Travel Guides: All Countries / Europe / Italy / Italian Lakes
 |  | Destination Guide : Italian Lakes |
|
| | | Spectacular scenery |  | Why go on holiday to the Italian Lakes?
For spectacular scenery where pretty villages and elegant villas nestle along the steep slopes of the lakeside. For rest and relaxation, cafe life and waterside dining on fine foods. And, for the more energetic, a host of water sports.
How much does it cost?
Costs vary but as a rough guide, a seven-night package to Lake Garda including flights and half board accommodation costs from £350. There are also several campsites in the Lakes area which are good for families. Flights to Milan from around £120 return.
When should I go?
Spring can be lovely but may be a bit risky if you want guaranteed good weather - if so, June to September is your best bet.
The terrain is gorgeous but the mountains can produce a lot of cloud and therefore rain, though this also means the lakes are shielded from the extremes of winter weather.
July and August can be very crowded on all the major lakes, Garda, Como and Maggiore.
|
|
|
|
| | | Take to the water | | What should I do when I'm there?
The best way to explore any of the lakes is to hop on a steamer which will carry you sedately from one resort to another.
For example, from Malcesine on Lake Garda you can nip directly to tiny Limone on the opposite shore or take a longer cruise up to Riva, nestling under the mighty Dolomites.
If you fancy a day away from the lakes, Verona, Venice, Milan and St Moritz are possible day excursions, depending which lake you're staying on.
Which lake should I choose?
They're all good. Maggiore's shoreline tends to be flatter and less spectacular than Garda. Its most popular resort is Stresa, with its narrow streets and terracotta tiled roofs and views across to the Borromean islands.
Como has inspired poets and artists down the centuries - head for picturesque Bellagio or the larger Menaggio.
On Lake Garda, Riva is bustling, Sirmione is relaxed and Malcesine is small and friendly.
What are the sightseeing highlights?
The lakes are strewn with medieval castles and elegant villas dating back to the 18th century. Cable cars will take you up to magnificent vantage points for great lake views - try Monte Baldo above Malcesine or Monte Mottarone at Stresa.
There are some gorgeous gardens to see - visit those at the 17th century Palazzo Borromeo on the Isolo Bella, one of the tiny islands on Lake Maggiore, or see Italy's tallest palm trees on Isola Madre, which also houses an 18th century palace.
|
|
|
|
|
| | | Stylish leather goods | | Where's good for nightlife?
The Lakes aren't really the place to go for a rave-up - it's all a lot more sedate. Most hotels are small, but the large ones may organise their own entertainment. Otherwise, enjoy strolling around the lakeside, al fresco dining or a sunset lake cruise.
What's the food like?
At the cheaper end of the market, there's plenty of good pizza and pasta but, for a little more, enjoy good fish dishes. Ice cream is tops as in most of Italy.
The lakes' proximity to Switzerland and Austria means some culinary influences creeping in, like smoked meats and noodle soup. Bardolino on Lake Garda is famous for its wine and holds two major wine festivals in June and September.
What should I buy?
Leather goods are a good buy - there are stylish shoes, bags, belts, wallets and gloves. Lace and embroidery are also popular. Explore small galleries away from the main streets where you may snap up a souvenir in the form of a local painting or pottery.
What is there for children to do?
Not a lot aside from swimming and watersports. Many larger hotels may offer a children's pool. The lakes are a good location for families with undemanding children, but in general the region attracts honeymooners, couples and senior citizens.
Tourist office
Italian State Tourist Board, 1 Princes St, London W1R 8AY. Tel. 020 7408 1254. Brochure line: 09001 600 280 (calls cost 60p per minute).
|
|
|
|
|
| | Available rental properties in Italian Lakes |
|
| |  | | Via Trabucco
2 bedroom, 2 shower room town apartment in the heart of Salo', seconds walk from the lakefront and its restaurants, designer shops and bars.
|  | | Bogliaco Golf Studio, Gargnano, Lake Garda
Recently renovated studio apartment in small and exclusive residence. With swimming pool and views over Lake Garda, the residence also overlooks the w
|  | | Casetta degli Ulivi, Tignale, Lake Garda
Beautiful villa near Limone, surrounded by parkland, olive trees and lemon groves. Situated in one of the most beautiful bays of Lake Garda, the villa has direct access to the beach!
|  | | Torre 2 bedroom apartment with Patio
Luxury apartment in beautiful villa. Wonderful peaceful location with Swimming Pool, Air Conditioning, Private patio and a short stroll from the village centre and lake.
|  | | Casa Daniela
Musignano is a quiet carless mountain village situated at 800 m. above Maccagno near Lake Maggoire. 4 km higher up you wil find Lago Delio which is a
| | Click here for more properties... |
|
|
|
|
|
|
