Halfway up the eastern coast, and the namesake of northern Italy’s Lake Garda, this town is the perfect destination for a natural retreat.
Located inside a wide horseshoe bay on its namesake lake, Garda has picturesque, colourful houses surrounded by natural beauty. Explore the tall, green hills behind, home to vineyards and Venetian merchants’ villas. Wander to the famous palace on the nearby peninsula or relax on the lake itself. Bring your hiking boots and a picnic basket to enjoy an idyllic summer afternoon.
Go on an adventure up Monte Luppia in search of prehistoric rock etchings, according to legend made by bored shepherds tending their flocks. Walk out along the Punta San Vigilio to see stunning views of the lake and the renowned villa of Agosto Brenzoni, which hosted royalty, including Tsar Alexander and the British royal family in the early 20th century. Just south of town are the ruins of the Rocca, said to have been the location Queen Adelaide fled so she could marry King Otto.
Return to town and relax with a gelato or aperitivoin the shade in front of the Palazzo dei Capitano, a pale yellow Venetian Gothic palace presiding over one of Garda Town’s busiest piazzas. Ramble through the streets of the Old Town until you find the stunning old Santa Maria Maggiore church, which was rebuilt in the 16th century. Rent a yacht, motorboat or kayak from the harbour and set off before the sun goes down beyond the hills on the other shore.
Drive to Garda in 25 minutes from the closest train station in Peschiera del Garda or from Verona, the closest international airport, in 30 minutes. Peschiera del Garda offers connections throughout Italy, including to Venice and Milan. Take a bus to Garda from Peschiera del Garda in 30 minutes. Rent a car in Peschiera del Garda to explore the surroundings or rely on the region’s extensive bus service.
For lingering views of Garda, follow the lakeside path that leads north to Torri del Benaco and be rewarded with stunning views as you turn back along the peninsula.
