Live a bit of la dolce vita among the olive groves
vineyards and tree-lined promenades of one of Italy’s greatest lakes
In a country like Italy, spoilt rotten with fantastic tourist destinations and beautiful sites, a place has to be exceptional to stand out. From the historic cities of Rome and Florence to the breathtaking landscapes of the Dolomites and the Amalfi Coast
destinations have a hard battle in the Italian tourism arena
sitting pretty in the north of the country
and magnificent landscapes – and Lake Garda is arguably the most delightful of the lot
covered with verdant forests and hillside greenery
climb up from the waters while a slew of pastel-hued towns are scattered throughout
walking and water sports are all ways to fill the day
or you can simply live a bit of la dolce vita among the olive groves
picking out where to go and what to do may seem tricky
but we’ve rounded up a list of the best things to fill your holiday on Lake Garda
Read more: The best events in Rome in 2025, from art to archaeology
Lake Garda has a handful of larger towns that are ‘must-see’ destinations along its shores
Riva del Garda and Desenzano del Garda are two of the largest
both filled with russet-roofed Venetian and Baroque buildings
in the form of the Desenzano’s well-preserved Roman villa and Riva’s 13th-century Apponale clock tower
The Isola del Garda is the largest island on the lake
and despite being owned by the Cavazza family
this verdant landscape is covered in forest
with one side dominated by the Villa Borghese Cavazza
a neo-Gothic Venetian villa that offers guided tours of its interior and grounds filled with tropical plants
Tours last up to two hours and cost around €39 (£32.50)
including a return ferry trip from towns including Salo
Read more: This peaceful Italian mountain town is just one hour from Venice – but completely crowd-free
Monte Baldo is the name of the mountain ridge that towers over the northeastern shores of the lake
It contains five particularly high peaks – the tallest of which is Cima Valdritta at 2,218m – and is a haven for hikers and mountain bikers
For the best views catch the cable car from Malcesine
where you can get a panoramic view of the azure waters
a series of hiking trails and biking routes descend the hills back to the shores
If you have the time when visiting Lake Garda
it pays to see some of the smaller towns and villages
Places like Malcesine are well-known despite having small populations
and shorefront locations are dotted with red roofs
Malcesine has easy access to Monte Baldo and the magnificent ruins of the Scaliger castle
located at the foot of a mountain and covered in the pastel colours that have made the region’s towns so famous – it is also more authentic and less affected by tourism
with one of the primary attractions being a centuries-old lemon grove turned museum
Sirmione is one of the Lake’s most visited towns
beautiful Old Town and the Grotte di Catullo Roman villa
and plenty of relaxed locals taking an evening passeggiata along the promenade and through the piazzas
Read more: How to make the most of your trip to Italy’s Amalfi Coast
The lake lends itself to several water sports
stand-up paddle boarding and canoeing are popular in several destinations
which goes the opposite way in the afternoon – provide great conditions for windsurfing
while the area around Garda Trentino is safe as motor boats are forbidden
Riva and Gargnano are good for diving – the latter has a boat wreck at around 40 metres – while almost all of the major towns have sailing clubs to choose from
Read more: Inside the advanced detox retreat all about indulgence and restriction
The Strada della Forra is a road that was initially conceived in 1889 in order to make the journey between the lake and Pieve di Tremosine sul Garda viable
It cuts through a ravine and winds along rocky cliffs
with several tight spots and hair-raising bends to navigate for those who take it on
eventually rising to around 360 metres from the waters
There is a pedestrian path that runs along the route – before the road
people could only reach Pieve on foot – but cycling
motorbiking and driving are still the best ways to see this magnificent route
The Cascata del Varone is a somewhat unique waterfall
in that its falls flow through a limestone tunnel rather than off the face of a cliff
A series of walkways guide you through the gorge to see the cascade
with colourful lights lighting up the inside and a botanical garden growing on the cliffs outside
Italy’s culinary prowess is unmatched in Europe
with regional specialities from pizza in Naples to Roman carbonara
a traditional pasta dish made with olive oil
sultanas and sardines caught fresh from the lake
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Lake Garda is scattered with spiaggia’s for tan top-ups and refreshing paddles in a palette of blues
one of the biggest and best equipped in Garda
green areas and volleyball and canoe rentals on its shingle shore
For a memorable Aperol aperitif – spritz style
of course – beach bars and cafes line the lake
With everything from wine bar watering holes to craft beer pubs
get seated at sunset for a sundowner on the lake’s shore
Read more: The best hotels in Sicily for luxury retreats, beach stays and hiking holidays
Lake Garda is one of Italy’s three famous lakes
A weekend at Lake Garda is more than just a holiday
it's an experience that regenerates mind and body
Here's what to see between nature and history
the top ones to try).Making this lake even more precious are its five small islands
can also be reached on foot during dry periods
Here is a three-day itinerary to enjoy a weekend on Lake Garda
The first thing to do as soon as you arrive at Lake Garda is to savor its unique atmosphere and simply let yourself be enchanted by its beauty
The thousand colors of the small villages bring joy even on gray days
and even a simple walk becomes an opportunity to discover jewels of art and architecture
Those who want an active vacation have everything they could wish for
including biking and trekking routes and the many water sports to practice in spring and summer
not to mention the majestic mountains that create a scenario of authentic beauty and also offer the opportunity for slightly more challenging activities
To discover all this, let's begin our special weekend at Lake Garda, choosing as a starting point a quiet and charming village on the south-east side, San Felice del Benaco. Easily reachable from Brescia, it is in a strategic position to visit some of the most famous places and is also ideal for spending the night in one of the jewels in the crown of Lake Garda hospitality: Lamasu W&R
with wonderful views and a thousand comforts
a stay in this modern and welcoming residence is the finishing touch to make your holiday perfect
There are many experiences to be had thanks to the organization and experience of the staff
to then end the day surrounded by the endless comforts of the lofts
between the beauty of a refined and functional design
and the well-being guaranteed by organic materials
The south-eastern side of Lake Garda is well connected to Brescia but also to Milan
so you can arrive on Friday morning and spend the first hours of the weekend getting to know this little corner of paradise between the gulfs of Salò and Manerba
In the historic center of San Felice del Benaco you can see the fascinating ruins of the medieval castle tower
while the small port offers characteristic views of great beauty
The visit continues a short distance from the center
where the Santuario del Carmine is located
Let's now enjoy a lunch break in one of the typical restaurants
We can also treat ourselves to a relaxing walk along the beach
with the olive groves that reach almost to the water to create a truly enchanting setting
The beach of Baia del Vento is among the most beautiful in this area and also offers a beautiful view of Isola del Garda
about ten minutes away from the center is the wonderful Botanical Garden of the André Heller Foundation
with three thousand different species of plants and works by famous artists
The lakeside of Salò is a true wonder in its own right
with its romantic sunsets and restaurants or cafes that light up the night
it is ideal for ending the day in perfect relaxation
We can dedicate the second day of our weekend at Lake Garda to an easy trip to the Garda Island
Reachable in just fifteen minutes by ferry from San Felice del Benaco
this small island is home to a wonderful noble residence in Venetian neo-Gothic style
It is a private residence but accessible via guided tours lasting two and a half hours
remember that the island can only be visited from April to October
An alternative way to spend the morning is a visit to the cellars and oil mills in the area
Lake Garda is also famous for the quality of its oil and its native wines
You can therefore book picnics among the vineyards
to get to know this beautiful and prestigious food and wine tradition up close
about twenty or thirty minutes away by car
A coffee sitting at the tables of the picturesque old port is a must
as is a stroll through the shops of the lively Piazza Malvezzi
Desenzano del Garda is a lively and fashionable town
but it is also home to an important archaeological site where the remains of a Roman villa from the 4th century are located
before saying goodbye to this lovely village
there is a walk to the promontory of the castle
where you can stop and rest to enjoy a truly spectacular view of the lake
For dinner, then, we can decide whether to stay or return to the base, but in any case we will taste one of the many specialties to enjoy. The cuisine of this area is the Lombard one, with risotto and polenta
but there are also typical dishes of Garda
Let's begin the last day of our weekend at Lake Garda in total relaxation
perhaps with a rich breakfast overlooking the lake
will be dedicated to one of the most popular locations in this region: Sirmione
In high season this small town can become quite crowded
We therefore begin by heading straight to the main attraction of the area
located right at the entrance to the historic center
It is one of the best preserved medieval fortresses in Italy
entirely visitable and with unforgettable views of the lake and the village from the top of its towers
Its dock surrounded by crenellated walls is very famous and always photographed
We can then dedicate some time to visit the pretty historic center
bars and cafes where you can stop and eat something good
The afternoon is spent at the Grotte di Catullo
This important Roman archaeological site is located in a truly spectacular position
on the most extreme tip of the Sirmione peninsula and houses the remains of a rich villa from the 1st century AD
For this visit it is better to wear comfortable shoes
also because in the immediate vicinity of this site is the wonderful Giamaica Beach
made of smooth white rocks and surrounded by vegetation
It can only be reached on foot along a path that crosses the olive groves
Our weekend at Lake Garda is unfortunately over
but there are still many treasures to discover
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paratroopers had a liquid drop zone this week
with Lake Garda serving as the latest scene of water airborne operations training for members of the 173rd Airborne Brigade
The jump on Thursday involved more than 400 soldiers
with 200 of them conducting helocast jumps — descending from helicopters into the water without a parachute — while 226 parachuted from planes
The lake event followed a “wet silk” training last month in the swimming pool at Caserma Ederle
where soldiers rehearsed how to remove themselves from parachutes that had trapped their faces underwater
“Falling into water can be really jarring if you don’t have the training,” said brigade spokeswoman Capt
Waterborne training is critical for deployment in environments where traditional drop zones are unavailable
Dozens of family members and friends observed the training Thursday from the lakeshore under sunny springtime skies
While the event was thrilling for spectators and fun for paratroopers
“The ability to execute water jumps and helocast operations ..
here’s our pick of the best hotels in Lake Garda
Alternatively, browse our edit of the best hotels in Lake Como to plan the perfect trip to the Italian lakes
How we choose the best hotels in Lake Garda
They're set in a wing of the prestigious Officers' Pavilion
which was built in 1856 in neoclassical style
It’s one of Peschiera del Garda’s iconic landmarks
and sleeping here is like stepping back in time to when the Austro-Hungarian empire ruled over northern Italy
The ‘Pavillon’ is where colonial Habsburg officers and their families resided
All suites come with a panoramic balcony overlooking the lake and the property's internal garden
The imposing brick and stone structure has been recently restored and made over
all while maintaining original architectural elements: vaults
Located in the heart of Peschiera del Garda
this refined building offers breathtaking lake-front terrace views
Art Nouveau pieces scattered between the lobby and the rooms
and a modern café restaurant that serves traditional local cuisine with experimental twists
Price: From about €400 per nightAddress: Piazzale della Serenissima 5
Price: From about €250 per nightAddress: Via Mantova 13
The most recent new addition is Villa Remo
which has 12 suites of up to 47 square-meters spread on 4 floors
The great thing about Villa Remo is the sunlight that streams into the rooms throughout the entire day
with parquet flooring and floor-to-ceiling sliding windows
It has an impressive 29 square-meter private terrace where you can enjoy a refreshing glass of wine as aperitif just before dinner
An infinity ‘sky pool’ overlooking the pristine hills and lake
The family-run terrace restaurant prepares traditional homemade delicacies and specialises in fish
For guests exploring Lake Garda on taxi boats or dinghies
and surrounded by olive groves and fruit orchards
with monk cells transforming into elegant suites with original frescoed walls and vaulted ceilings
you can take supper on the terrace with views of the lake
soak up the sun by the infinity pool or explore the wider area via an arranged excursion – the hotel has its own seven-seater Riva Aquarama Special motorboat available for private use
Address: Via Navelli, 2, 25087 Salò BS, Italy
history – it was once home to Mussolini and his family – which can still be seen from the preserved frescoes
stone columns and an elegant courtyard garden
Each of the 20 rooms is uniquely decorated with antique furniture and ornate objects
while the restaurant offers the option to take supper in the private dining rooms or outside on the pergola
The lakeside views are framed by olive groves
creating an ideal opportunity for an unplugged stay
in a sleepy town on the outskirts of Gargnano
offers plenty of peace and silence while still being close to Lake Garda's top highlights
Address: Via Rimembranza, 38, 25084 Gargnano BS, Italy
As a former 1500s inn where pilgrims and travellers rested overnight
the place is packed with history – previous guests include Napoleon and Winston Churchill
Thanks to its enviable location on Punta San Vigilio
all rooms have stunning panoramic views and balconies suspended above the gentle waves
The dining room features a spectacular loggia with lovely lake vistas
Address: Punta S. Vigilio, 37016 Garda VR, Italy
close to the healing thermal baths loved by the Ancient Romans
Aqva is postcard-pretty with minimalist blue glass and white stone architecture reflecting in the water
This unique lakefront location is a prized spot for just a handful of guests – there are only 18 rooms within the adults-only hotel
all crisp with modern and minimalist decor
The sleek details spill into the communal areas with travertine floors and artworks displayed in the corridors
There's direct water access from the hotel’s hotel’s pier
making it ideal for a guided boat tour or a reinvigorating morning swim
Address: Via XXV Aprile, 4, 25019 Sirmione BS, Italy
housed in a former lavish hunting lodge initially built in the 1800s for the Austrian imperial family
the location is a standout – right on the lake and surrounded by a botanical park
There’s even a tiny private beach lined with cabanas and sun beds
Suites have a neoclassical style reminiscent of the glamour of bygone imperial days
The hotel has three restaurants serving Mediterranean and Italian dishes – don’t miss the tasting menus at Il Pascatore for a standout supper
including dishes like risotto with duck ragout and hazelnut butter ice cream for pudding
Address: Corso Giuseppe Zanardelli, 190, 25083 Gardone Riviera BS, Italy
this architectural bolthole is designed to mirror the surrounding vineyards
There are no brick walls across the six eco-friendly suites
floor-to-ceiling glass windows flood the spacious suites with natural light
organic fabrics and cube-like four posters create a warm ambience
which enjoys the morning sun and has direct access to the vineyard via the garden
The hotel is committed to a green philosophy
with much of the power generated from geothermal energy and solar panels
while the onsite pizza restaurant serves exclusively locally sourced ingredients and regional wines
Address: Via Gobbi Epifanio, 30, 38062 Arco TN, Italy
is inspired by the traditional tiered lemon houses of Lake Garda
with stone pillars supported by wooden beams
Suites make the most of the views overlooking Lake Garda via floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows
while interiors are a serene mix of natural fabrics
The isolated spot lends itself to creating a wellness haven – choose from an array of health programmes in the spa designed to help with stress
The restaurants here are equally health focussed
focusing on natural local ingredients and Mediterranean cuisine
Address: Via Angelo Feltrinelli, 136, 25084 Gargnano BS, Italy
Built in the 1600s as a private residence for aristocratic families
the villa later became a hotspot for European royalty who flocked here to holiday
from works of art on the walls to shining Murano chandeliers and frescoes on the ceilings
as well as a grand staircase and a mosaic-decorated park full of ancient statues
The outside grounds are equally pleasing to the eye
from the manicured gardens to the lemon-yellow poolside lounges and umbrellas
The hotel is also home to two elegant restaurants
a cosy bar with a garden terrace and a cracking wine cellar with over 600 labels
Address: Località Cordevigo, 1, 37010 Cavaion veronese VR, Italy
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Italy
the beautiful Lake Garda is no short of a tourist magnet (over 23m people visit every year)
In fact it’s enjoyed the tourist flock since its classical era
when wealthy Romans came to enjoy the salubrious thermal waters that bubble up along its edge.
Stretching over 32 miles in length from the foot of the snowy Alps to the sun-drenched Padana flatlands
you’d be a fool to only hit the tourist traps along the way
eat and see in Lake Garda away from the crowds – you just need some local tips
here’s our essential local’s guide to Lake Garda.
Photograph: Booking.comLa Locanda del Benaco
Behind La Locanda del Benaco’s ornate Art Deco facade is a boutique hotel with a surprising minimalist interior
following a grey and black palette with occasional pops of colour
situated along the seaside promenade of Salò on the western shore
The hotel restaurant offers a refined seasonal menu of lake fish and local vegetables.
For a hotel steeped in history, try Locanda San Vigilio
sitting right on the waterfront at Punta San Vigilio
The hotel is housed in a sixteenth-century stone building shaded by cypress
Rooms feature carved wooden furniture and sixteenth-century prints
and some come furnished with opulent four poster beds
Wander the grounds and you’ll find a swimming pool fringed by olive trees and a historic chapel
you can arrive in style at the private dock on the lake or the hotel's helipad.
Sometimes, the lakefront can get a little busy. For an oasis of peace, take the dirt track up from the town of Bardolino to Prati Palai
a hotel located in a sixteenth-century farmhouse surrounded by olive groves
It strikes a pleasing balance between rustic and elegant with pastel-hued beamed ceilings
reclaimed wooden floors and statement furniture made by local artisans
The place is surrounded by 45 acres of meadows and woodland
have a picnic or play tennis at nearby courts.
The settlement of Sirmione commands a slender peninsula that juts out into the lower part of the lake
Visitors enter a flower-bedecked town through the imposing Scaligero Castle
it is a rare example of mediaeval port fortification
where defensive walls surround a small harbour (it’s not sinking)
The nearby Grotto of Catullus houses the remains of a vast private Roman villa where metal pipes brought the health-giving hot water to a bathhouse.
The town of Limone sul Garda on the west shore of the lake encapsulates summer for me
Pale yellow and ochre villas line the peaceful waterside promenade
The bougainvillaea-adorned centre is gaudy with souvenir shops but head up the cliffside for quiet streets leading to an unexpected explosion of lemon groves
The fruit thrives so far north because of the temperate microclimate
and the small museum Limonaia del Castèl recounts how Limone’s lemons were once shipped as far as Germany.
The sublime beauty of Garda’s sweep of blue water hugged between craggy cliffs is best appreciated from Monte Baldo
accessible by cable car from the pretty town of Malcesine
There are various hiking routes including a gentle loop through wildflower-filled meadows
a path through flora and fauna-rich woods or an adventurous trek along cliffside crests
Dotted around are rifugi (mountain huts) and malghe (farmsteads) which offer rustic food and simple accommodation in big stone lodges
Osteria da Livio
on the olive grove-covered hillside above Limone sul Garda
whisks diners back to the 1950s as soon as they step in the door
Varnished wooden panels and dusty bottles line the walls and trattoria-style wooden chairs with straw seats sit around tables made from barrels
There’s also a vine-shaded garden perfect for lingering after a dinner of handmade ravioli stuffed with local Tremosine cheese and grilled meat.
Epicureans should head to Gardone Riviera for Lido 84
a Michelin-starred spot that ranked 12th in the world this year according to The List’s 50 best restaurants
It’s known as a destination restaurant both for its lake views and its pasta dishes
Chef Riccardo Caminini (his brother Giancarlo acts as host) prepares contemporary creations with hyperlocal ingredients like the notorious rigatoni cacio e pepe en vessie
where the pasta is cooked in a pig’s bladder
Venture up the hillside on the western shore to Puegnago del Garda, with its imposing medieval castle, for Casa Leali
offer six-course tasting menus of inventive combinations that exalt local ingredients
and spaghetti with lake sardines and cod bottarga
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ShareSaveCommentLifestyleSpiritsGarda DOC Wines Carve An Identity Along An Italian Great LakeByTom Mullen
Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights
travel and lifestyle from a base in FranceFollow AuthorJun 16
04:04am EDTShareSaveCommentVineyards along Lake Garda in northern Italy
like the five Great Lakes of the United States
were similarly carved out by a unifying set of glacial events
From west to east these Italian Great Lakes are named Maggiore
The easternmost—GardaAlong An Italian Great Lak—is Italy’s largest lake and renowned for lake sports
The region surrounding Lake Garda is climatically odd; although located at the foot of the chilly Alps
much of it is replete with Mediterranean vegetation including olive and lemon trees
Lake waters mitigate extremes of summer and winter temperatures
and the surrounding land is constantly raked by mountain and valley winds
Steep peaks poke down into deep glacial lakes where sailboats are ample
vacation homes plenty and visitors flock to sunny lakeside locales for magnificent vistas
Regarding the wine industry around Lake Garda (within the Garda Denominazione di Origine Controllata [DOC] wine appellation)
two key questions that now face producers are—which type of wines are optimal to produce
and which wine identity resonates best with consumers
Enjoying wine in the evening along Lake Garda
lands to the east are part of Italy’s Veneto region
while lands to the south and west fall within the Lombardy region
These territories of Da Vinci and Dante Alighieri have also produced wines for Celts
The Garda DOC appellation encompasses 10 historically prominently wine designations—including Lugana
the appellation is now guided by the Garda DOC consortium (consorzio) founded in 2016
This consortium includes 250 members that produce wines from almost 77,000 acres [31,100 hectares] of vineyards
or an aggregate area similar in size to the city of Orlando
or somewhat larger than the Italian city of Genoa
The consortium now seeks a coherent identity to message a unique character for its varied wines and for tightening its branding strategies
Eight main grape varieties dominate Garda DOC wines
Trebbiano (two types—di Soave and di Lugana)
Other local grapes include Erbamat (white) and Groppello (red)
Although Garda DOC includes a hefty quantity of international grape varieties such as Chardonnay and Merlot
the highest percentage variety grown (43% in 2023) is the white Garganega
Most wines in the appellation (80%) are entry level
whereas premium and super-premium wines priced at six Euros a bottle and upward constitute 7.9% of sales
About half of all wine sales are international (including to Germany
Within the Garda DOC patterns of wine production dramatically shifted during the past seven years
The number of grape producers increased by 20% while the number of grapes produced increased by 46%
More wine is also now being bottled within the appellation—having increased by 246% in the last six years to a total of 18.6 million bottles annually
This sudden burgeoning output was associated with eye-opening shifts in types of wine produced
sparkling wines decreased by half—from 34% to about 13.5% of production
while reds are less than a quarter of what they were
production of white wines has more than doubled
questions loom regarding which direction wine production and marketing should aim for
the Garda DOC consortium engaged universities from Verona
Milan and Padua to study market patterns—including strengths
Paolo Firini is President of the Garda DOC Consortium
enthusiastic and affable man who recently spoke at the shoreline town of Lazise along Lake Garda’s southeastern shore
Consortium members had gathered there to meet researchers who recently surveyed the appellation
Paolo Fiorino of Garda DOC Consortium speaks
with a great spirit of collaboration and sharing among producers
We know our strengths include heterogeneity; we now need to learn our weaknesses
but not focus on inadequacies,” Fiorini urged
Angelo Zago from the Department of Economic Sciences at the University of Padua mentioned how Lake Garda is renowned for having a “good price quality relationship among the public
It’s a very well managed appellation that can develop added value at different price segments
consumers find it difficult to define the appellation
wine business consultant Fabio Piccoli explained that global wine sales are currently in complex flux (with red wine sales generally decreasing)
He mentioned that three specific elements can help Garda DOC move forward on an economically sound footing
These are innovation—welcoming new trends; adaptation—exploiting these trends
and diversification to allow for better competitive advantage
These voices contained common threads: consortium members and advisors realize that Garda DOC has huge advantages
that members are curious and open minded about better exploiting their unique features
and that the consortium wants better to communicate its identity to Italy
Will current wine production trends within Garda DOC align with long-term advantage
Consider the following inputs from two individuals who studied the situation
Having been involved with a recent study of Garda DOC strengths and opportunities
Eugenio Pomarici of the Center for Research in Viticulture and Oenology of Padua addressed the competitive situation for Garda DOC wines
He and associates interviewed a wide range of individuals with diverse roles inside the appellation—including in management
He revealed that most stakeholders identified two grape varieties to focus on: Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio
a PhD Student from the University of Padua explained that six cooperatives within the appellation (of which five also include bottling lines) now produce 76% of all Garda DOC wines
and that four principal categories of white wines produced within the appellation are Chardonnay
Pinot Grigio and white ‘frizzante,’ or semi-sparkling wines
She mentioned there is a positive trend among consumers to seek white wines that are ‘fresh.’
(The Garda DOC consortium is already hitching itself to the image of Lake Garda— including sailing
This may be to better embrace a concept of freshness—think wild
Sailing along Lake Garda in northern Italy
This showed that over 80% of those ranked top for value (‘superlative’ and ‘excellent’) were sparkling wines; most of these (not all) were made using the classical method (which includes secondary fermentation)
Town of Lazise along southern Lake Garda in Italy
Paolo Fiorini summarized recent efforts to survey advantages of Garda DOC.
“Our goal is to etch the identity of our exceptional varietal and sparkling wines in people’s minds, wines that are intertwines with our region, with its unique geographical and climatic characteristics that make it … one of the most popular tourist destinations nationally and internationally.”
Garda is no longer a ‘great’ lake because of its size, but also because of attractions. These include a range of terrain as well as wine types. Diversity can be a strength, especially after production and marketing elements are analyzed for potential before being focused on for excellence. By deciding to take these actions, Garda DOC is forging forward in an intelligent direction that is also un vero lavoro d’amore—a true labor of love.
and a seductive series of images are likely to scroll across the mind’s eye: breathtaking scenery of mountains plunging into the lake’s water
glamorous Baroque villas surrounded by sprawling formal gardens
and possibly even a George Clooney sighting
So what if I were to tell you that there was another great lake a few hours down the road offering all the same experiences—well
except George Clooney—with a fraction of the tourists and a more relaxed vibe
which has been quietly evolving to become more than a destination predominantly loved by Europeans
Enter Cape of Senses
which debuted last summer as the area’s newest—and one of its most spectacular—year-round spa hideaways
Set among the rolling hills above the picture postcard town of Torri del Benaco (make sure to borrow one of the hotel’s bicycles or its electric Fiat 500 to pay a visit to the harbor with its charming restaurants and shops)
this resort is all about the view—and what a view it is
Photo: Alex MolingOn the bright spring morning I arrived
the jagged topography of the mountains on the other side of the lake stretched as far as the eye can see
with wisps of cloud swirling above them and Garda’s glittering waters below
the lights on the opposite shore begin to twinkle gently as the property’s gardens were tastefully lit up for an additional touch of drama
And the entire thing is framed by the hotel itself
a sleek architectural marvel designed by Hugo and Alessia Demetz of the locally-based DemetzArch that compliments the surrounding landscapes while never overpowering them
While they’d always dreamed of opening a property on the lakes
it wasn’t until discovering this site back in 2018 (at the time
it was a neglected olive grove) that they realized they’d found their perfect spot
and spent the next five years bringing their vision meticulously to life
with the pared-back design of the suites (every one of the 55 guestrooms here is a suite
it turns out) seeming almost to become one with the natural surroundings
The vibe is minimal—plush taupe sofas and beds outfitted in crisp white linens might be accented with cushions in a dusty orange
that you might be tempted to spend all day in them
the property has been carefully designed to constantly lure you back to the great outdoors
(There’s also a vast range of activities on offer for those planning a longer stay
many of which turn the spotlight to local makers working in a similar mode to the team at Cape of Senses
such as tours of local oil mills and wineries.)
Photo: Florian AndergassenTop marks for the food too
which—under the aegis of executive chef Francesco Pavan—can be found across two restaurants: the leisurely poolside Osteria La Pergola
which serves light Italian classics for tucking into while taking a brief sojourn from your sunlounger
which sits on the property’s top floor and offers innovative spins on Mediterranean cuisine that highlights the wonders of the kitchen’s firmly local
Dishes span everything from the decadent—a delectably rich poached egg lavished with cheese sauce and truffle
or a slow-cooked duck leg in a red wine syrup and blackberry jus—to light and bright plates of artfully arranged endive salads and restorative ribollita
If you’re feeling particularly decadent after a long day of restoring the mind
The in-house mixologists will concoct a delicious herb-infused spritz
Photo: Jacopo SalviBut all of this leads up to one thing, and one thing only: the property’s seriously impressive, 21,000-square-foot Senses Spa
You’ll find all the classic spa facilities here
and a jacuzzi—but there’s a notable emphasis on bringing the outside in
From the moment you step inside the spa complex
and take your first deep breath of the lavender and thyme-infused air
a sense of calmness descends; in place of the elaborate bells and whistles of many brand-new spa offerings
You can tuck yourself into a cozy corner of one of the various relaxation areas
or the lounge-like spa library—all designed in sleek
soothing neutrals—or delve into the selection of fresh herbal teas and jars of nuts and dried fruit
but it’s always the views that take center stage
thanks to the sweeping walls of glass that line one side of every room
Photo: Jacopo SalviThe signature treatment here is the Senses Pinda: a two-hour full-body extravaganza that includes a hot pads and wild herb ritual
before diving into a massage that uses a mixture of citrus
followed by a nourishing facial using flower extracts and Macadamia oil
every treatment—and the spa menu runs the full gamut from East to West—is executed to the highest degree
with the help of herb-infused products by MEI
(MEI stands for “migliori erbe Italiani,” and quite literally translates as “best Italian herbs.”)
once you’ve soaked and scrubbed and sauna-d yourself out
you can make the most of the spa’s thoughtful approach to indoor-outdoor design by wandering through the olive groves and stationing yourself on one of the cabana-like outdoor lounge areas
Don’t forget the daily lineup of free wellness activities
Yoga classes in the morning (or occasionally at nightfall) at the hotel’s outdoor spa platform
situated under a fragrant cluster of olive and lemon trees and with unparalleled views over the lake
Cape of Senses may be just 40 minutes from the city center of Verona
bucolic paradise that somehow feels like a whole other world
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Luxury fashion often balances heritage with innovation, and Canali has mastered this art with its Spring/Summer 2025 campaign. Rooted in the brand’s signature craftsmanship, the latest collection embraces a refined yet relaxed aesthetic, celebrating the essence of Italian lifestyle and elegance
Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Garda
the campaign reflects Canali’s evolving narrative—one that places Inner Beauty at the heart of its philosophy
Through a seamless blend of natural elements
the collection presents a vision of effortless refinement designed for the modern man
Italy has long been synonymous with style, and Canali’s latest offering perfectly encapsulates this heritage
The Spring/Summer 2025 collection is an ode to relaxed sophistication
translating the tranquility of Lake Garda’s serene waters into a wardrobe that exudes understated luxury
The interplay of earthy tones and soft textures mirrors the surrounding landscape
creating a visual connection between fashion and nature
Canali’s signature color palette plays a pivotal role in defining the collection’s identity
and Blu Mezzanotte (dark navy) complement the fluidity of the designs
ensuring a seamless transition between formalwear and leisurewear
Whether it’s the crisp tailoring of a lightweight suit or the effortless drape of a linen shirt
each piece reflects a sense of freedom and refinement that aligns with contemporary menswear trends
At the core of Canali’s identity is a commitment to Made in Italy craftsmanship
a tradition that continues to evolve without losing its essence
The Spring/Summer 2025 collection introduces modern tailoring innovations that prioritize comfort without compromising elegance
a hallmark of Canali’s meticulous approach
showcase an unparalleled level of sartorial precision
A standout feature of the collection is the Nuvola construction
which enhances the sensation of lightness and movement
This technique ensures that even the most structured pieces feel effortlessly wearable
catering to men who demand both sophistication and ease in their wardrobe
the three-dimensional reinterpretation of traditional knitwear stitching brings depth and texture to classic pieces
reinforcing Canali’s ability to merge tradition with contemporary aesthetics
Beyond the impeccable tailoring and luxurious materials
Canali’s Spring/Summer 2025 campaign is deeply rooted in the philosophy of Inner Beauty
emphasizing the importance of authenticity
The campaign’s narrative unfolds through the lens of renowned photographer Ben Weller
whose ability to capture spontaneity and depth adds a distinct emotional layer to the collection
The imagery portrays a group of close friends basking in the effortless charm of Lake Garda
their interactions a reflection of shared moments and timeless bonds
and the rhythmic movement of the water serve as metaphors for a lifestyle that values presence and appreciation
Canali envisions the modern man as someone who is not merely an observer of the world but an active participant in its beauty—one who embraces life’s subtle details with grace and sensitivity
Canali has long been synonymous with elegant menswear
but the Spring/Summer 2025 collection further refines the brand’s commitment to contemporary luxury
Designed for the man who values quiet confidence
these pieces are perfect for those who appreciate impeccable tailoring with a relaxed sensibility
From lightweight blazers and soft-structured suits to breathable knits and fluid trousers
the collection seamlessly transitions from formal to casual
ensuring that each garment adapts effortlessly to various settings—whether it’s a summer wedding
Luxury fashion is no longer just about exclusivity—it’s about experience
Canali’s Spring/Summer 2025 campaign encapsulates all three
offering a collection that feels both timeless and refreshingly modern
By drawing inspiration from Italy’s natural beauty and infusing it with sartorial excellence
the brand reaffirms its position as a leader in contemporary menswear
For those seeking a wardrobe that combines sophisticated tailoring with effortless comfort, Canali’s latest collection delivers. Explore the full range on Canali’s official website and select retailers worldwide
Input your search keywords and press Enter
Cape of Senses is a five-star hotel on Lake Garda
a less-touristy and cheaper alternative to Lake Como just two hours north of Milan
She has visited more than 50 countries on six continents and has contributed to outlets including Vanity Fair
Lake Garda offers adventurers opportunities for rock climbing
Italy's Lake Garda bleeds into the Dolomites
making it a popular destination for hikers with a taste for aperitivo.Photograph by Slawek KozdrasStory and photographs bySlawek KozdrasMay 24
2024This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK).In northern Italy
the upper reaches of Lake Garda wash into the Dolomites
this area offers natural highs and tranquil lows
via ferratas and hikes through cypress-lined hills
you’re never far from a waterside piazza where you can unwind during aperitivo hour — and rest your weary limbs
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the Castle of Desenzano del Garda (Brescia) becomes the stage for the exhibition Mondo Futurista
Curated by historian Giordano Bruno Guerri and MV Arte director Matteo Vanzan
the exhibition offers an overview of the movement that changed the face of modern art
bringing dynamism and innovation to the center of international cultural debate.It is a tribute to Futurism and a journey that explores how these ideas traversed art history
from its birth in 1909 with Filippo Tommaso Marinetti ’s Manifesto to the 1940s
giving rise to a confrontation between the solemnity of medieval history and the energy of futurist modernity
is transformed from a simple container to an active protagonist
“Marinetti first spoke of an art ’for everyone,’” argues Giordano Bruno Guerri
curator of the exhibition and president of the Vittoriale
“of a culture to be transferred out of its institutional places
so as to give everyone ’the will to think
This exhibition shows in abundance how important
innovative and still alive among us was the movement created by the brilliant Filippo Tommaso Marinetti.” He concludes
“Particularly important is the presence of the sculpture ’Unique Forms of Continuity in Space,’ by Umberto Boccioni
in the specimen of the extraordinary foundryman Francesco Bruni
who kept it for himself and placed it in the garden
In the fifty years it spent in the open air
weathering that never stopped the Futurist race
free to enchant us with its astonishing beauty.”
“Presenting an exhibition on Futurism inside a 13th-century castle was an opportunity to create a dialogue between seemingly irreconcilable historical eras,” says Matteo Vanzan
speed and progress contrasted with the atmosphere of a castle that narrates remote events marked
This dialogue made it possible to create a bridge between established historical and cultural traditions and their renewal through a boldness that exalted the disruptive force of art to the point of flowing into life itself
”Mondo futurista“ therefore aims to be a cross-section on a movement that
appears not only as an aesthetic and stylistic renewal
as a compact and unified ”creed“ in dialogue with a zeitgeist that considerably influenced the very spirituality of all the artists who espoused Marinetti’s ideals.”
Mondo Futurista is a narrative that starts in 1901
with the work Il lavacro dell’umanità by Gaetano Previati
and develops over a time span that reaches 1942-1943
A selection of 50 works-ranging from oil on canvas
lithographs and period posters-will accompany visitors along a path that recounts Futurism in all its complexity
The works that make up the exhibition are some of the most famous
such as Unique Forms of Continuity in Space by Umberto Boccioni
which beautifully expresses the idea of movement and speed
lesser-known but equally significant works stand out
such as Plinio Nomellini’s Maggio 1915
and Italo Fasulo’s Città Cosmica
which highlight the plurality of expressions and styles within the movement
As Marinetti wrote in his famous 1909 manifesto
“We affirm that the magnificence of the world has been enriched with a new beauty: the beauty of speed.” It is an idea that pervades the entire exhibition
from paintings to sculptures to Futurist posters and texts
The beauty of speed becomes an aesthetic principle
Works such as Luigi Russolo’s L’Arte dei Rumori
which sought to translate the sounds of modernity into visual and sonic languages
represent the push toward an art that was not only visual
including the first edition of Mafarka the Futurist and Zang Tumb Tumb
provides another level of understanding of the movement
offering visitors the opportunity to explore the literary and theoretical aspects of Futurism as well
demonstrate how Futurism was not only a movement of rupture
but also of creating new artistic possibilities
which redefined the concept of art and beauty
In a context that celebrates speed and progress
Mondo Futurista is an opportunity to also rethink current events and our relationship to change in a world that continues to move at dizzying speed
The exhibition Mondo Futurista is promoted by the Culture Department of the City of Desenzano del Garda and organized by MV Arte
in collaboration with the Culture Office of the City of Desenzano
Its realization is supported by important sponsors
An exhibition itinerary that not only recounts a fundamental historical period for art
but also invites every visitor to question the link between past and future
It’s Italy’s largest lake (some 143 square miles) and as such offers astonishingly varied landscapes
open terrain and gentle rolling hills in the south to dramatic mountainous scenery in the north
who would retreat here for extended periods to take to their craft — DH Lawrence spent many a month in the genteel lakefront town of Gargnano penning "},"children":[]},{"name":"italic","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Twilight to Italy"},"children":[]}]},{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"."},"children":[]}]},{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"This is a land of lemons
with a mild Mediterranean climate that has long attracted visitors from northern Europe
There’s no shortage of places to stay — you’ll find historic villas with impeccably manicured gardens,"},"children":[]},{"name":"paywall","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":" gorgeous boutique hotels set in converted farmhouses and convents
and manor houses that have been lovingly run by the same family for centuries
The mineral-rich thermal waters also make Lake Garda a spa destination
with several award-winning hotels serving as rejuvenating retreats
These are the best places to stay on Lake Garda."},"children":[]}]}]},{"name":"paywall","children":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"link","children":[{"name":"italic","children":[{"name":"text","children":[],"attributes":{"value":"Become a subscriber"}}]}],"attributes":{"href":"https://www.thetimes.com/subscribe/"}},{"name":"italic","children":[{"name":"text","children":[],"attributes":{"value":" and
along with unlimited digital access to The Times and The Sunday Times
you can enjoy a collection of travel offers and competitions curated by our trusted travel partners
especially for Times+ members"}}]}]},{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"italic","children":[{"name":"text","children":[],"attributes":{"value":"This article contains affiliate links
which may earn us revenue"}}]},{"name":"break","children":[]}]},{"name":"heading2","children":[{"name":"text","children":[],"attributes":{"value":"1
Salo"}}]},{"name":"image","attributes":{"id":"2ee86a23-c59b-4cb6-b22a-8949be9b383d","display":"fullwidth","caption":null,"title":"Hotel Villa Arcadio
this delightful four-star hotel breathes sophistication and serenity into what was once a medieval convent
The villa marries original features (stone fireplaces
terracotta floors and beautifully restored frescoes) with the owners’ private collection of art and antiques
While away your afternoons by the swimming pool or hop on a bike to explore the area on two wheels — the pretty town of Salò is only a couple of miles away
Gargnano"}}]},{"name":"image","attributes":{"id":"6e9c3969-14c3-49d9-9c87-cb0f75e1aeb6","display":"fullwidth","caption":null,"title":"Lefay Resort and Spa
this soothing resort is hewn into the mountainside
offering truly jaw-dropping views — you’ll fall for the blue of the lake and sky as you float about in one of the three swimming pools
Expect a plethora of wellness offerings at the show-stopping spa
Wellness here is a holistic affair: rituals blend eastern and western therapies
You could easily lounge about on the double sunbeds all day long
cooling off from the heat in the glorious 25m swimming pool
heated indoor-outdoor infinity pool stretches into the gardens
where olive trees provide dapplings of shade
Head inside to find several relaxation areas
There are daily wellbeing sessions to find your inner Zen
from yoga and Pilates to breathwork and sauna sound baths
Riva del Garda"}}]},{"name":"image","attributes":{"id":"24daf007-2880-4951-84a8-afae59c32166","display":"fullwidth","caption":null,"title":"Lido Palace hotel in Riva del Garda
while brightly coloured designer furnishings and abstract canvases give life to polished
huge windows showcase dramatic lake and mountain views
The expansive gardens provide direct access to the lakefront promenade making it easy to slip off and explore the town of Riva del Garda
a well-equipped spa and top-notch dining options
Punta San Vigilio"}}]},{"name":"image","attributes":{"id":"a269695d-999e-4dec-a4fd-bc3afcc58419","display":"fullwidth","caption":null,"title":"Locanda San Vigilio
lakefront location as this elegant 16th-century inn
The property occupies the lush San Vigilio promontory
with the main villa hugging the shorefront
its stone walls washed by the emerald green of the lake
with traditionally styled interiors adorned with thick Persian rugs
There’s a charming swimming pool surrounded by olive groves
a great restaurant and a café with tables lining a stone jetty — head here at sunset for wonderfully romantic views
it’s worth popping by for a drink or a meal
this delightful family-owned property is managed by a father -and-son duo
Father Gianni runs the excellent restaurant
sourcing superlative ingredients from trusted local suppliers
working his culinary magic to create exquisite dishes
You can feast on fish and meat specialities at one of the tables that spill onto the lakefront; it’s also a great little spot for some people watching
Gianni’s son Federico is behind the property’s understated design
Arco"}}]},{"name":"image","attributes":{"id":"c357b2f9-d54c-4751-9118-f2575443e040","display":"fullwidth","caption":null,"title":"Vivere Suites and Rooms
this six-suite property feels more like a private villa than a hotel
It successfully combines design flair with sustainable architecture
with solar panels and geothermal energy providing hot water and electricity
with all-glass windows creating flowing spaces
blurring the lines between inside and outside
Each suite has its own garden providing direct access to the salt water swimming pool
Bardolino"}}]},{"name":"image","attributes":{"id":"2caecaa5-4be6-4c18-afd1-289d9c7395ea","display":"fullwidth","caption":null,"title":"Bedroom at Prati Palai in Bardolino with a bed
The castellated farmhouse is home to eight rooms starring a collection of hand-picked furnishings in warm sage green and rusty red tones
Brushed oak floors and ceiling beams add a pinch of rustic charm
while freestanding rolltop baths in some rooms call for romantic moments with a glass of the estate’s own rosé
Gardone Riviera"}}]},{"name":"image","attributes":{"id":"113d1708-8128-4756-955b-df1832387407","display":"fullwidth","caption":null,"title":"Grand Hotel Fasano
this lakefront property is set in expansive grounds shaded by banana and palm trees
Children will love splashing about in the outdoor pools (one complete with waterslide)
or trying their hand at watersports — paddle boards and kayaks are available to help them explore
The adults-only spa provides a serene space for parents to reset and recharge
Gargnano"}}]},{"name":"image","attributes":{"id":"b51d4747-357c-4ae4-82b7-35ab607d439d","display":"fullwidth","caption":null,"title":"Grand Hotel Villa Feltrinelli
salmon pink lakefront villa feels like a stately home
Original features such as coffered ceilings and intricate frescoes have been beautifully restored
oil portraits hang above custom-made furnishings
while black and white photos are displayed on antique chests of drawers
It’s luxurious and exquisitely beautiful but is in no way stuffy — you’ll feel like you’re staying with a friend for a few days
retreat to the veranda for an alfresco lunch
then curl up with a book in the wood-panelled library
quite possibly without even seeing another guest
With only 20 rooms and a staff ratio of 3:1
advice and deals "}}]},{"name":"link","children":[{"name":"italic","children":[{"name":"text","children":[],"attributes":{"value":"here"}}]}],"attributes":{"href":"https://link.thetimes.co.uk/join/74t/signup-travel"}}]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":200})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Lake Garda impresses from the start due to its sheer size
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Florence’s food markets and Venice’s gondolas.","slug":"things-to-do-in-italy","categoryPath":"/travel/destinations/europe-travel/italy/things-to-do-in-italy-zkvrfhnrk","__typename":"Article","summary({\"maxCharCount\":105})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Whatever your holiday style
"},"children":[]},{"name":"link","attributes":{"href":"https://www.thetimes.com/travel/destinations/europe-travel/italy"},"children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Italy"},"children":[]}]},{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":" won’t disappoint
Florence and"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":125})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Whatever your holiday style
Florence and Venice are a must"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":145})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Whatever your holiday style
but many towns"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":160})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Whatever your holiday style
but many towns feature gorgeous"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":175})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Whatever your holiday style
but many towns feature gorgeous Renaissance"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":225})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Whatever your holiday style
featuring the culture of Florence and the sights of ancient Rome to cycling
Italy is packed"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":160})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"From the pomp and ceremony of Vatican City to the sleepy atmosphere of a medieval town or the romance of a hillside olive grove
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Italy is packed with amazing holiday experiences
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This is no surprise given that you are"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":145})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Everything grinds to a halt in Italy during August
This is no surprise given that you are rarely more than a"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":160})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Everything grinds to a halt in Italy during August
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This is no surprise given that you are rarely more than a two-hour drive from the coast
these are the best hotels on Italy’s largest lakeCape of Senses
Torri del BenacoALEX MOLINGKiki DeereMonday March 17 2025
The TimesLake Garda impresses from the start due to its sheer size
who would retreat here for extended periods to take to their craft — DH Lawrence spent many a month in the genteel lakefront town of Gargnano penning Twilight to Italy
There’s no shortage of places to stay — you’ll find historic villas with impeccably manicured gardens
gorgeous boutique hotels set in converted farmhouses and convents
These are the best places to stay on Lake Garda
Become a subscriber and
Set on a hillside among 32 acres of olive trees and orchards
the breezy vine- and jasmine-clad terrace is a romantic spot to enjoy an intimate tête-à-tête as you watch the sun set over the lake below
££ | SPA | POOL | Best for pampering getaways
and Mediterranean dishes served at the restaurants are designed to nourish the body from within
ALEX MOLLING££ | SPA | POOL | Best for couples escapes
This adults-only spa retreat offers wraparound views from its hillside location
you can zip around using one of the property’s red electric Vespas or Fiat 500s
GETTY IMAGES££ | SPA | POOL | Best for contemporary design
This imposing villa immersed in verdant grounds in the heart of Riva del Garda blends original Belle Epoque features with striking contemporary design
ALAMY££ | SPA | POOL | Best for stepping back in time
Few hotels on Lake Garda claim to have such a dreamy
the hotel’s private green space with a swimming pool and direct access to the lake — also open to non-resident guests
• Most beautiful places in Italy• Read our full guide to Italy
UK.HOTELS.COM£ | Best for an affordable break
Set along Salò’s breezy lakefront promenade
raw textures and crisp lines that make this boutique bolthole stand out from the rest — all at prices that won’t break the bank
Surrounded by vineyards and dramatic cliffs in Lake Garda’s north
and there’s an honesty bar in the lounge stocked with red wines from the owner’s family-run estate
EXPEDIA££ | POOL | Best for country chic vibes
This pared-down hillside retreat sits above the town of Bardolino on Lake Garda’s eastern shore
stroll through vineyards on a morning walk or lounge by the swimming pool taking in glorious lake views
The former hunting lodge of the Royal House of Habsburg
ALAMY£££ | POOL | Best for outstanding service
Sitting within eight acres of exquisitely manicured grounds
it’s like you’re the only one staying here
• Best hotels on Lake Como• Best vineyard hotels in Tuscany
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Grand Hotel Fasano
the five-star family-owned hotel nestled on the shores of Lake Garda
is delighted to announce a new cultural programme for 2025
A carefully curated series of cultural salons by internationally acclaimed and Garda local Art Historian and Curator Elisabetta Bresciani
the programme will provide an exclusive opportunity for guests to meet and share an aperitivo with some of the region’s most interesting artists
Guests of Grand Hotel Fasano will embark on a cultural odyssey around Lake Garda and its surrounds from the comfort of the property
which itself enjoys a storied history as the former hunting lodge of the Habsburg dynasty
participants will have the chance to gain an insight into the local cultural scene – from artists and philosophers to authors – discovering the cultural tapestry of the region through their work
Grand Hotel Fasano offers an exclusive opportunity to discover and enjoy the area’s history
art and culture through full or half days out to nearby Brescia
The bespoke excursions are planned in detail with tailored programs from high profile arts experts
creating truly unique and long-lasting memories
These include private access to individual collections often hosted inside elegant Palazzi as well as the chance to meet with contemporary artists in their ateliers
The 2025 Aperitivo d’Autore programme includes:
5-7pm – Artist’s Talk and Cocktails with Marco Paladini
Marco Paladini will discuss his landscape and light inspired paintings with Giovanni Scudeletti
architect and Deputy Mayor of Gardone Riviera
5-7pm – Writer’s Talk and Cocktails with Anna Katharina Fröhlich
Writer Anna Katharina Fröhlich will present her latest book La trama dell’invisibile
to be published in Italian in April 2025 with Mondadori
Anna Katharina Fröhlich grew up in Frankfurt and Munich and has published five novels to date
A board member of the publishing house Adelphi
she divides her time between Mornaga on Lake Garda and Milan
Her latest book is a literary memoir that traces the intellectual and sentimental partnership – spanning over twenty-five years – that united the author and publisher Roberto Calasso
5-7pm – Artist’s Talk & cocktails with Elisa Martinelli
Join artist Elisa Martinelli as she discusses her latest sculptural paintings inspired by archaic geometric forms
the artist has made hand-carved cracks her signature
Through them she searches for something profound
at the same time venting emotions and feelings
The cracks represent the search for a solution
without knowing where exactly it can be found
They embody the need for matter itself to ‘have an outlet’ – the idea of cracks as destruction
5-7pm – Philosopher’s Talk & Cocktails with Malte Oppermann
Philosopher and writer Malte Oppermann will discuss Das Wesentliche bezüglich des Jetzt
his latest book published in German in 2024 with Karolinger Verlag
Malte Oppermann is the author of a title that refers to a thought expressed by Einstein
according to whom ‘the now has something essential that eludes science
something essentially different from the past and the future and special to people
a professional journalist who writes about travel
the city she described in her guidebook The 500 Hidden Secrets of Milan
5-7pm – Artist’s Talk & Cocktails with Giuseppe Bravi
Giuseppe Bravi will discuss a selection of his paintings inspired by prehistoric signs with Serena Goldoni
Born in 1940 in Milan and a resident in Gavardo
a daring interplay between handwriting and pigment
between signs that are indecipherable on one side and recognisable on the other
Numbers and scratches – whether intentional or not – and dirt stains
sometimes with organic additions such as straw or sand
5-7pm Publisher’s Talk & Cocktails with Gregorio Gitti and Giorgio Bertelli
Gregorio Gitti and Giorgio Bertelli present their publishing house Gitti e Bertelli editori
the result of thirty years of experience of Edizioni l’Obliquo
The project proposes to entrust contemporary artists with the opportunity to design an edition in freedom of expressive means
5-7pm Collector’s Talk & Cocktails with the Mayr Family and Elisabetta Bresciani
will present their family collection of historical photographs of the property
with the talk moderated by Elisabetta Bresciani
which opened in 1888 on the western shore of Lake Garda
Appointed a National Heritage Site by the Ministry of Culture in 1989
Grand Hotel Fasano has always been a symbol of the pioneering tourism focus of the Garda Riviera
so much so that by the 19th century it was a favourite destination for many families of Austrian and German nobility
who wintered here for the mild climate and unparalleled natural panoramas
The ‘Aperitivo d’Autore’ programme is a Grand Hotel Fasano project
conceived and curated by Elisabetta Bresciani
Elisabetta is a trained Art historian who specialises in Cultural Anthropology
Philosophy and Archaeology at Ludwig-Maximilians-University
She founded and was Artistic Director of the Contemporary Arts and Cultures Gallery ‘Il Fondaco’
She initiates projects with a cross-disciplinary approach
designers and cultural studies specialists in order to examine and re-examine history
art and artefacts in the light of current cultural issues
She has organised exhibitions at unusual venues which combine contemporary art with historic sites
like the Prince of Wales’ Charitable Trust in Transylvania
the Sigmund Freud Museum in London and the Benedictine Abbey San Giorgio Maggiore in Venice
Grand Hotel Fasano will reopen for the 2025 season on 4th April
The season will see the unveiling of a host of new offerings for guests
a fully renovated spa and new menus across the property’s restaurants
including the recently awarded one Michelin star Il Fagiano
A Leading Hotel of the World with 86 elegantly appointed rooms and suites
the property was the former hunting lodge of the royal house of Habsburg
The hotel offers guests an exclusive getaway
boasting a prime front-row position along Lake Garda
In addition to its luxurious accommodations
this National Heritage Site encourages guests to discover the captivating charm of Italy’s most exclusive region
featuring a vibrant blend of medieval villages
Nestled between popular destinations Venice
the 135-year-old retreat offers a refreshing alternative to the well-trodden tourist path
*Price in pound sterling accurate on date of publication
I have read and agree to the terms & conditions
Contact us: info@theartsshelf.com
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The beautiful northern Italy waters about to welcome the Desenzano 2024 FISU World University Championship Sailing from 6 until 9 June
in collaboration with CUS-Brescia and under the auspices of the Italian Sailing Federation and the Italian University Sports Center are excited to be hosting the 2024 FISU World University Championship Sailing
14 teams from 16 countries will be competing in the waters of lower Lake Garda
The chosen format for the competition will be fleet racing
in addition to being fast and suitable for Garda regattas
Participants must form a mixed and gender-equal crew
be university student and be born between January 1
The Dolphin 81 is a monotype designed for high-level sailing competitions
It is known to offer exceptional performance
These boats have been carefully designed for maximum performance and are the preferred choice of many professional sailors
Eight boats are available for the student-athletes and will be shared amongst the 16 teams
Lake Garda is swept by high-altitude mountain winds that can be quite intense
that blows from north to south in the morning when the tepid air of the lake rises and gets air from the Valle del Sarca; while the “Ora” blows from the south in the afternoon: it is a lake wind that moves the cool air to the mountains that are warmed up by the daily sunlight
Many other secondary winds accompany these two: the powerful “Balì’’ or “Balinot” that blows from Passo Ballino above Riva; the “Vinessa” that comes from east and is considered an extension of the “Bora” of Trieste; the “Ander” from the north; the “Gardesana”
a chilly and strong breeze that mitigates the summer heat; the “Ponale” that comes from the Valle di Ledro
and that blows in the evening or at night – sometimes even in the morning
Several other breezes take on different names depending on the area
5 June: Opening Ceremony6-7June: Qualifying Rounds8-9 June: Finals9 June: Closing Ceremony
The Desenzano 2024 FISU World University Championship Sailing will not be streamed live, but you can find more information on the official competition website and extensive coverage (photos, videos, interviews) on the even’s social media (Instagram and Facebook). Just jump on deck!
© International University Sports Federation
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allowing you to visit them almost exclusively
we suggest some ideas for fully enjoying this season in the Garda area
Both the towns along the shores of Lake Garda and its cities (Verona
Mantua) enjoy a peaceful atmosphere in winter
far from the energetic hustle and bustle of summer
They offer the opportunity to be visited more intimately
Go for a lovely walk from Limone sul Garda (BS) to its cycle path
photographing every nook and cranny without waiting for the crowds to clear
You can park for free in the car park outside the town centre
the western coast enjoys sunlight from the early hours of the morning
so those who like to get up at dawn can savour the whole day
The same goes for Brenzone sul Garda (VR) with its cycle path leading to Navene di Malcesine
You can discover all the small villages of this scattered municipality by taking a long walk starting from Castelletto di Brenzone
passing through Magugnano and arriving at Assenza di Brenzone
Another nice walk is along the cycle path between Lazise, Bardolino, and Garda (VR)
you will also find plenty of shops and restaurants open even in the low season
What is winter without snow? The mountains around Garda offer the possibility of beautiful snow excursions suitable for everyone. You can discover all the sites of the Lessinia under a white blanket that makes everything more enchanting or snowshoe with the most breathtaking views that the lake and mountains can offer
To spend time with friends and family in total fun
It can be a fun idea even for team building
you can go to: South Garda Karting in Lonato (BS)
We also mention separately the Porsche Experience Center Franciacorta in Castrezzato (BS)
A racetrack where you can experience the thrill of driving on a track
The fun begins as soon as you decide your name to be entered on the scoreboard
you don’t have to put your first name
So let’s have some laughs and self-irony
To challenge each other for the ultimate strike
you can go to: Bowling Leonessa in Brescia
Disco Bowling at the La Grande Mela shopping centre (VR)
Bowling Verona in the Fiera area of Verona
What better season to enjoy the beneficial effects of thermal water
Lake Garda is home to various thermal springs
They are all united by the beauty of the places where they are located
to which you can also add some walks to discover the territory
Not everyone knows that the best time to admire fiery sunsets on Lake Garda is winter
The clear air reduces the haze and ignites the colours
Find our list of where to admire the most beautiful sunsets
Remembering that Lake Garda and its cities offer several Michelin-starred restaurants and the quality of the culinary offer is very high
There are many activities and experiences to do on Lake Garda, for this reason we recommend you to visit the section dedicated to experiences on our magazine by clicking here
– Garda Outdoors Editorial Staff -unless otherwise specified
all photos are taken from the web- Fonti e contenuti correlati
in love with Lake Garda and its opportunities
a meeting place where the passion for this territory meets the tourist's curiosity to visit and discover the beauties of the most beautiful and largest of the Italian lakes
Where to eat
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Wedding & Events
Food & Wine
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Many people travel to escape the daily grind but I love nothing more than a holiday routine
but I fully let go when I know how the day will unfold and all the little bits I can look forward to
At Quellenhof Luxury Resort near Lazise on Lake Garda in northern Italy
my husband and I rose early so we could have the steaming hot outdoor pool all to ourselves
We meandered to breakfast - no rush with the buffet staying open until 11am - and went back for multiple courses
Our afternoons were spent napping in between the sauna
plush relaxation room and daily spa treatments
We rounded off the day with an evening ‘aperitivo’ in the bar before dinner at the very respectable 7pm - reflective of the majority German clientele rather than Mediterraneans
I came to Lake Garda looking to switch off and recharge after a busy few months
The shores of one of Europe’s most famous lakes cover 160km so I had plenty of destinations to choose from
suited me perfectly as it’s only a half-hour drive from Verona airport and the last thing I wanted was a lengthy or complicated journey
It’s a cute town of cobbled streets lined with restaurants
The Navigarda ferry across the lake stops in Lasize’s harbour making for an easy way to explore other towns
Lazise is also halfway between the popular Garda towns of Bardolino and Desenzano
allowing for easy day trips by public bus or car
Quellenhof offers guided tours to nearby cities
and boat trips and e-bike tours around the lake
But don’t feel guilty if you can’t bring yourself to leave the warm and cosy cocoon that the hotel so expertly creates
The sauna area is one of the best I’ve been in
with a whole circuit you can do from sauna to plunge pool to sumptuous relaxation bed
While some fellow guests were clearly regulars
I was glad of the instructions provided to help you reap the full benefits of the sauna experience
Most of the other guests were families with children or teenagers while we were there
probably because it was school holiday time
spa treatments and a sauna specially designed for families
So don’t worry if you’re coming as a couple wanting a romantic break - the adults-only sauna and relaxation area is a child-free zone
We only crossed paths with our fellow guests at mealtimes
the rest of the hotel was quiet and tranquil
you’ll appreciate the waterslide next to the hotel’s outdoor swimming lake and three theme parks within a 20-minute drive (Gardaland - Italy’s largest - CanevaWorld and Legoland)
As with all the best 5* hotels, it’s the little touches that elevate Quellenhof. You’re assigned the same dinner table every night so you become friendly with the wait staff and they pre-empt your order
I travel with a shopping list of dietary restrictions but I never felt short changed by the alternatives on the personalised menu handed to me each night
I noted the pride the staff take in keeping the place immaculate
from replacing a table cloth that didn’t have a sharp enough crease to clearing the crumbs between courses
Most guests are here on half board, with breakfast and dinner included
When I heard it would be six courses every night
I worried we’d be rolling back to our room
But portions were perfectly sized with space left between courses to rest and digest
with multiple choices per course and a great mix of comforting classics and modern creations
It’s no surprise that people come back to Quellenhof again and again
and not just because there are discounts if you come more than once a year
The three hotels in the group are all owned and run by the same family
The family feeling runs through to how guests are welcomed back - I noticed staff greeting them like long lost relatives
What I loved about this hotel was that the service and facilities are first class but it never felt pretentious
You’ll doubtless have a healthy and rejuvenating break here but the spa element isn’t rammed down your throat like it can be at some spa hotels
I didn’t hear ‘wellness’ mentioned even once
I’m still missing our morning swims and regretting that fluffy dressing gowns aren’t suitable attire in the outside world
Ruth Wright and her guest were hosted by Quellenhof Luxury Resort Lazise
The fourth edition of the LAKE GARDA 42 running event
along the northern shores of Lake Garda in Italy
equally divided between the marathon and half-marathon distances
The third edition of the X-BIONIC-sponsored LAKE GARDA 42
took place over the weekend of April 12-14
it set a new participation record with more than 4,200 registered runners from 72 countries
the event will be called FILA LAKE GARDA 42 and will offer the traditional LG42 marathon and LG21 half marathon
The routes of the two main races will remain unchanged: the LG42 marathon will start from Limone sul Garda
pass through Arco and Riva del Garda in Garda Trentino
Arco di Trento and Malcesine are confirmed as the starting and finishing line of the LG21 half-marathon
Now South Korean-owned and headquartered in Seoul
The sports brand was born in 1911 in the province of Biella
“We are thrilled to announce our title sponsorship partnership with the LAKE GARDA 42 2025,” said Peter Bader
“This event represents more than just a race
It’s a celebration of community and it’s the essence of beauty in performance
We look forward to an inspiring journey ahead and are excited to contribute to making the 2025 marathon the most memorable yet.”
and our passion has inspired us to share its beauty with you
That’s why we’ve created a list of 10 places that will make you fall in love with this area
Ready to set off on an exciting journey through charming villages
we’re off to discover the 10 must-see places in 2025
If you need to unwind, hop in the car and come discover this valley immersed in nature. Lake Ledro is a marvel
with turquoise water that’s just begging for a dip
Did you know that the remains of a 4000-year-old pile-dwelling village were found here
Visit the Museo delle Palafitte (Pile-Dwelling Museum)
where you can take a journey back in time to the Bronze Age
an artistic trail in nature that will leave you speechless
don’t miss the trek to the Madonnina di Besta: the view is breathtaking
Never heard of Valvestino
an oasis of peace where nature reigns supreme
Keep your eyes peeled: you might spot deer
you might even glimpse the old Austro-Hungarian customs house emerging from the waters of the artificial lake
Toscolano Maderno is a town that really has so much to offer
admire the Basilica di Sant’Andrea and Palazzo Bulgheroni with its magnificent gardens
Don’t forget to visit the Valle delle Cartiere (Paper Mill Valley)
a natural area that houses the ruins of the old paper mills and the Museo della Carta (Paper Museum)
Monte Pizzocolo offers breathtaking views of the lake
Admit it: you also thought Brescia was just an industrial city, right
with a historic centre rich in history and art
admire the two Cathedrals and the Santa Giulia Museum
Don’t miss the Castle on Colle Cidneo
from which you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city
Garda is not only the town that gives its name to the lake
but it’s also a place full of things to see and do
Get lost in the alleys of the historic centre
admire the Palazzo dei Capitani and the Church of Santa Maria Assunta
Don’t forget to visit Punta San Vigilio
from which you can enjoy a panoramic view of the lake
the Valle dei Mulini (Valley of the Mills)
and the Garda – Bardolino – Lazise cycle-pedestrian path
Malcesine is one of those places that capture your heart at first glance
And then there’s the historic centre
Malcesine has a sporty vibe: here you can go windsurfing
with the wind in your hair and a breathtaking view: an experience to try at least once in your life
San Zeno offers splendid views and an atmosphere of peace
San Felice del Benaco is a quiet and relaxing town
perfect for those seeking a relaxing holiday
visit the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Carmine and relax on the beaches of the harbour
Don’t forget to explore the hamlet of Portese
where you can admire the first Big Bench of Lake Garda
Brentonico
admire the blooms along the Sentiero della Pace (Path of Peace); in summer
enjoy the cool air and outdoor activities; in autumn
immerse yourself in the colours of the foliage; in winter
with its botanical garden and Fossil Museum
Valpolicella
is a must-see for lovers of food and wine and culture
Don’t miss the Pieve di San Giorgio Ingannapoltron
and the Sanctuary of the Madonna de La Salette
Valpolicella offers numerous trails for hiking and mountain biking
So, what do you think, do you like these places? Have we made you want to plan your holiday
We look forward to seeing you on Lake Garda
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the EasyPark app has been expanding in Italy
The latest cities to get the innovative parking app are Desenzano del Garda
The EasyPark app is available for the blue-line parking areas in these cities
The app allows drivers to pay via their smart phone without the hassle of carrying cash or having to find a meter
The parking app is free to download for iOS
and users only need to register and fill in their payment details
Desenzano del Garda is a popular tourist destination because of the Garda lake and the nearby Alps
while Monte Argentario in Tuscany and Isola delle Femmine in Sicily near Palermo are popular beach destinations
The EasyPark app adapts well to these cities because of its intuitive nature and the different payment possibilities such as PayPal
the Councilor for Economic Development for Desenzano del Garda
stated “with this agreement we are offering a convenient solution for tourist and residents […] we chose one of the leaders in the industry in order to offer the same convenience as in Brescia and other municipalities.”
allows the driver to ease the parking operations and be able to spend more time on their business and to their lives.”
The EasyPark app is already in use in 80 Italian cities such as Rome
Verona and Catania as well as in other European cities
Roads lined with bougainvillaea and olive trees
Lake Garda reflecting the evening sun: this timeless landscape forms the backdrop for the celebrated wines of the Bardolino region
Bardolino is a region situated in western Veneto
located on the southeastern shore of Lake Garda
With the Adige river valley and the Monte Baldo range to the north
soils here are sedimentary and gravel- based
Bardolino has built a reputation for red and rosato styles produced from permitted varieties Corvina Veronese
Ray O’Connor MW points out that although Bardolino ‘is not new to the world of wine
the quality and style of its wines perfectly suit what a lot of the market is looking for today: lighter and fresher reds as well as premium
The region has the benefit of a stunning lake and surroundings for people to appreciate the wines.’
Bardolino is also a key location for wine tourism
from the immersive journey through winemaking history offered at Cantina Zeni to local lakeside cuisine at restaurants such as Taverna Kus and Affi Wine Bar
The following small selection is only a snapshot of what the Bardolino region – with around 100 producers
family-run businesses to large-scale wineries – has to offer
The celebrated reds of Lake Garda (DOC established in 1968) are typically light with good fragrance
distinctive salinity and an under-explored potential for ageing
Classico wines are produced from Bardolino’s traditional heartland
Le Fraghe
Monte Zovo
Albino Piona
Le Tende
cut through with well-integrated acid – fresh on the finish
Designated ‘Chiaretto di Bardolino’ since 2021
the region’s rosé emphasises terroir identity
and is produced from up to 95% Corvina Veronese
Accounting for roughly 1,000ha of Bardolino’s vineyards
Chiarettos are typically pale in colour due to low levels of varietal anthocyanins
and characterised by a distinctive saline note – a trait typical of the morainic soils (from glacial deposits)
This category is giving rise to an exciting culture of rosé winemaking experimentation
Monte del Frà
Cavalchina
Tenuta La Presa
Aldo Adami
Bardolino’s three subzones (sottozone) demonstrate a growing focus on terroir expression and quality wine production at lower yields
The Montebaldo subzone to the north is cooler and fresher
sees the lowest rainfall and warmest days – nuances that producers are exploring
Guerrieri-Rizzardi
Giovanna Tantini
Gorgo
fewer crowds and thus better quality in hospitality
Why not leave the car behind and use the public water transport system
from which you can disembark directly in the heart of the lakeside villages
visit them at your own pace and eat at one of the lakefront restaurants
The west coast is definitely superior and has recently experienced further growth
In addition to the 10 top addresses selected
we would like to suggest a number of other top-quality restaurants more focused on local products
always try the freshwater fish: lake sardines
This is just a small selection of the many great places you can find around Lake Garda
La Terrazza in Torbole and Al Volt in Riva del Garda
Alla Frassa in Castelletto di Brenzone and Da Oreste in Lazise
Locanda del Benaco and Osteria dell’Orologio in Salò
Pro tip: pair your order with a glass of Valtenesi or Lugana
This is the flagship restaurant of one of the most beautiful hotels of Lake Garda, Grand Hotel Fasano. 10 tables are set indoors, with customary lakefront terrace seating outdoors. The chef, Maurizio Bufi, formerly at Villa Giulia, knows how to celebrate local ingredients and traditions without relinquishing his roots (he is from Puglia)
The menu is eclectic – from pike cartellata with smoked potatoes
star bartender Rama Redzepi has an infinite list of gin and tonic variations
while vegetarian tasting menus are also available
Lake Garda restaurants often feature on the list of discerning gastronomes – and this is one such surefire address for gourmets who enjoy eating al fresco. Here, Massimo Fezzardi leads in the kitchen and Emanuele Signorini plays maitre d’ and sommelier for one of the best wine cellars of the area. If you are looking for a romantic setting
There is a tasting menu devoted to freshwater fish
in the signature menu alternating cold and hot hors d’oeuvres
Villa FeltrinelliVilla FeltrinelliVilla Feltrinelli – Gargnano (Brescia)Villa Feltrinelli is
one of the most charming places in the world
The 19th-century neo-gothic villa where Mussolini spent his last years was turned into a five-star hotel in 1997
right on the water and surrounded by lush gardens dotted with exotic plants and trees
The restaurant has two Michelin stars and a stunning terrace
an Italian chef with an unparalleled international professional experience
This was one of the first Italian restaurants to be awarded a Michelin star – and the team have ensured said star hasn't left the osteria’s door since 1980
It was local power couple Danilo and Maria Filippini
who managed to elevate the osteria to fine dining
It sits only a few steps away from the little harbour of one the most picturesque towns on the western shore
The last generation of the Filippini family
has chosen to be a little less formal and make Tortuga more eclectic
Vecchia MalcesineVecchia Malcesine – Malcesine (Verona) The only Michelin-starred restaurant on the eastern shore; under the watchful eye of Leandro Luppi, who was born in Bozen but has been living in the area since forever. The modern, elegant restaurant has a gorgeous view and a worthy wine cellar
There are two menus: one is known and offers signature dishes like “lake carbonara”
the other is an adventurous jump into the unknown
Casa Leali - Mise en placeCasa Leali – Puegnago del GardaCasa leali is a farmhouse – more precisely a ‘casa colonica’ – surrounded by olive groves and renovated with taste
This is where brothers Andrea and Marco Leali
the duo are steadily gaining in popularity with critics and customers
They look at the world but also at their own land
between innovation and unusual pairings to exalt the local tradition – see Ravioli Bresciani
the 'dirty' Minestra (rice in chicken broth and gizzards) or the roasted chub fillets
Regio Patio at Regina AdelaideRegio Patio at Regina Adelaide Hotel – Garda (Verona)A restaurant inside one of the historic hotels of Garda village. Chef Andrea Costantini is considered by his master Bruno Barbieri to be one of the best in interpreting Italian cuisine
with a patio and garden a few steps from the water
from appetisers to desserts – let’s just cite the “almost dessert” with lettuce
It only has one Michelin star – how long before it gets a second
has become a go-to for gourmets over the last few years
regularly welcoming chefs from around the world thanks to Riccardo’s talent in the kitchen
There’s genius in their simplicity and use of innovation
Lido 84’s dishes manage to amaze every time across an ever-changing menu
Four or seven courses see Ghezzi hit the mark every time using very few elements with exceptional elegance
Giuliana Germiniasi and her daughter Francesca Tassi are two of the best chefs in Italy and for good reason
The location is unique: elegant interiors and an enormous terrace with views encompassing all of Valtenesi and the lower Garda
it can depend upon a big cellar and a vast selection of spirits
summery dishes like marinated mackerel with crunchy vegetables
Address: Piazza S.Bernardo, 6, 25080 Manerba d/GardaWebsite: ristorantecapriccio.it
Felter alle RoseFelter alle Rose – Salò (Brescia)An interesting pairing is the key here: Matteo Felter
and the local chef was onto something just a few months after taking on the new role
The menu follows two parallel directions: on one hand the highest attention to local ingredients (see freshwater fish)
Mos – Desenzano del GardaStefano ButturiniMos – Desenzano del Garda (Brescia)Youth and ambition are behind the creation of Mos
landed from Salina’s Signum in the old harbour of Desenzano
Two choices: an easy lakefront formula with a glass of wine and a serving of comfort food
and a fresh experimental gourmet experience
the lower Alps (the “sheep and eel” main course) come together with impressive results and an even higher potential
Three tasty and rich menus make for a stimulating experience
Clément Davy (Groupama - FDJ) is the seventh rider to start today
Crowds cheer for Italian Mirco Maestri (Polti Kometa)
who put himself on the map in stage 12 after joining a breakaway with Julian Alaphilippe (Soudal Quick-Step)
Lucas Plapp (Jayco-AlUla) is currently second
Saturday's 31km flat individual time trial from Castiglione delle Stiviere to Desenzano del Garda could open up the GC
Hello, and welcome to our coverage of stage 18 of the Giro d'Italia
It's a second individual time trial today: a mostly flat
31.2km route from Castiglione delle Stiviere to Desenzano del Garda on the shore of Lake Garda in northern Italy
It's a stage that could open up gaps in the GC
for time triallists like Filippo Ganna (Ineos Grenadiers)
I'm Emma Magnus
and I'll be guiding you through all the action today
Alan Riou (Arkéa - B&B Hotels) is the first to go
The last rider will be Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates) at 15.43.
Here are some of the key riders to watch today (all in UK time):
Edoardo Affini (Visma-Lease a Bike) - 12.59
Magnus Sheffield (Ineos Grenadiers) - 14.35
Thymen Arensman (Ineos Grenadiers) - 15.16
Antonio Tiberi (Bahrain - Victorious) - 15.31
Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates) - 15.43
Edoardo Affini (Visma-Lease a Bike) is off
Let’s take a closer look at the parcours today
There are a series of minor ups and downs but the stage is largely flat
It's 23 degrees and sunny at the start.
Today's ITT is much flatter than that of stage 7
which began with a 32km flat section before climbing up the Casaglia
Filippo Ganna (Ineos Grenadiers) is the bookmakers' favourite today
He's currently warming up for his start at 12.35
he was beaten in stage 7 by Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates)
and has never beaten the Slovenian in a Grand Tour ITT
"I want to have sensations like last time," said Pogačar before the race
but let's see how close I can get to Ganna
Josef Černý (Soudal Quick-Step) is the man currently in the hotseat
having finished in 36 minutes and 58 seconds
with an average speed of 50.6 kilometres per hour
Here's the top 10 from stage 7's time trial:
Can Ganna get a victory over Pogačar today
It's worth noting that tomorrow is the Giro's hardest mountain stage
It'll be interesting to see how the GC men play it today
Daan Hoole (Lidl-Trek) has the new fastest time
Stage favourite Filippo Ganna (Ineos Grenadiers) is up now
with a chance to win a stage at the Giro d'italia for the first time in three years
Edoardo Affini (Visma-Lease a Bike) has set the new fastest time at 36.32 (51.2 km/h)
Here comes Mikkel Bjerg (UAE Team Emirates)
It’s TT day at the #Giro ⏱️Last night we caught up with @GannaFilippo ahead of the 31.2km test to preview stage 1️⃣4️⃣ pic.twitter.com/FeELlhLbm7May 18, 2024
has the same time as Affini at the first time check
Ganna is the fastest by 13 seconds at the first time check
Milesi (Movistar) finishes 2 seconds behind Affini (Visma-Lease a Bike)
a ride for the U23 world ITT champion to be proud of
Tobias Foss (Ineos Grenadiers) is fastest at the second timepoint by 4 seconds
Ganna is fastest by 59 seconds at the second time check. He's riding at 51.97 km/h and the commentators are loving his smooth
🇮🇹 Top Ganna is currently one minute (59 seconds) ahead of @Tobias_S_Foss at the second intermediate point. #GirodItalia pic.twitter.com/KO44k97B6iMay 18, 2024
Tobias Foss (Ineos Grenadiers) unseats Edoardo Affini (Visma-Lease a Bike)
He shouldn't make himself too comfortable though - Ganna is coming
Luke Plapp (Team Jayco AlUla) is on the road
He finished fifth on stage 7 and is the Australian national TT champion
"Pippo in Italy is a different person than I have seen in other races," says teammate Tobias Foss
What he did today on this kind of TT - even Pogi will struggle to beat him
⚡ A stratospheric ride by @GannaFilippo sees him move into the hot seat, with a time of 35'02", or an average speed of 53.4 km/h#GirodItalia pic.twitter.com/twRaZIqULrMay 18, 2024
followed by Magnus Sheffield (Ineos Grenadiers)
Luke Plapp (Jayco AlUla) has finished and is currently in second place
Magnus Sheffield (Ineos Grenadiers) is only 5 seconds behind his teammate at the first time check
"I didn't want to go out there and have an average ride," says Luke Plapp (Team Jayco AlUla)
"I went out there with nothing to lose...I'm pretty happy with that ride."
Plapp also said that the course was faster and less technical than he'd anticipated on his recon
"You think the barriers are tighter than they actually are...It's a really quick course
Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates) is warming up
Magnus Sheffield (Ineos Grenadiers) has crashed
but his right leg is bloodied and his shorts are torn
putting him into a provisional second place
Let's hope this doesn't cost him too much time
let's take a look at how the GC currently stands:
Magnus Sheffield has finished in a provisional seventh place
💥 7th time across the line for @MagnusSheffield as he suffers a nasty crash in a right hander #GirodItalia pic.twitter.com/6DLGQHQcYYMay 18, 2024
Today is an opportunity to right the wrongs of stage 7
in which he was openly disappointed about his 10th place finish
Daniel Martínez (BORA-Hansgrohe) is also on his way
He'll be looking to cement his second position on GC
here's a reminder of how today's results currently stand:
Ganna says it's "impossible" to be too optimistic
Geraint Thomas is 11 seconds behind Ganna at the first checkpoint
Danny Martínez is 19 seconds behind Thomas
🏳️ Everyone has started! 💗 @TamauPogi is 3' behind Dani Martinez, himself 3' behind Geraint Thomas #GirodItalia pic.twitter.com/NpSviN1zsLMay 18, 2024
Pogačar is 4 seconds ahead of Ganna at the first time check
Pogačar is tucking down the bottoms of his sleeves in an effort to save watts
"All these little things add up," says commentator Luke Rowe
Antonio Tiberi (Bahrain-Victorious) is having a great ride
Eurosport commentator Daniel Oss says that the wind has dropped in the last hour
which gives an advantage to the later starters
Geraint Thomas is putting 36 seconds into Danny Martinez
He'll be moving back up to second place in the GC if this continues
Geraint Thomas is 4th at the second checkpoint at 47 seconds down on Ganna
It's the same time as his teammate Arensman
Tiberi has finished in provisional 4th place
A great result for Ben O'Connor (Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale) finishes 1.25 down on Ganna
Geraint Thomas has finished in provisional third place
and it's looking like he will shift up to second on the GC
Danny Martínez has finished his TT in provisional 13th place
Pogačar is gritting his teeth as he comes to the finish line
He's increased his lead in the GC to over three minutes
And sharing the joy 😊(congrats @GannaFilippo 👏)#GirodItalia @INEOSGrenadiers pic.twitter.com/HIFIFhP09rMay 18, 2024
For a full recap, you can read the race report here.
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Reporting by Trevor Stynes; Editing by Hugh Lawson
Thymen Arensman finishes third in Desenzano del Garda
dominating the time trial with a finishing time 29 seconds clear of anyone else
Ganna’s time of 35:02 – set at an average speed of 53.453kph on the 31.2km course to Desenzano del Garda – beat Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates) into second place
while a stellar ride from Thymen Arensman (Ineos Grenadiers) saw him place third with a time of 36:09 to shoot up four places in the standings to sixth overall
Arensman’s teammate Geraint Thomas was another big winner on the day
gaining time from the start on podium rival Dani Martínez (Bora-Hansgrohe) to move ahead into second place with a time of 36:16
Thomas now lies 3:41 down on Pogačar before the Giro heads back to the high mountains on Sunday
though both he and his team can come away from the day happy
celebrating the 25th time trial victory of Ganna’s career and a 1-3-4 finish on the stage
“Today I suffered a lot,” Ganna said after his victory
“I was just speaking with Jonathan Milan – for him
and then you know immediately if you win or not.
a little bit blocked with emotions because to win in Italy after a lot of time without a win is a really intense moment
it’s like a second home for me,” he concluded before breaking up with emotion
“It’s nice to be here and to also see G [Thomas] arrive really well for the GC
tomorrow it’s a really intense day and we need to fight with the heart and with the head.”
riding in the Italian colours as national time trial champion
rode a near-peerless performance to lead at both checkpoints on the 31.2km course
though Pogačar sped through to beat him by four seconds at the first
flat roads north towards Lake Garda following that early checkpoint
putting the power down and increasing his average speed to almost 52kph at the second checkpoint
his four-second deficit to Pogačar turned into a 10-second advantage
one that would only increase on the final run to Desenzano del Garda
He’d beat the race leader to earn his first win since the mid-race time trial at the Vuelta a España last September
The time trial brings no change at the very top of the overall standings
with Pogačar still in pink and reigning supreme after 50 hours and nine seconds of racing
Thomas now lies second overall at 3:41 down
while Martínez is now third overall at 3:56
39 seconds up on fourth-placed Ben O’Connor (Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale)
Antonio Tiberi (Bahrain Victorious) holds his place at 5:17 down
while Arensman is up four places to sixth at 6:30 down
After a run of days for the sprinters and breakaway hopefuls
the Giro d’Italia returned to GC mode on Saturday for stage 14 and its second and final time trial – a 31.2km test against the clock in Lombardy
The stage would take the 153 remaining riders in the race would head to the shores of Lake Garda
tackling an almost entirely flat route out to the east between Castiglione delle Stiviere and Desenzano del Garda
with the highest point of the day coming at 159 metres above sea level and lowest coming at the finish 95 metres lower
With riders setting off in reverse GC order
it was no surprise to see time trial specialist Josef Cerny (Soudal-QuickStep) hit the top of the timing boards early on
the Czech rider was quickest of the earliest runners
He set the only time under 10 minutes at the first checkpoint and then laying down a benchmark of 36:58 at the finish line – a rare early rider to average over 50kph
Cerny’s time wouldn’t last long at the top
with Max Walscheid (Cofidis) speeding through 10 minutes later in a time of 36:50 and then Daan Hoole (Lidl-Trek) going nine seconds quicker soon after
who was sixth quickest over the flat section of the stage 7 time trial
was the next man to take over the hot seat
coming through 27 minutes after Cerny had finished to post a time of 36:32 at an average speed of 51.241kph
it was time for several of the big favourites for the stage win set out to start their ride
Former world time trial champion Tobias Foss was joined out on the road by his Ineos Grenadiers teammate
as well as Mikkel Bjerg (UAE Team Emirates)
The first checkpoint saw them shoot to the top of the standings
with Ganna’s time of 9:39 already 12 seconds up on Cerny’s leading time after just 7.8km
Foss’ 27:46 at the 23.2km second checkpoint would put him four seconds up on Affini’s leading time
That time would be blown away by the flying Ganna
as the Italian passed through in a time of 26:47 to clear his teammate by 59 seconds
Foss would eventually come to the line to briefly take over the hot seat
still four seconds up on Affini with a time of 36:28
though Ganna would blitz that time minutes later
He lay down a marker of 35:02 to go 1:26 up on Foss
a surely unbeatable time for the rest of the afternoon
dropping time and a place to slip behind Foss as he slotted into third place with a time of 36:30
It would take some time before another contender got out on the course
with Luke Plapp (Jayco-AlUla) and Magnus Sheffield (Ineos Grenadiers) the pick of the runners before the GC men got going
The Australian went third at the first two checkpoints
He’d improve on the final run to the line to move to second at 1:15 behind the Italian
crossing the first checkpoint in second just five seconds behind Ganna
The young American shed a further 34 seconds on the road to the second checkpoint
but his chances of securing that provisional second place evaporated as he crashed late on
Sheffield would cross the line down in seventh place
1:35 down on Ganna and sporting some nasty road rash down his right side to boot
Soon after Sheffield had drawn his ride to a close
it was time for the main contenders to set out on their efforts as the top 15 riders on GC – all separated by three minutes at the start ramp – got underway
Some of those riders – such as Esteban Chaves (Jayco-AlUla)
Domenico Pozzovivo (VF Group-Bardiani CSF-Faizanè)
and Jan Hirt (Soudal-QuickStep) – passed through the first checkpoint at over a minute down on Ganna
it was a different story as the Dutchman made a flying start to the stage
passing through that checkpoint in third place at 9:50
the only man between Antonio Tiberi (Bahrain Victorious) in fifth place and Sheffield in 39th to break the 10-minute mark there
He’d continue his impressive ride to go third at the second checkpoint and go even quicker in the final section to take provisional second
beating Plapp by 11 seconds with a time of 36:09
Tiberi also impressed to take sixth at the checkpoint with a time of 9:56
while the man 48 seconds above him on the GC
Ben O’Connor (Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale)
In the battle for second overall between former teammates Geraint Thomas (Ineos Grenadiers) and Dani Martínez (Bora-Hansgrohe) it was the Welshman who struck the first blow to put in a time of 9:50
taking 19 seconds off the Colombian and moving into provisional second place
as race leader Tadej Pogačar sped through the 7.8km marker at 9:35 – four seconds up on Ganna
the outsiders were coming in to finish their rides
with Arensman the big winner of the day and taking minutes on those lying ahead of him
Once the dust settled on the rides of those ahead of him – Einer Rubio (Movistar)
and Romain Bardet (DSM-Firmenich PostNL) – the Dutchman had comfortably jumped up from 10th overall into the top six
who started the day at 1:25 up on Arensman
The 22-year-old limited his losses to 12 seconds with a ride to provisional fourth and a time of 36:21 to keep hold of his placing
while one spot further ahead O’Connor put in a top ride too
The Australian sped home in fifth and a time of 36:27
Back at the second checkpoint after 23.2km
Thomas was flying into second place with a time of 27:34 to put him 32 seconds up on Martínez
was losing 18 seconds to O’Connor having started the day 59 seconds up on fourth place
Martínez had lost 31 seconds to Thomas and 20 to O’Connor
causing him to slip to third overall as Thomas jumped up to second place
a 14-second swing saw Pogačar cross the second checkpoint at 10 seconds down on Ganna
seemingly putting paid to his chances of taking the stage win and bringing some relief to the man in the hot seat
That relief was well-founded as Pogačar shed more time on the final run into Desenzano del Garda
eventually crossing the line 29 seconds down on Ganna
the only man within a minute of the stage winner
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Dani has reported from the world's top races
She has interviewed many of the sport's biggest stars
and her favourite races are the Giro d'Italia
Europe
here are the best spots on the continent for lakeside stays
From watersports to hikes and boat trips to world-renowned restaurants, Europe’s lakes truly have it all
Maybe it’s all the scenic beauty and the peace and quiet
but there is just something very special about a lake holiday.
RECOMMENDED:📍 Milan to Lake Como: the ultimate day trip⛵ The most beautiful lakes in the world🗺 The best city breaks in Europe🌎 The coolest neighbourhoods in the world
Photograph: ShutterstockTouching three of Italy’s regions – Lombardy
Trentino Alto Adige and Veneto – Lake Garda is Italy’s largest lake
a huge expanse of water offering Mediterranean vistas of lemons
olive groves and vineyards at the foot of the Alps
Its sheer size makes it the most diverse of the Italian Lakes; to the south
gentle hills are covered in olive groves and vineyards
and to the north the scenery becomes more dramatic
with villages wedged onto rocky shorelines and cliffs sticking out of deep blue waters
This is one of Italy’s premier destinations for water sports – sail
windsurf and kitesurf to your heart’s content.
EAT: For something a bit special, make a reservation at Peter Brunel’s (literally 1km from Lake Garda)
a Michelin-starred spot with Scandinavian influence
it manages to feel unpretentious – you can even expect a warm welcome by the chef himself
who seamlessly flits between the kitchen and the tables.
a spectacular stretch of road carved into the mountainside high above the water with sheer cliffs plummeting below
The road offers some of the most dramatic views of anywhere on Lake Garda
STAY: Run by the Briarava family, Locanda del Benaco is a stylish boutique hotel with a minimalist design
and there’s an excellent restaurant where Gianni and his son Federico rustle up seriously good seasonal dishes.
📍 Check out our local’s guide to Lake Garda
Photograph: Visit SaimaaLocated in southeast Finland
Lake Saimaa is a labyrinth of interconnected water bodies
with narrow straits and thousands of islands full of flora and fauna
while the endangered Saimaa ringed seal (of which around 400 remain) has adapted to the lake environment
making this the world’s only freshwater seal
with dense wooden forests full of mushrooms and berries and cosy wooden lakeshore cabins complete with a sauna and private jetty to fully embrace the country’s most loved ritual
EAT: At Uhkua
professional chef Ilkka and nature guide Asta provide a range of all-immersive culinary experiences
they put on an island dinner cooked on an open fire; in autumn you’ll scour the forest floor foraging for mushrooms
you can catch your own turbot on a snowshoe walk on ice.
DO: The Savonlinna Opera Festival is held annually in July in Olavinlinna Castle
the world’s northernmost medieval castle
STAY: For a relaxed break immersed in nature, try one of the Okkolan Lomamökit private cottages in the Puumala Archipelago
Each comes with its own private stretch of beach
Photograph: ShutterstockIn the Haute Savoie region of south-eastern France lies Lake Annecy
with turquoise waters and tons of outdoor activities
from canoeing to kayaking and paddle boarding
This is one of the world’s top destinations for paragliding
made up of a web of medieval streets and tangling canals (they don’t call it the ‘Venice of France’ for nothing).
EAT: A newcomer on the Annecy dining scene, Ravigote has already won plaudits for its homemade cuisine and top-quality ingredients sourced from local trusted producers
DO: One of the best ways to discover the lake is on two wheels
cycling 40-km or so along the perimeter route in about three hours
stopping off at beaches or refuelling for lunch at a traditional restaurant along the way
STAY: Right on the water in the heart of Annecy, Auberge Du Lyonnais offers a contemporary look and laidback vibes
with rooms decked out in shades of industrial grey and chocolate brown
EAT: Run by a father and daughter team, Seeblick in Hagnau is a breezy restaurant with seating on a panoramic lakeside terrace
Ingredients are sourced from Upper Swabia and the food has an international twist
DO: The Pfänderbahn and the Säntisbahn cable cars whisk you up the mountainside to offer some of the best lake and mountain views around
you’ll find walking trails and restaurants where you can sit back and soak up the panorama as you savour local specialities
STAY: Recent renovations at the historic lakefront Seehotel Am Kaiserstrand in Lochau have given the interiors a distinctly modern vibe
with a wellness centre with a heated swimming pool
Photograph: ShutterstockTucked away in landlocked Macedonia on the border with Albania
Lake Ohrid is a glittering deep sliver of blue
It’s set against a picturesque backdrop of mountains
offering jaw-dropping vistas and a decidedly laid back vibe that draws visitors seeking a slice of tranquillity well off the beaten path
The eponymous capital is home to a beautifully preserved medieval town
with steep lanes home to a plethora of ancient churches – the surrounding area once counted a whopping 365 of them
EAT: Facing the church of St. John Kaneo, Kaneo Letna Bavcha serves traditional Macedonian cuisine in a lovely lakefront setting
DO: Among the area’s most beautiful churches is the Sveti Naum Monastery
which sits majestically on a steep cliff a short walk from the Albanian border
See 19th century frescoes and majestic grounds
and post visit you can cool off with a swim at one of the sandy beaches below
STAY: Aleksandar Villa is a boutique hotel south of Ohrid with an open-air swimming pool nestled within the grounds
Plus you’re a skip and a hop away from the beach.
📍 Eat your way around North Macedonia
On the occasion of the centenary of his birth
Desenzano del Garda pays homage to Roy Lichtenstein
among the most important American artists of international Pop Art
the Castle is hosting from April 29 to July 16
2023 the exhibition Roy Lichtenstein: the Sixties and the history of international Pop art
organized by the Department of Culture and produced by MV Eventi.On display are sixty works by Lichtenstein and some of the main protagonists of the artistic renewal of the 1960s
“Pop culture,” says Culture Councillor Pietro Avanzi
“returns to fill with its colors and values the walls of our medieval castle going to enhance it once again: the works of Roy Lichtenstein represent a leap into the past of the 1960s that projects us within the international history of Pop Art
I am convinced that once again the public will respond greatly in the nearly three months of the exhibition’s display: it is no coincidence that we have chosen a global and world-renowned artist
as we are entering the height of the tourist season with many people coming from all over Europe
I thank the invaluable contribution of Matteo Vanzan
without whom all this would not have been possible.”
Roy Lichtenstein was an undisputed protagonist
of the return to figuration in the 1960s after the Informal season
His works draw on a collective imagination made up of comic strips
and Air Force pilots responding to the need to depersonalize the work of art from its most intimate meanings not being
“interested in divulging themes that teach people something
“The exhibition itinerary,” the curator explains
“is structured to offer an overview of Lichtenstein’s work and his famous painting technique
aims to associate artistic creation with an actual industrial product
of which we have a specimen on display in the exhibition
named after the 19th-century illustrator and printer Benjamin Henry Day who first introduced them
brought Lichtenstein instant recognition within the contemporary art system
making him one of the most beloved artists of the second half of the 20th century.”
The exhibition will feature some of his best-known works such as Crack
from 1963 used as a publicity poster to announce Lichtenstein’s exhibition at Leo Castelli Gallery
1987’s Drowing Girl published by MoMA New York and based on the DC Comic story Run for Love!
as well as his famous tributes to Pablo Picasso and Carlo Carrà with 1975’s The red horsemen
Also of great importance will be the emotional aspect of the exhibition
whose goal will be to transport the visitor inside a timeless era through the projection of films
documentaries such as Woodstock and a rich soundtrack made up of songs by the Beatles
“To complete the exhibition,” Vanzan concludes
“we wanted to pay tribute to some of the most important personalities in the art of the 1960s such as 1964 Venice Biennale Grand Prix winner Robert Rauschenberg
Jim Dine as well as a parenthesis due to both Nouveau Réalisme with Arman
Hours: Through May 31 Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m
From June 1 to July 16 Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m
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ShareSaveLifestyleDiningWhere To Eat And Drink Around Northern Italy's Lake GardaByLiza B. Zimmerman
He can otherwise be found down in Rome reporting for the Italian magazine The Internet Gourmet
He started his writing career three decades ago and has focused on both Medieval and ancient Roman cuisines
Desenzano del Garda and Pescheria del Garda are the two main stations on the train line from Milan
Both are quite small so there may not be many taxis
Ubers are few and far between here so asking your hotel for a pickup is not a bad idea
There are many excellent wine-growing regions that surround this lake
The town of Bardolino—which takes its name from its namesake wine—is one of the most beautiful and home to both great reds and whites
Bardolino is in the Veneto on the boarder of Lombardy
The Veneto side of the lake—to the East—has long been known for its soft, supple Bardolinos as well as bigger and more structured Amarones and Valpolicellas when you move inland
It is also the birthplace of one of Northern Italy’s most delicious
It is made from primarily Corvina grapes with a little Rondinella mixed in
which is produced in the Southern part of the lake
well-priced whites that guests are lucky to find on a wine list
which is the same grape used in the better-known Soave appellation
These wines tend to be unique because of the region’s soil
He added that the region's wines and its grapes tell the story of the ancient glaciers that molded Lake Garda
bringing lots of stones and minerals from the Alps to the area
along with the intense winds blowing from the lake—there have been a number of sailing mishaps on this lake—and from the nearby mountains tend to lend the typical fresh minerality found in the region’s wine
he thinks it is most likely that most of the region’s wine back in the old days was rosé
"The most ancient document that I found dealing with Chiaretto in our region dates back to 1806: it’s the edition printed in Verona of the Vocabolario della Crusca
which is considered to be the most important Italian dictionary."
Lake Garda is divided into three Italian regions: Veneto
which occupies the lake's small Northern shore
Bikes are readily available at most hotels and are a great way to see the region
both with water views and more low-key inland locations are abundant in almost all these small towns on the lake
Do your research as not all of them are stellar
which are very small tortellini as well as the minestra di castagne or chestnut soup
Guests can also change it up with a beer as the region is home to some great breweries
In terms of local olive oil he says that Paolo Bonomelli
is one of the best Italian producers of high quality olive oil
The region is also home to a number of food and wine festivals
the wine festival in Bardolino in October and the Palio del Chiaretto in May in Bardolino
There is also a special tortellini dinner for more than 1,000 people on the ancient bridge of Valeggio sul Mincio in June
He added that recently Bardolino was voted the happiest village in Italy by the Italian financial newspaper Il Sole 24 Ore. Let’s toast to that
The best destinations planned for a wonderful New Year's Eve on Lake Garda
Spending New Year's Eve on Lake Garda is an excellent option for both good food lovers and fun lovers
The most anticipated night of the year is almost upon us and whether you choose to spend it romantically as a couple or in the company of friends
you certainly won't be disappointed by the spectacular setting that this place has to offer
There will be various events that will come to life for this magnificent New Year's Eve on Lake Garda
there will be festively decorated villages
There will be private events in villas and castles to enjoy the best dinners prepared ad hoc to sanction the arrival of the new year
Experiencing New Year's Eve outdoors is certainly one of the best ways to fully enjoy all the events organized
Sirmione and Bardolino there will be no shortage of places ready to welcome you
but one of the most popular events to better enjoy the fantastic New Year's Eve on Lake Garda is certainly the cruise that leaves from Desenzano
precisely in Piazza Malvezzi that it is possible to spend the night under splendid fireworks
The last day of the year is certainly not to be considered a day like any other and this is why the local proposals will ensure that your New Year's Eve on Lake Garda is special
For lovers of discos there will be organized salsa and bachata evenings
Among the various venues in which to celebrate the new year
which allows you to purchase a single ticket which includes entry and full dinner
There are also numerous places that make reductions in the cost of the ticket for entry after midnight..
could be to regenerate yourself in one of the beautiful hotels with spas to enjoy beauty and thermal treatments in total relaxation
Spending New Year's Eve on Lake Garda brings together young people
One of the main cities is Desenzano which every year delights its tourists with a splendid fireworks display and open-air musical entertainment
a stage will be set up where international artists and singers will perform and where everyone can go wild on the dance floor under a starry sky
want to celebrate the new year in the name of love with their other half
can opt for an intimate candlelit dinner with a view of the lake or a boat ride with aperitif buffet and romantic dinner
It all takes place in Desenzano where the motor ship will sail in the lower lake returning at 2 am at the end of the party
The two restaurant rooms on the upper deck will be set up for the occasion and dinner will be served at the table
The upper deck will also host a band with live music that will make the evening unique and unforgettable
New Year's Eve brings with it different customs and traditions and your New Year's Eve on Lake Garda will not be outdone
a nice dip in the lake as a sign of luck and a good omen for the new year
All those who choose to celebrate the New Year on Lake Garda at Sirmione undoubtedly opt for one of the most sought-after destinations in all of Italy
This city offers countless contexts such as a walk along the lakefront
a visit to the medieval castle or during the day a visit to the caves of the poet Catullus to spend the holidays in a different and unforgettable way
Sirmione also excels for its particular New Year's Eve parties
All organized in the best discos in the area where Dj sets will keep you company with the best hits of the moment until the first light of dawn
If your intention is to say goodbye to the year that is going by in a fun way
you cannot give up spending your New Year's Eve on Lake Garda in the most famous amusement park in Italy: Gardaland
This option will offer you the possibility to spend a day among fun rides
Gardaland Magic Winter will be open from 3 December 2022 to 8 January 2023
This alternative will still allow you to have fun without giving up the dinner
so you will have the opportunity to celebrate New Year's Eve on Lake Garda choosing from the many restaurants that will organize various dinners and shows on the evening of the 31st
• New Year's Eve on Lake Garda between music and history: experience the magic that reigns in this fantastic city for the arrival of the new year
• Everything you need to know to experience a unique New Year's Eve on Lake Garda
• New Year's Eve on Lake Garda in Desenzano: all the solutions to enjoy the best dinner suited to your tastes
• New Year's Eve on Lake Garda in Bardolino: numerous events around the city to give you an unforgettable evening
• New Year's Eve on Lake Garda in Sirmione: spend an evening that is different from the usual
• New Year's Eve at Gardaland: an alternative day to celebrate the arrival of the new year in a different way
Through writing I tell you what I feel in my various trips around the Italy and I tell you about the places I visit