Lombardy, Lake Garda, Desenzano
Lake Garda, whose waters are famed for their transparency, is the largest in Italy and was much loved by Virgil, Catullus and Goethe. The town of Desenzano is the largest and liveliest in the south of Lake Garda; its central picturesque piazza is situated on a cobbled pedestrian walk that winds its way around the contour of the lake, providing a wonderful opportunity to experience the daily passeggiata and inspiring views up the lake. Conveniently close to the main motorway and railway that connects Milan and Venice, it is a great base from which to explore the North of Italy.
Desenzano is home to many fine hotels, tourist resorts and restaurants serving excellent dishes and famous wines (Lugana, Chiaretto, Rosso Riviera). Numerous sports facilities, such as swimming pools, riding schools, tennis courts, yacht clubs are available, while on the cultural side a rich and interesting history can be seen in its monuments dating from Roman times through the 19th century. The foundations of a notable Roman Villa have recently been excavated and preserved with their beautiful mosaics dating from the 1st century (near the post office). In the upper part of town, a mediaeval fortification, 'Il Castello', had its foundations reconstructed in the 14th and 15th C, when the town was flourishing as a duty free fishing port and a seat of one of Italy's major cereal markets. The city has a Venetian style old port surrounded by 16th and 17th century buildings, such as the 16th century Cathedral with paintings including Giambattista Tiepolo's Last Supper. The picturesque open-air market held every Tuesday has existed since the 15th century and the main street hosts some excellent shops and designer boutiques. For evening outings, lively and elegant Desenzano has plenty to offer: summer festivals, fine restaurants, night clubs or just romantic strolls by the lake, cute little villages and castles to be explored.
Why Desenzano- Halfway between Milan and Venice, it is well connected by transport
- The lake is broad, the hills gentle and the views outstanding
To do in the Desenzano area- Do the evening passeggiata (promenading)
- Don't miss the market on Tuesday mornings
- Catch a ferry over to Sirmione and explore the town
- Relax at the beach on the point of Desenzano
- Explore the walled towns of Padenghe and Moniga
- Visit the famous spas of Sirmione
- Visit the wine areas for Chiaretto and Groppello (west) or Lugana (east)
To do further afield- Catch a train to Verona or Brescia (20 mins)
- Day trip to Venice or Milan by train
- Attend the opera at the arena in Verona
- Visit the lakeside towns up the lake by ferry
Vacation accommodation to rent in Desenzano, Lake Garda.
Our selection of holiday villas, apartments and self-catering properties for rental serve as a perfect base for enjoying Desenzano, Salo, Limone
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