Lake Garda, 50 kilometers long, is not only the largest lake in Italy; it is also one of the most beautiful. Surrounded by steep hills and lush vegetation, the lake features a fjord-like formation with its southern part wider than its northern part. The lake area also enjoys a mild and comfortable Mediterranean climate.
Visiting the lake means exposing yourself to a spectacular lush environment filled with a variety of trees such as palm, cypress, orange and lemon trees. You will easily be captivated by the vibrant blue color of the clear water of the lake. The surroundings of Lake Garda offer plenty of opportunities for fun, relaxation and recreation.
The shore of the lake is occupied by several charming port cities. One of the most popular is Sirmione, which is located on a narrow piece of land that extends to the southern shore of the lake. The city is a must-see due to its many attractions, including the Grotte di Catullo and a 13th-century castle. Grotte di Catullo is not a grotto but a ruined Roman villa on the edge of the promontory. The other prominent towns around the lake include Bardolino, Lazise, and Garda. All of these towns are connected by ferry and have links to the lakeside path.
The lake shore is also a perfect place to ride a bike for pleasure. There are many easy bike itineraries that will allow you to fully explore the beauty of the Lake Garda region. Fortunately, bike rental service companies can be found along the lake shore. In addition, several hotels offer free use of bicycles to guests. If you like beaches, you can find beautiful stretches of sand on the south shore of the lake. If you head to the northern part, you will be greeted by rocky but very picturesque cliffs.
The clear water of Lake Garda is a perfect setting for a variety of water sports such as sailing and windsurfing. As you explore the lake, remember to take time to visit Isola del Garda, the beautiful island in the center of the lake. Although it is a private property, you can arrange a tour of the island and its exquisite villa, which features Neo-Gothic and Venetian architecture. In addition to these many attractions, there are also interesting hiking trails that highlight different views of Lake Garda.
You can find Lake Garda in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, where the Dolomite mountains dominate the horizon. The northern section of the lake was once occupied by Austria. There is a regional train service that stops at Desenzano and Peschiera del Garda stations, which are located south of the lake. The closest station to the northern part of the lake is in Rovereto. The closest airports to the region are Brescia and Verona. There are also buses that run between Milan and Venice and go around the lake. During the summer, ferry and catamaran services are offered for those who want to explore the lake.
