Italy Guide
Lombardy and the lakes
Lake Garda
LAKE GARDA (Lago di Garda) is the largest lake in Italy (52km long by 17km wide): it's so big that it alters the local climate, which is milder and – thanks to a complex pattern of lake breezes – sunnier than might be expected. It's also the most popular of the lakes, handling around 7 percent of all tourists to Italy and acting as a bridge between the Alps and the rest of the country. The narrow north of the lake is tightly enclosed by mountains that drop sheer into the water with villages wedged into gaps in the cliffs. Further south, the lake spreads out comfortably, flanked by gentle hills and lined by placid holiday resorts.
On the western shore are lovely Salò and Gargnano, the lake's best destination, a small village that remains largely unspoilt. In the north, Riva del Garda – the lake's best-known holiday spot – is a charming small town with a long history. For information on resorts and activities all round the lake, consult 
www.visitgarda.com .