Lake Garda is Italy's largest lake. It is located half way between Brescia and Verona, and between Venice and Milan. It - and its shoreline - are divided between Verona, Brescia, and Trentino.
It's a major tourist destination with grand hotels and modern apartments, swish restaurants and stylish bars.
During the summer months, visitors may enjoy a regatta of Venetian gondoliering. Every Saturday evening between late June and mid-August the race takes place in a different town around the lake all leading up to the glorious final in Venice in early September.
Lake Garda insider information
Enjoy the cypress trees and the stunning views at Punta di San Vigilio, which is about half way along the eastern shore on Lake Garda.
Take the cable car from Malcesine up to the top of Monte Baldo (1,980m high) to see the views. This area is known as “The Garden of Italy” and you can see why from the range of plants and vegetation there.
Sirmione is associated with the Roman poets Catullus and Vergil who sang its praises. It is a very popular village with visitors not only for the beautiful castle and vibrant life, but also for the health-giving properties of its spa which cures many ailments.