Stunning scenery and quaint villages

To start try an excursion on one of the catamarans or steamers that regularly travel up and down the lake – get on board at Sirmione or Gardone Riviera for example. The views of the small towns, the snow capped mountains and the numerous gorgeous villas are captivating.

It is quite possible and highly recommended to take a day trip to Venice or Verona to marvel at the beauty of both these cities. The Arena di Verona is the home of the annual opera festival which in 2008 runs from 20 June – 31 August. Performances will include Aida, Tosca, Nabucco, Carmen, Rigoletto and Romeo and Juliet. Each of our hotels will gladly reserve your seats for an evening in this enormous 1st Century amphitheatre.

Fun for all the family can be had at Gardaland, located just east of Peschiera. Gardaland is an enormous amusement park with a huge range of fun activities for all the family including jungle rapids, a Wild West set and The Valley of the Kings and so much more.

Eating well and enjoying the superb local wines including Soave and Bardolino is of course a joy. Local specialities including olives, olive oil, honey and excellent cheeses. There are many very good restaurants in all our chosen resorts.

On our first visit to Lake Garda we selected just 3 resorts with the standard of hotels and facilities we expect for our clients. (We avoided the more mass market spots).

Gardone Riviera

Gardone Riviera is the oldest of the resorts with a history of attracting visitors for nearly 100 years. Sitting right on the edge of the lake opposite the Isola di Garda, attractions include concerts, musical festivals and the Botanical Gardens with over 2000 plants and sculptures and other works of several contemporary artists. Il Vittoriale was the Art Deco home of the poet Gabriele d'Annunzio, the stunning gardens and the treasures within the citadel make for a fascinating visit.

Salo

Salo is a very pretty elegant town of terracotta tiled roofs and pastel painted houses, narrow streets and alleys with excellent restaurants and shops. It was here in 1943 that Mussolini established his short lived Republic. The cathedral is very beautiful and an evening stroll along the lakeside is a delight.

Sirmione

Sirmione stands at the tip of a peninsula pointing directly up Lake Garda with the lake on 3 sides.The imposing medieval castle Rocca Scaligera guards the entrance to this town of tiny narrow streets, thronged with people shopping, dining, admiring the lovely buildings and views. We have chosen a very secluded hotel here. Only vehicles of locals or hotel guests may enter Sirmione and the water around is very important for wildlife.

Car hire

A hire car is a wonderful way to explore this enchanting region, to access golf clubs and country restaurants. Can we arrange this for you?

Local best buys: Olives, olive oil, local wine and cheeses and of course Italian fashion.