The serene Lake Garda is a popular holiday location in northern Italy. The saturated colors of its waters and being the largest lake in the whole of Italy, it is no wonder that it draws tourists and locals alike. Its shorelines are divided between the provinces of Verona, Brescia, and Trentino and it is nestled right on the edge of the famous Dolomites. There are hundreds of things to do, see, and experience in and around the lake itself so be sure to download the Lake Garda Travel Guide and Offline Map to guide you on your visit the majestic Lago di Garda.
1. Sirmione and Castello Scaligeri
Reaching out into the lake from its Southern short is a picturesque little town called Sirmoine. You enter the town by crossing a moat onto a drawbridge and into the forecourt of the castle. Its fortress, Castello Sacaligeri, is completely surrounded by water and was constructed in the 12th century as a part of Verona's defensive network against Milan. Tour the restored interiors of the fortress and enjoy a scenic, panoramic view of Lake Garda and the entire town by climbing up the tower.
2. Arco
At the northern end of Lake Garda and amidst the majestic rugged mountains and small lakes lies an old town that sits atop a cliff called Arco. Before you reach the town a dramatic waterfall that has carved a corkscrew-shaped gorge as it drops from a glacial lake above will greet you. Its mild climate is the perfect place for farms and orchards to flourish. Arboreto di Arco a promenade planted in the 1800's is filled with trees from around the world. And if you aren't too scared of heights, climb up to the Castello di Arco on a cliff high above.
3. Vittoriale d'Italia
Known for his eccentric personality, it comes to no surprise that the poet Gabriele d'Annunzio's Art Deco villa and extensive grounds would be equally eccentric. There's much see here, and you can choose from several ticket and tour options. See his coffin-shaped bed, indigo bathroom suite, statuary, and other unusual tastes in decor. You can choose from three options from the basic house tour to an in-depth tour into his colorful private life, and one that features his military exploits.
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