Malcesine, Lago di Garda
While many people, particularly those from North America, head to the more well known lakes of Maggiore and Como, there is plenty to explore on the others. One of my favourite places in Italy is a little town (a village, really) on Lago di Garda called Malcesine. Lago di Garda is the biggest of the Italian lakes and popular with German and Austrian tourists, particularly because of its proximity to the Austrian border and Brenner Pass. I’m no wind surfer (never tried it and too old now!) but the northern part of the lake is world-renowned for that sport. I prefer a much lazier approach: strolling along the Lungomare into Malcesine from Val di Sogno, sipping wine in the harbour while people watching, or riding the gondola to the top of Mount Baldo for its spectacular views of the Italian and Austrian Alps. Malcesine has lots of restaurants, shops and cafes. Its small fishing port is very active and there is a ferry service from it to other towns on the lake. Malcesine is a great base to explore the rest of the lake as well as a wonderful spot just to relax by a pool or the lake itself.
View from Mount Baldo
The eastern side of the Lake Garda, particularly to the south is quite touristy and filled with attractions for families with children - such as Gardaland – but there are also lovely, quieter spots along the lake. The village of Bardolino is very much worth a visit and the town at the southern tip, Sermione, has a picturesque, walled old town. In busy times, however, parking and access can be a challenge so, if you are going, try ”out of season” visit.
Because this area is so popular, there are many options for hotels, pensions, etc. I lucked out the first time I was here (2003) and, with the help of the Tourist Info Office in Malcesine, found a lovely hotel in Val di Sogno, about 2 km south of the village. It is perfect – quiet with fabulous views of the lake and an easy walk into Malcesine. I have been back at least three times since then and have never been disappointed. All along the lakeside walkway (Lungomare), there are hotels ranging from high end to more modest. You can’t go wrong!
With Verona and even Venice and Milan, a relatively short distance away, this spot is a perfect location to rest and relax before moving on to the larger (and often more frenetic) sights of northern Italy!