Lake Garda

Lake Garda ticks all the boxes when it comes to the best of both worlds style of destination. There are so many options to go, see and do or simply relax by the pool if you so wish.

Our chosen accommodation was the Residence Il Sogno in Desenzano, which is located approx. 20 mins from Verona airport on the south of the lake. We chose this residence as we opted for an apartment this year. The Residence provided all the necessary amenities we required including a wonderful Lake view. We enjoyed breakfast al fresco each morning on our balcony with stunning views. This gave us the option to enjoy lunch and dinner sampling local restaurants during the day and evening. The residence is 5 minutes’ walk from the town itself, very peaceful and offers a lovely pool area.

Desenzano is a beautiful town directly on the lake and offers a huge choice of wonderful restaurants, cafes, boutique shops and bars. One of the bigger towns this side of the lake yet it felt calm and relaxing although there was a lovely buzz all day and evening.

We enjoyed the famous markets that travel around the lake every day and Desenzano markets are one of the best. Even my husband enjoyed them so that speaks volumes. The markets are in Desenzano every Tuesday.

During our time in Lake Garda, we took the train to Peschiera. Equally a beautiful town in its own way and offers a vibrant and bustling feel. Immensely popular with families due to the location of the resorts such as Bella Italia and Altomincio and proximity to the airport. Peschiera has a Venice vibe as it is surrounded by water and holds an impressive fortress.

Our next visit was to Sirmione which we travelled to by ferry. Simply stunning, Sirmione, I will admit was my favourite. This town is so pretty with small, cobbled streets full of inviting shops and restaurants. We found the east side of Sirmione offers peaceful walks along the coast, with small beaches along the way. There is a stunning park (Maria Callas) to enjoy tranquility with flora and fauna. The main hub of Sirmione is bustling during the day with visitors. I particularly liked the Thermal Aquarium here and would love to return to sample it. Completely surrounded by the lake so each side will impress with amazing views. The town itself is pedestrianised. There are hotels inside the gates of Sirmione, however there are a number of great hotels within 10-20 minutes’ walk outside of the main gate.

Next day we ventured on the ferry again to the town of Garda. I describe Garda as being quaint, the beauty of this side of the lake is very evident here. Perfectly manicured promenade full of beautiful flora. Plenty of restaurants along the promenade with fabulous lake views and scenery. Gorgeous little back streets with beautiful shops. I will point out I found Garda town to be an excellent choice for accessibility due to the flat terrain of the town and pavings for a wheelchair, buggy or walking aid. The ferry from Garda will take you to the town’s north of the lake, so it really is a viable choice to sample both north and south. I absolutely loved the peaceful, relaxing ambience of Garda and is a firm favourite now too.

From the south of the lake, you can take day trips to Verona, Venice, or Milan by train. To visit the north of the Lake, i.e., Riva, Limone and Malcesine you can avail of the ferry by changing at Garda or best option would be to hire a car.

Bicycle hire is hugely popular in Lake Garda, most hotels and residences will provide them for rental. Maybe do a little cycling before you go to warm up the muscles.

Each town in Lake Garda is different yet equally beautiful in their own way and this is a destination you could return to repeatedly.

I would recommend Lake Garda for everyone, couples, families, solo travel, groups, friends, and honeymoons.

Whether you like a relaxing, walking, cycling, sightseeing, shopping, dining style of holiday, Lake Garda offers it all.

A list of the most popular towns in Lake Garda are; Peschiera Del Garda, Desenzano Del Garda, Sirmione, Bardolino, Garda, Riva, Malcesine, Limone, Tobole.

Would you like to know about Lake Garda? If so, please do not hesitate to contact me as I will be extremely happy to recommend the perfect option for you.