The Alpine Beauty of Lake Garda

Halfway between Venice and Milan in northern Italy is Lake Garda. The largest lake in the country, it is also a popular resort area known for its Alpine beauty, water and numerous outdoor activities. The area is a major tourist destination for luxury or exclusive travelers.

The most popular town for travelers to Lake Garda is the ancient town of Sirmione. Home to popular spa centers and complexes, the town has also developed a number of tourist spots for shopping and dining as well as several choice hotels and apartment accommodation. The town is also home to Scaliger Castle, entered by a small wooden drawbridge, and today housing a museum. Built by the noble Scaliger family who were Lords of Verona it has served both as residential palace and family stronghold as well as warehouse, school and temporary housing.

Another popular destination in the Lake Garda area is the castle town of Malcesine. Here guests will find a charming and remarkably well-kept historic village. Above the town sits yet another Castle Scaligeri. This one boasts fourteenth century fortifications and a medieval tower. The mountains that surround the area are crowned by Montebaldo, which is a popular hiking and mountain biking destination. The view from the top or peak of Montebaldo can also be reached by cable car and gives a stunning view of the entire area, including the lake, castle and village in the valley below.

Another incredibly picturesque resort town exists at the northern end of Lake Garda - Torbole. Here geography lends a hand in making the town a popular outdoor activities destination. The town sits both at the foot of Mount Baldo, at the mouth of the River Scarca and on the shore of the vast lake. The prevailing winds bring many sailors and windsurfers who enjoy the safety of this freshwater playground. The constant and cool Alpine breezes also keep many of the hikers and casual walkers cool and comfortable as they wind their way up and down the rugged paths and ancient streets. In the old part of the town is the Saint Andrea church, built around 1175 it is beloved of the village and a well tended example of the period.

A final note about the area is in regard to the cuisine. The Lake Garda area is home to many unique combinations of language and culture. There are pockets of German speaking peoples, native to the nearby Austrian Alps. There is a great deal of 'fusion' cuisine that has resulted from the unique geography and the naturally occurring food sources.

The Lake Garda area is popular year round with Italians as well as foreign travelers and it is advised that reservations be made well in advance.

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