Holiday To THE ITALIAN LAKES...STUNNINGLY BEAUTIFUL
The Italian Lakes are a spectacular natural wonder which have attracted visitors since the Roman times.
- Culture & Ambience
- Stunning Scenery
- Unforgettable!
Situated in Northern Italy these glacial lakes were formed at the end of the last ice age and boast a mild climate with awe inspiring views of the Alps. There are more than 1200 lakes, so if your preference isn’t listed we can still make a bespoke holiday for you or create a multi-centre Italian holiday.
Start your Italian lakes holiday:
WHICH ITALIAN LAKE SHOULD I VISIT?
LAKE GARDA...'the playground lake’
This is the largest lake in Italy (370 sq. kms), surrounded by stunning diverse scenery ranging from majestic steep cliffs and mountains in the north to verdant, rolling hills in the south. Situated between Venice and Milan, and on the edge of the Dolomites, it’s the most visited lake and is especially popular with families, with mild winters and warm summers.
It offers a range of outdoor activities from windsurfing, kite surfing and rock climbing in the north, to kayaking, jet skiing, sailing, fishing and boat trips. Tennis, golf and cycling are all popular, as is horse riding, mountain hiking and cycling.
There are many historical sites to explore, with ancient ruins, castles, caves and fortresses and beautiful lakeside gardens. Sirmione is a popular southern town which has Roman ruins and an eye-catching town centre. Visit Scaligero castle, the grottoes of Catullus and the archaeological museum. Sirmione is also near to pretty VERONA of Romeo and Juliet fame. Riva del Garda is a stunning northern, medieval town which is popular for its sporting activities (especially windsurfing), shopping experiences and history.
Freshly caught fish from the lake, and locally produced cheese, olive oil, honey and wines, are all waiting to be sampled in the comprehensive range of lakeside eateries.
LAKE COMO...'the Italian Pearl’
For stunning natural scenery and lakeside towns and villages oozing charm and elegance, look no further than Lake Como situated in the Lombardy region of Northern Italy. Just a one hour drive from MILAN, Lake Como has long been the haunt of the rich and famous, with George Clooney and Richard Branson both having homes here. At 146 sq kms, it’s the 3rd largest Italian lake and also the deepest.
Water skiing, sailing and windsurfing are popular activities. It’s surrounded by stunning mountains, lakefront villages and sumptuous neo classical villas, which are easily accessed by the ferries or private boat hire. Definitely on your to do list is the popular, elegant and picturesque town of BELLAGIO with its famous shopping arcades and the twisting streets of the traditional fishing village of VARENNA.
LAKE MAGGIORE...for peace and tranquility
This 2nd largest Italian lake shares its shores with Switzerland. If you are seeking a calm and peaceful walking or mountain biking holiday in the stunning mountains and hills surrounding it, Lake Maggiore is the place to go. Cycling, golf and sailing are popular activities and in the summer months there are many food festivals...cookery courses are also available.
Surrounding the lake there are many first class restaurants, the palaces of the Borromean family and superb botanical gardens to explore. The lively town of Stresa is in a central location offering spectacular views and is only a short ferry ride to the unforgettable Borromean islands.
When To Go
April to October.
The summer months can be very busy.
Travel Time
1. LAKE COMO: fly into Milan’s Malpensa airport (around 2 hours) which is 25 miles south of Lake Como. Catch a bus, taxi or train from the airport.
2. LAKE GARDA:There are several airports you can fly into. VERONA airport is the closest. Milan Bergamo & Venice are also convenient.
3. LAKE MAGGIORE: The closest is Milan Malpensa (2 hour flight from UK) or Milan Bergamo.