Lago di Garda, Italia - 6 giorni di divertimento ed esplorazione (Lake Garda, Italy - 6 days of fun and exploration)

“How beautiful is sunset when the glow Of Heaven descends upon a land like thee, Thou Paradise of exiles, Italy!” – Percy Bysshe Shelley

“I love places that have an incredible history. I love the Italian way of life. I love the food. I love the people. I love the attitudes of Italians.” – Elton John

On a beautiful September day in Peshiera del Garda, Italy, we embarked on a delightful journey from our hotel into the charming old town. There, we indulged in a delightful pizza and drinks, setting the stage for an evening of wine and exquisite cuisine at our hotel, the Garda Hotel. Nestled in the province of Verona, Veneto, Italy, Peschiera del Garda is a town that boasts a fortress perched on an island at the river Mincio’s outlet from Lake Garda. The town’s walls, encircling it, are a testament to the grandeur of Venetian defensive systems, which have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since July 9, 2017. (Wikipedia)

On the second day, we rode bicycles from our hotel and cycled along the lake to the town of Lazise. The enjoyable bike ride and company were fantastic, and there was so much to see in this picturesque lakeside town. Apparently, it’s the 12th most visited place in Italy, and we witnessed its charm when we explored the old town. It was bustling on a Wednesday afternoon. The town exuded beauty, culture, and delicious food and drink.

On our third day, we embarked on a boat ride around the picturesque Lake. I indulged in a refreshing plunge into the lake, while my companions enjoyed the scenic beauty. As the day drew to a close, we witnessed a breathtaking sunset in Peshiera del Garda. The lake, the second largest in Italy, is surrounded by charming towns that offer a delightful array of culinary delights, including fresh fish, delectable pasta, and exquisite wines. These towns also boast stunning landscapes, attract tourists, and provide ample opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation.

On the fourth day, we cycled back to Lazise for an incredible lunch. Then, we embarked on a ‘Wine Tasting in the Historical Center of Lazise’ at the ZF4 Società Agricola Winery. Our host, Laura, one of the four siblings who own the winery, led us through a phenomenal wine tasting experience. We were also provided with a full charcuterie board to complement the wine. After learning about the winery and the family history, we ended up purchasing two bottles of wine. This tour, available on Viator, is highly recommended for wine enthusiasts and anyone visiting the area. On our bike ride back to our hotel, we were treated to another breathtaking sunset.

On day 5, we returned to Lazise by bike to learn how to make pasta. We attended an incredible Viator cooking class called “Cooking Class: Fresh Pasta Course with Wines at Lake Garda.” It wasn’t just about making pasta; we also got to savor the dishes we created and enjoy delicious local wines. The pasta was absolutely delectable, and I can’t wait to get the recipes. Of course, I might have to visit our neighborhood Italian store to procure the necessary ingredients.

On our last full day in Italy, we took the train to Verona and embarked on a walking tour. However, I must warn you that this tour is not recommended due to its lengthy and slow pace. Despite this, we managed to catch a glimpse of the historic Arena di Verona and made a stop at Juliet’s balcony, where tourists and locals alike touch the bronze breast of Juliet for good luck. To conclude our day, we took the cable car to the city’s top for breathtaking views before heading back to Peshiera del Garda to pack our bags for home.

Top 5 recommendations for Lago di Garda:

1. If you’re a cyclist, ENJOY Garda Hotel is the place to stay. You can borrow bicycles for free every day while you’re there, and they even host cycling tours and cycling vacations. However, If you prefer more action, consider staying in Lazise. They offer a variety of activities and tours to enjoy.

   
   

2. Verona was worth a day trip, but it was very crowded. If you decide to visit, I recommend researching tours in advance.

3. The weather in mid-September was absolutely stunning. I’m not sure if it’s like that every year, but if we return, it’s likely to be around the same time.

4. We unfortunately experienced a train strike in Italy again. It’s a frequent event, but we asked about the details and our train (during rush hour) was still running. Thank goodness! Make sure you check the details of the strike, as your train may still be in operation.

5. We also took the FLIX bus from Verona to Karlsruhe, Germany. It was supposed to be a 10-hour bus ride, but it ended up being 12+ hours. Unless you’re on a very tight budget, I recommend other means of travel.