergombello
Nasimi Beach is a very beautiful, young and modern location above the beach of Manerba. The place is ideal to appreciate the beauty of the lake while sipping a good drink or eating something. Every Sunday you can also spend an exciting evening with DJ sets and aperitifs with a rich buffet included in the price.
Food and drink on the lakefront, Nasimi Beach © @nasimi_beach_manerba
The Minerva restaurant and pizzeria in Manerba Del Garda specializes in fish dishes and pizzas prepared with both traditional and alternative doughs. If you are a fish lover you must taste the specialty of the place, "Lo Scoglio", a very big dish of spaghetti with mussels and clams, but also the pizzas are very large and can satisfy everyone's palate. Various gluten-free pasta and pizzas are also available.
Exquisite italian pizza at Manerba del Garda © @ristorantepizzeriaminerva
WHERE TO STAY IN MANERBA DEL GARDA
Talking about camping holiday, the average quality is extremely good, since this is a highly renowned spot among Italian and foreign tourists who choose Lake Garda every year for their summer holidays in a tent, motor home or caravan.
If you don't like the idea of sleeping in a tent, The Antico Borgo B&B is the right choice. Located in the medieval village of Balbiana in Manerba del Garda, it's the perfect location for people who want to discover this enchanting area and understand something more about the local culture and traditions. It has 4 large air-conditioned rooms with bathroom, SPA for couple, magnificent terrace overlooking Lake Garda, solarium and whirlpool. The breakfast is served in a characteristic internal courtyard with centuries-old olive trees and a stunning veranda facing the valley and Lake Garda.
BEST PLACES TO SEE: GARDONE RIVIERA
Our tour continues with a daily visit to Gardone Riviera, one of the most beautiful and well-known Italian villages, located in the heart of a breathtaking landscape that had also enchanted Gabriele D'annunzio. In fact, here you can't miss to visit the famous residence of the poet that was built in Gardone in 1921: the Vittoriale, which made the town famous all over the world. It is not only a house, but a complex made of buildings, streets, squares, theaters, gardens, parks and rivers. It has become the most visited house-museum of Europe containing relics, souvenirs, keepsakes and reminders of the inimitable lifestyle of the great poet.
Il Vittoriale degli Italiani, the residence of a big italian poet. ©Alice Vergombello
The love this poet felt for the scenery of Lake Garda can be found in the rief verses he wrote during a flight over the lake: "All is blue, like a udden intoxication, like a head which leans back to receive a deep kiss. he lake is unspeakably beautiful".
Beautiful garden inside the house-museum ©Alice Vergombello
After being amazed by the beauty of the Vittoriale, a very long walk throught Giardino Botanico di Hruska is a must. You will pass among beautiful plants and rare flowers, surrounded by strange buildings and beautiful works of art. From the orderly Japanese gardens you will pass to the rocky area, crossing extraordinary paths, which reflect the most beautiful forms of nature. A garden within which you can admire many sculptures and works of art of all kinds, which make this place unique of its kind.
Enchanting botanic garden with rare flowers, plants and stunning works of art. © Alice Vergombello
The best way to end the day in style is a visit to the beautiful Villa Alba, baptized with the name of "Villa Ruhland", which means "Peace in the landscape". It’s a spectacular structure that recalls the most characteristic monuments of the Athenian acropolis. In the 1970s it was purchased by the Municipality of Gardone Riviera, which transformed this wonderful Villa into a place of art and culture: the perfect location for exhibitions, art reviews and cultural events of all kinds.
The magnificent setting of Villa Alba in Gardone Riviera © @villa.alba.gardone
WHERE TO EAT AND STAY IN GARDONE RIVIERA
If you’re considering a date night, Antico Brolo is the perfect place for you. The food is as elegant as the surroundings, serving tiny amuse-bouche and nouvelle plates of steamed fish and truffle pasta. The table on the small balcony is a real delight. Occupying an old 18th century residence, this restaurant offers also the possibility to stop overnight in several small rooms in which to enjoy these exquisite carefully prepared regional dishes.
Unmissable dishes that will satisfy everyone's palate © @osteriaconlocandaanticobrolo
Another perfect location where to eat very well and sleep in the same place is Locanda Agli Angeli, in the center of Gardone Riviera between the Botanical Garden and Il Vittoriale. Its restaurant offers homemade dishes and fish specialties, which can be enjoyed on the terrace, as well as a buffet breakfast with a vaste choice of food and drink. Parking is free. All rooms have a classic design with wooden furniture and floral bedding. They include a fan or air conditioning, a TV and a private bathroom.
Perfect location in Gardone where to sleep and eat exquisite dishes © @agliangeli
BEST PLACES TO SEE: TREMOSINE
At this point, all you have to do is start the climb towards Tremosine, along the Strada della Forra which, between tunnels and curves, reaches the natural terrace overlooking Lake Garda from the top. This town has become one of the most beautiful villages in Italy because of its structural and landscape features. Those who visit Tremosine for the first time will immediatey appreciate its charm, expecially thanks to Strada della Forra road, known worldwide for its extraordinary beauty and uniqueness, and the famous “Terrazza del Brivido”, a panoramic spot over the lake.
The Strada della Forra, a real jewel set in the rock. ©Michael Pezzaioli
Magnificent route at Tremosine in the heart of the mountain.©Michael Pezzaioli
Breath-taking view from the top of Tremosine, where you can also enjoy an exquisite meal
at Hotel Paradiso.© @terrazzadelbrivido
Limone is another must: this beautiful tourist resort is one of the most popular on Lake Garda, and here you will be full immersed in the atmosphere of a lively and well-preserved ancient village. Limone is famous for the cultivation of citrus fruits, especially lemons. Although there is a strong belief that its name derives from the tradition of growing lemons, it is thought instead that the origin of the name comes from the Latin "limen", meaning border, referring to the dividing line between the Brescia area and Trento, a border that still exists today.
Panoramic viewpoint at Limone sul Garda © @limone_sul_garda_e_dintorni
The daily tour begins with a visit to the church dedicated to San Benedetto, built on a pre-existing Romanesque church, then enlarged because too small for all the faithful of the area. The style refers to Austrian architecture and it seems to recall the country's past, when Limone wasn’t part of Italy, but was annexed to the Austrian Empire.
Old Baroque church wonderfully peaceful at Limone © @limone_sul_garda_e_dintorni
Another beautiful church that must be visited is the church of San Rocco. This sweet, small church is a lovely place to explore and here you can also admire the art and historic architecture, as well as some lovely frescoes. It has a rich history in the community, and continues to be an important part of Limone Sul Garda.
The Church is close to the old port, so our tour proceed in this direction.
The Old Port, the heart of the old town of Limone © @limone_sul_garda_e_dintorni
From here, get lost in the various alleys of the town. Admire its narrow streets, small squares, fountains, cafes, boutiques and shops that sell many products that have lemons as components.
Very interesting alleys in Limone full of typical local shops © @limone_sul_garda_e_dintorni
There are also pleasant and picturesque waterfront terraces, and lot of beautiful places where you can sit, relax, eat and drink something while admiring lake views. In the other direction there is the more modern part of Limone: a wide waterfront promenade, car park and many more hotel developments. Limone also offers the chance for sunbathing or swimming.
Peaceful beaches at Limone sul Garda © @limone_sul_garda_e_dintorni
If you want to discover something more about Limone's lemon-growing history, you absolutely have to tour an old lemon grove, the Limonaia del Castèl. The lemon house is an ancient structure, typical of the characteristic economy of this locality, now almost abandoned. From above you can admire a truly unique landscape.
Touristic tour at Limonaia del Castel © @limone_sul_garda_e_dintorni
To end the day in style, a nice and long walk along Limone’s pedestrian and cycle walkway is strongly recommended. It is a unique and extraordinary work, which allows you to travel, either by bicycle or on foot, a walkway overlooking the Lake Garda, while enjoying a breathtaking view suspended between the lake and the sky. This work recently opened to the public is part of the great project of the "GARDA BY BIKE", a big cycle path which one day will allow you to travel by bike the entire perimeter of the largest Italian lake.
Romantic walk along Limone's pedestrian and cycle walkway ©@limone_sul_garda_e_dintorni
WHERE TO EAT IN LIMONE SUL GARDA
If you are looking for a nice place where to eat very well, the Osteria da Lidio may be the best choice. It offers the flavors of the territory, with a well-diversified menu including appetizers, fresh pasta and delicious meat. Very pleasant context and friendly service. Excellent value for money considering the location of the place.
The perfect place where to eat pasta and meat in Limone © @osteriadalivio
WHERE TO STAY IN LIMONE SUL GARDA
If you choose a holiday in Limone sul Garda you will have the possibility to choose from many solutions for a comfortable or economical stay including hotels, resorts, bed & breakfasts or holiday homes. The hotels in Limone sul Garda are chosen by visitors above all for their comfort and the view they propose on the lake. Among the best, there is the Garni Gianmartin which is located just a few minutes from the lake shore, but is completely immersed in the Alta Garda Bresciano Park,a splendid green area.
OTHER THINGS TO DO AT GARDA LAKE
At Garda lake there are also interesting theme parks really great for families on holiday. In Peschiera, you can hop a free bus ride over to Gardaland, an amusement park which is full of activities and restaurants. From there, the Sea Life aquarium is only a short distance away.
Gardaland, the most beautiful theme park in Italy ©Carlotta Rossi
Don’t miss the chance to have fun and spend a day in the amusement park Canevaworld, which includes Caneva Aquapark, for people who prefer water slides and pools, or Movieland for movie lovers, just a few kilometers from Lazise.
Caneva Aquapark, a paradise for water lovers © @caneva_officialpage
Among the options available in the surroundings there is also the Parco Natura Viva, a beautiful zoo on Lake Garda, perfect if you want to spend a day with children in the midst of nature and animals. It hosts about 1500 animals in 250 different species. The visit to the park can be done walking through paths or there is also the Zoo Safari option, a visit to do by car.
Fantastic animals at Parco Natura Viva © @parconaturaviva
Enjoy your stay at Garda lake, you won't be disappointed!!!!!
What to see in Umbria?
Monuments, restaurants and local foods
How to enjoy Clermont-Ferrand
Clermont-Ferrnad, located in Auvergne a green and peaceful region, is the perfect place if you want to discover France in an unusual way.
Morocco by car
Morocco by car. The full itinerary of a car trip in Morocco.
Road trip: 15 days accross Europe
Go through 4 different countries and visit new places, cultures and ways of life in a 12 days road trip accross Europe.