Lake Garda, also known as Benaco, is Italy’s largest lake. Its lakeside vegetation ranges from olive trees and cypresses to lemon trees, palms, oleanders and orange trees. In the south, moraine hills surround the lake; they were formed as the glaciers retreated. Alongside trails and historic sites, the contrasting landscapes are among the things to discover around the lake.
Gardens, Villas and Different Eras
Isola del Garda lies on the Brescia side of Lake Garda. Italian terraces and gardens descend all the way to the water. Among the native, exotic and rare plants stands a villa in the Venetian neo-Gothic style, designed by Luigi Rovelli in the early 20th century.
The Vittoriale degli Italiani is located near Gardone Riviera, on the shore of Lake Garda. Gabriele d’Annunzio created the complex from 1921 onwards; it includes buildings, paths, squares, an open-air theatre, gardens and waterways. The Vittoriale is a foundation open to the public. As public access conditions may change, check them before your visit.
The Roman villa known as the Grotte di Catullo offers a different perspective on the past. Located near Sirmione, it dates from the late 1st century BC to the early 1st century AD. The two sites thus represent different historical periods: a Roman villa at one, and a complex created from 1921 onwards at the other.
Trails with Different Features
The Funivia Malcesine–Monte Baldo runs from Malcesine to Monte Baldo; the journey takes about 20 minutes, and the return trip takes the same amount of time. Operating times vary by season, so check the latest departures before your trip. Hiking around Lake Garda also includes trails on Monte Baldo with panoramic views of the lake.
The Sentiero Busatte–Tempesta is about 4 km long and includes almost 400 iron steps above Lake Garda. It crosses the ridges of Corno di Bò and Salt de la Cavra through landscapes notable for their geology, flora and natural features. The trail length and number of steps provide specific guidance; conditions and access may change, so check locally before setting out.
The Sentiero del Ponale has different features: this alpine trail leads to the Monte Oro district in Riva del Garda and can also be walked in the opposite direction from Riva. If the trail requires your attention, checking current conditions is part of your preparation. The Sentiero delle Tracce, meanwhile, runs through the Gardesana Occidentale Regional Forest in the municipality of Tremosine and offers the opportunity to observe animal tracks. The Trekking delle Fortezze dell’Imperatore comprises trails dedicated to the history of the First World War.
Cycling Routes and Regional Specialities
Cyclists will also find different routes to follow: the Ciclopedonale Lago di Garda runs along the north shore and connects Riva and Torbole with the Adige Valley cycle path. In total, Lake Garda has more than 1,000 kilometres of signposted cycle routes for all ability levels.
In Parco Alto Garda Bresciano, the Strada del Formaggio is marked out as a route combining food and nature. Lake Garda olive oil is considered light and fruity, rich in chlorophyll, spicy and harmonious. Its long tradition is linked to the microclimate, which allows it to be produced at an exceptionally northerly latitude. In Garda Trentino, the microclimate also favours winemaking: the typical Trentino white grape Nosiola produces a delicate wine with slightly floral and herbaceous aromas. It pairs well with light starters and fried or oven-baked lake fish, such as trout or char.
More Discoveries in the Area
Near Castelnuovo del Garda, Gardaland SEA LIFE Aquarium displays more than 5,000 marine animals from 100 different species in 13 themed areas. LEGOLAND Water Park Gardaland combines interactive LEGO building areas with swimming pools, slides, water cannons and water games. Facilities and operating details may change; check the latest information before your visit.
When choosing your holiday apartment, these themes can help you decide where to stay: would you like to focus mainly on historic sites, trails, cycling or regional products? The destinations described are in different towns and areas. Choose accordingly, based on the visits you plan to make.
Discover more destinations: Verona, Rovigo, Treviso, Venice, Padua, Vicenza, Belluno.
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