Mount Baldo and Lake Garda

Mount Baldo soars over 2000 meters above the lake and is the most spectacular of all the natural features around Lake Garda.

The view from the top is incredible and don’t worry you don’t have to climb all the way up. A very modern cable car leaves from Malcesine and it takes about ten minutes to get to the cable station at 1700 meters. The fact that the cable car rotates while ascending means you get to enjoy a 360 degree panorama.

Mount Baldo is known as the Garden of Europe for the rich variety of flora and fauna. A richer variety of plant species, from Alpine to Mediterranean, exists here than nearly anywhere else in Europe. The flowers are particularly spectacular during spring and early summer.

Cascata Varone

Right at the top of the lake near Riva del Garda is this 98 meter waterfall in a cave. It costs 5 Euros to get in but it is well worth it. The second observation point half way up the falls is particularly spectacular .

Parco Giardino Sigurtà

When you want to get away from it all and relax in one of the world’s most beautiful botanical gardens then come here. Situated in Valeggio sul Mincio a short distance from the lake this 50 hectare park is an oasis of tranquility and a very important botanical garden.

Best way to explore is on foot but if you have young children take the little train that follows an “Enchanted Trail” through the park. My young son loves it but even if you don’t have children it is still great fun and only costs €3 for the 35 minute ride.

Other ways of exploring are by bike or golf cart both of which can be hired. Bikes cost €4 and the golf carts cost €13. I am way too embarrassed to hire a golf cart but I suppose if you are really old or REALLY lazy it might be an idea.

Isola del Garda

A new addition to the list of best natural attractions is Isola del Garda. The island has only recently been opened to the public and only from May to September. The Borghese Cavazza family is the lucky lot who own the land and villa on the island.

The island is just offshore from the Rocca di Manerba which is, incidentally, a great place for views of the lake. Boats leave from most of the main ports and the boat trip is part of a comprehensive package that includes a two hour tour of the island and the villa. Also included is a tasting of some of the local wines and olive oil.

The early 19th century villa is magnificent and the gardens too are exquisite. Summer concerts held on the island and are well worth attending if you love music. The setting, combined with fabulous music, makes these evenings truly enchanting.

For boat and tour details and times click here .

For more great places in and around Lake Garda, Veneto and Venice Italy try a search below.

Return to the Venice and Veneto home page.

New! Comments