A day at Lake Garda
Lake Garda, or Benaco, is thethe largest of the Italian lakes. To the south, it is surrounded by moraine hills left behind by the retreating ice and, in the highest and narrowest part to the north, it is enveloped by high mountain chains that give it the shape of a fjord, which, by protecting it, make its climate particularly mild and Mediterranean.
The mild climate allows for the growth of a rich vegetation consisting mainly of olive trees, palm trees, cypresses, lemon trees, oleanders and orange trees that provide a backdrop to interesting historical and cultural testimonies scattered throughout its territory. Along the banks stand picturesque villages and beautiful shores that also attract visitors who love a holiday of relaxation, sport and fun. In fact, Lake Garda, with its deep blue waters of mild temperatures and the vastness of its horizons, is at times reminiscent of a sea set between the Alps and the Po Valley. Focusing on the southern part of the lake, characterised by the gentleness of its slopes and the breadth of its landscapes, we have selected a few places or attractions that should not be missed:
The Scaliger Castle of SirmioneLocated at the access point to the historic centre, the Scaliger Castle of Sirmione is a rare example of a lake fortification and one of the most spectacular and best-preserved in Italy. Built in the second half of the 14th century, the castle takes its name from the Scala family that ruled over Verona and its territory between the 13th and 14th centuries. In addition to the crenellated walls, high towers and a drawbridge connecting it to the mainland, an interesting feature is the Darsena, still in a perfect state of preservation, which has been open to the public since 2018.
The Grottoes of Catullus - Sirmione: The Grotte di Catullo are part of an archaeological area containing the remains of one of the largest Roman residential villas in northern Italy. The name derives from the Renaissance, a period when the various structures that made up the villa, covered in vegetation, resembled natural cavities. The reference to Catullus, on the other hand, is due to the fact that the famous Latin poet sang Sirmione as the jewel among all peninsulas. The complex is located on the tip of the Sirmione peninsula in an exceptional panoramic position, dominating the lake basin. The area occupied by the villa corresponds to approximately two hectares and is surrounded by a historic olive grove with over 1,500 trees. Inside there is a small but significant museum that, in addition to collecting various archaeological artefacts related to the villa, also preserves other Roman artefacts from Sirmione and the surrounding areas.
Garda Island: is the largest island in the lake of the same name. It lies just over 200 metres off Capo San Fermo and is still inhabited by its owners, the Cavazza family. The most fascinating element of the island is certainly the villa in Venetian neo-Gothic style, designed by architect Luigi Rovelli in the early 20th century. At the foot of the villa, the imposing terraces and Italian-style gardens that descend gradually towards the lake are also worth a visit. The rest of the island is a large park rich in vegetation with local, exotic and rare plants. As it is a private island, visits to the public are only allowed by the owners using transport and private guides.
The Vittoriale degli italiani: more commonly known as the 'Vittoriale', is a monumental complex built by the famous poet, journalist and patriot from Abruzzo Gabriele D'Annunzio starting in 1921 in the municipality of Gardone Riviera. D'Annunzio chose this location on the Brescian shore of Lake Garda because after a stay there, he fell in love with it and decided to erect a reign of memory of his life and the Italian people. It is not just a house-museum, but a great little world. Inside, besides the house, there are gardens, streets, squares, waterways and even an amphitheatre. The style of the villa is eclectic; each area manages to convey one of the many facets of the poet's personality and holds a grand collection of memorabilia: works of art, books, relics, sculptures and more. When you feel you have been amazed enough, the Vittoriale manages to surprise again with an authentic SVA aircraft, the Puglia military ship positioned in the gardens, and a submarine dating back to the First World War.
