Where mountains, olive groves and dolce vita meet
Lake Garda is one of Italy's most diverse lakes, enchanting visitors with a unique blend of alpine scenery and Mediterranean flair. In the north, impressive cliffs rise steeply above the deep blue water – a paradise for hikers, cyclists, sailors and surfers. Further south, the landscape becomes gentler: olive groves, vineyards and charming towns with historic centres, lakeside promenades and small harbours invite you to explore.
Colourful alleyways, cosy cafés, ice-cream parlours and traditional trattorias capture the true spirit of Italian joie de vivre. Whether it's a sunset stroll, a boat trip to romantic spots, a visit to medieval castles or an excursion to Verona, Lake Garda offers countless possibilities for food lovers and active holidaymakers.
Thanks to its mild climate, the region is an ideal destination from spring through autumn. Anyone wishing to combine nature, culture and dolce vita will find the perfect holiday location on Lake Garda.
Things to do and see on Lake Garda and its surroundings
Limone sul Garda
Limone sul Garda is one of the oldest and best-preserved villages on Lake Garda. Its historic centre is perfect for a walk through narrow alleys, small squares and fishermen's houses right by the water. One of the main attractions is the suspended cycling and walking path, a scenic route of about 3 kilometres along the western shore, with breathtaking views. Don't miss the church of San Pietro in Oliveto, built in the 9th century: one of the oldest Romanesque churches in the area, with valuable frescoes. From Malcesine you can get there by ferry – Limone is directly across the lake.
Punta San Vigilio in Garda
Punta San Vigilio is considered one of the most romantic spots on Lake Garda. This small peninsula is mostly private, but visitors can still explore its timeless charm. Some of the most beautiful sites include Villa Guarienti, a historic residence, a small church, an ancient inn, a picturesque little harbour and a lush park – every corner looks like a postcard. Over the centuries the villa has hosted famous guests such as Maria Luisa of Austria, Winston Churchill, the then Prince Charles and even Napoleon.
Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona in Spiazzi
The Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona is a place of peace and meditation, suspended between sky and earth. It is set into the rocks of Monte Baldo in Spiazzi and has a unique atmosphere. It stands at 775 metres above sea level, beneath a steep rock wall: although it does not offer views of Lake Garda, the panorama over the Adige valley is stunning. The sanctuary can be reached on foot via a scenic trail or by shuttle bus.
Sirmione: the Scaliger Castle and the Grotte di Catullo
Sirmione is a charming town with breathtaking landscapes, flower-filled streets, medieval buildings and elegant restaurants, perfect for a walk through history and nature. The Scaliger Castle is a medieval fortress overlooking the lake: visitors enter via a drawbridge and can explore its towers and walls with incredible views. The Grotte di Catullo are the ruins of a Roman villa from the 1st century AD, the most important example of a Roman villa in northern Italy, with spectacular views of the lake.
Busatte–Tempesta scenic trail
The Busatte–Tempesta trail is one of the most spectacular hiking paths on Lake Garda: it winds along the rocky mountain cliffs with suspended stairways and breathtaking views. The trail starts in Nago-Torbole, in the Busatte area, and ends in Tempesta; it takes about an hour and a half each way and is perfect for nature and trekking lovers. Along the way you can admire stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Gardone Riviera and the Vittoriale degli Italiani
Gardone Riviera is an elegant town on the Brescia side of Lake Garda, with a mild climate and lush gardens full of plants and flowers. The Vittoriale degli Italiani, the grand residence of the poet Gabriele D'Annunzio, is the town's main attraction: a monumental complex with a house-museum, beautiful gardens, an amphitheatre overlooking the lake and even part of a warship. A fascinating place rich in history and culture.
Riva del Garda: the Bastione panoramic lift and the Ponale road
Riva del Garda is a lively town on the northern shore of the lake, with an interesting historic centre. From here a panoramic lift takes visitors up to the Bastione, an ancient Venetian fortress with breathtaking views over the town and the lake. Another must-see is the Ponale road, an old trail carved into the rock along the lake, which can be explored on foot or by bike with spectacular scenery of the water and mountains. From Malcesine you can also get there by boat.
Tremosine: the Forra road and the Terrazza del Brivido
Tremosine is a small village nestled in the mountains around Lake Garda. Its main attraction, in the hamlet of Pieve, is the Terrazza del Brivido ("Thrill Terrace"), a balcony suspended 350 metres above the lake with an incredible panoramic view. To reach Tremosine you travel along the Forra road, one of the most scenic routes in Italy: narrow, winding, carved into the rock and with breathtaking landscapes.
Verona
Verona is a city full of history and charm, famous for its Arena and the legend of Romeo and Juliet. The Arena, built by the Romans in the 1st century, once hosted gladiator battles and today is a prestigious open-air theatre for concerts and operas. Juliet's Balcony is one of the city's most romantic spots; Piazza delle Erbe, the oldest square in Verona, with its market stalls, historic buildings and outdoor cafés, is its beating heart. Nearby, the 84-metre Lamberti Tower offers a stunning view over the city from its panoramic terrace. From the hotel: 65 km.
