24 hours in Lake Garda
Considering jetting off to the chic shores of Lake Garda? We don’t blame you. We spoke to our Riviera Italy experts to get their insights into how to spend 24 hours in Lake Garda to get the most of this elegant destination.
Nestled between the dramatic peaks of the Alps and the rolling plains of Northern Italy, Lake Garda is not just Italy’s largest lake, it’s a microcosm of Mediterranean magic and Alpine majesty. Whether drawn by the lure of quaint villages, the call of the windswept waters, or simply the promise of a bowl of sublime spaghetti alle vongole by the shore, Lake Garda beckons with a charm that’s hard to resist. So don’t!
Morning
It’s no surprise that the Italian Lakes, so reminiscent of the Golden Age of travel, top many a pleasure-seeker’s wish list. Here, in the time it takes the earth to spin once, you can whirl through a mini odyssey of culture, cuisine, and spinetingling natural beauty. Kick-start your morning with an espresso shot (strong enough to keep you awake all day be warned) and take to the cobbled streets of Malcesine. This is where medieval architecture meets a boutique-shopper’s paradise. Next, it’s an exhilarating cable car ride up Monte Baldo to drink in the breathtaking panorama over the lake and rugged mountains beyond.
Afternoon
By midday, board a ferry to Garda Town, to reflect on the serene beauty of the place – or perhaps a dip in its tranquil waters. Once there, indulge in a lunch of local specialities – freshly caught perch, complemented by a glass or two of zesty local Lugana wine. Post-lunch, embrace the leisurely pace of lake life with a boat ride, because nothing says holiday quite like commandeering your own vessel with absolutely no destination in mind! As afternoon wanes, find yourself in Sirmione, truly the jewel of the lake. The ancient ruins of the Grotte di Catullo offer the perfect Roman backdrop for taking you back in time. And don’t forget that all-important afternoon gelato as you muse on history from a bygone era.
Evening
Conclude your visit in Riva del Garda where the mountains dip their toes in the water. The winds here are perfect for a twilight sail, or if you’re less nautically inclined, an Aperol spritz by the shore as the sun sets might sound more inviting. Dinner in Riva is all about the pasta – each dish infused with Alpine and Mediterranean influences. Imagine the serene soundtrack of waves lapping at the shore as you twirl your fork into some tagliatelle, slick with locally pressed olive oil, or some pappardelle smothered in trout ragu, fresh from the lake. Sounds like a recipe for holiday happiness to us.