A weekend break in Lake Garda: discover the magic of rural Italy

A weekend break in Lake Garda: discover the magic of rural Italy

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Take a weekend break in Lake Garda for true pastoral bliss

Visitors to Italy often focus on the spectacular, historic cities or the gorgeous southern coasts - but they're missing one of the country's most stunning gems. Lake Garda, nestled in the north of Italy near the Dolomites, offers dramatic landscapes, outdoor adventures, and lots of things to keep foodies happy. Theme parks nearby are great things to do on a weekend retreat in Lake Garda - or for anyone who feels young at heart. With both natural beauty and endless adventures on offer, Lake Garda is a top destination for anyone in search of a break.

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Planning a weekend retreat in Lake Garda

Why should I go to Lake Garda for the weekend?

Lake Garda is one of Italy's best destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. During a trip to the lake, you can go hiking, rent mountain bikes, and try a number of fun outdoor activities. One of the best hiking trails to discover during your weekend break in Lake Garda is the Ponale Path, a stunning scenic route that is carved out of rock. It's a steep climb to the top, but you'll be rewarded with incredible views of the lake. Of course, fans of water sports will also find plenty to keep them occupied on a weekend break in Lake Garda. The lake stretches for an enormous 370 square kilometres, making it feel more like a sea - and there are activities to match. Sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and kitesurfing are all popular, and some daring visitors even scuba dive in the crystal clear waters, exploring sunken shipwrecks and discovering intriguing underwater statues.

Where should I stay during my weekend break in Lake Garda?

When you're looking for holiday lettings in Lake Garda, it's important to remember the sheer size of the lake. You'll have a very different experience depending on whether you stay on the lively southern shore or the more remote, wilder northern shore. In the south, towns like Bardolino and Desenzano are popular choices for weekend retreats in Lake Garda. Bardolino in particular is renowned as a foodie heaven, with some of the area's best restaurants and several food and wine festivals throughout the year. Another good southern choice is the medieval town of Sirmione, which has a romantic atmosphere that makes it popular with couples. In the north, Riva del Garda is a relaxing spa town that is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to disconnect completely.

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FAQs: Weekend Breaks & Getaways in Lake Garda

What's the best time of year to visit Lake Garda?

Lake Garda is at its busiest in the summer months, when it's popular with both Italians and foreigners. Spring and autumn are often considered the best times to visit. In spring, you can enjoy the gorgeous blooming flowers all around the lake, while autumn brings stunning colour-changing foliage. Lake Garda isn't particularly popular in winter, and many businesses are closed throughout the season. However, some people still visit, particularly as part of a larger trip to the Dolomites for snow sports.

How should I get to Lake Garda?

The closest airport to Lake Garda is Verona-Villafranca (VRN). It's only about 15 kilometres from the southern shore of the lake; you can finish your journey by bus, train or taxi, according to your preference. Brescia-Montichiari Airport (VBS) is also conveniently located just 30 kilometres away, and has a bus service to the lake. Some visitors fly into Milan, but the journey of 100 kilometres from the airport to the lake may cut into your precious weekend away.

How can I travel around Lake Garda?

There are public buses running along the shores of Lake Garda, as well as trains that connect the lake's biggest towns to cities like Verona and Brescia. However, the most enjoyable way to get around Lake Garda is by ferry. Ferries run regularly between towns like Malcesine, Riva del Garda, and Desenzano, and give you the chance to enjoy gorgeous views from the lake as you travel from one town to another.

What annual events are worth seeing in Lake Garda?

Italy is, of course, famous for food and drink, and many of the annual events around Lake Garda celebrate the gastronomy of the region. There's a rosé wine festival, Palio del Chiaretto, at the end of May; it features dragon boat races and wine tastings. The Bardolino Grape and Wine Festival takes place in October. Autumn also sees the Tignale Truffle Festival, which usually runs from the last week of September until the first week of October, and attracts foodies from across Europe.

What food and drink should I try in Lake Garda?

The cuisine of Lake Garda is a celebration of the freshest local products. Bigoli pasta, prepared simply and tossed with small fishes from the lake, is a popular dish on the Venetian shore. Freshwater fish is also often used in risotto dishes around Lake Garda; risotto with tench, or tinca in Italian, is a particular delicacy. Cheese lovers should definitely try polenta carbonèra, a local preparation of polenta that features not one, but three types of tasty, gooey cheese.