Natural beauty is impossible to beat – Italian natural beauty is something else!
Lake Garda is famous for nature, sophistication and relaxation. It certainly is all of the above and more, yet is becoming increasingly accessible to all, with many small resorts popping up.
You might have pound signs popping up in front of your eyes at the mere mention of a holiday on Lake Garda, however you might be surprised, with many cheap flights over to Milan. From there you can hire a car to get the most out of your time away, or use the plentiful public transport to get around. The lakes on the south bank are around a two and a half hour drive away, so you’ll be wanting plenty of rest before you head off on your Italian adventure. A great way to do this, and start your holiday a night early, is by pre-booking a night at the airport, such as one of the Heathrow Airport hotels for cheap flights out of the capital, or Manchester Airport hotels, if you’re flying more regionally. Whichever airport you decide on, you’ll find a range of hotels to suit your budget.
Lake Garda is a natural wonder, Italy’s largest lake and surrounded by mountains, stunning flora and fauna, which changes colour depending on the season, and scents to take your breath away. It’s a fantastic choice of holiday for something a little different, and it’s easy to make a base in one of the resorts, or go down the route of a touring holiday for a little bit of everything. Couples will love the romantic setting, and it’s also a good choice for families wanting to kick back and relax in nature.
Riva is a good choice of resort for families, as it has plenty of variety, as well as shopping for those who love a bit of retail therapy, just like me! If you’re wanting to splurge, head to the main resorts, with Desenzano one for a your shopping hit. The main resorts all have markets, and I’d recommend a wander around one for a few bargains to take home.
Summer holidays of course mean the beach, and a favourite of mine is Toscolano, which is wide, sweeping and a fantastic choice for a day’s splashing. If you’re into your culture and history, Salo is for you, with a beautiful Gothic church to explore, and museums too.
It’s too hard to list everything Lake Garda has to offer, but think nature, waterfalls, beaches, walking, mountains, green fields, water-sports, shopping, the wind in your hair and fresh, fresh air, and you won’t be far wrong.
You might be wondering what there is to do at night, but the resorts generally have plenty in the way of night-life, although it’s never going to be a clubbing heaven. The pace of life is slow and chilled-out, however Desenzano does have a lively scene, which you should check out if you want to dance.
Of course, this being Italy, we’re talking fantastic food, and the seafood around this part of the country is particularly delicious and fresh. In short, nobody will go hungry!
As you can see, a holiday on Lake Garda is varied and outdoorsy.
Nature, relaxation and a warm Italian welcome – life is good on Lake Garda.