Lake Garda's Natural Beauty 

Lake Garda itself is gorgeous but around the lake there are a few places where the natural beauty is particularly awe-inspiring.  We've four of the most spectacular for you.

Isola del Garda - scroll down for more

Mount Baldo

Monte Baldo (Mount Baldo) is one such place. Soaring over 2000 meters above the lake. This 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 either.

The Monte Baldo cable car is very modern cable car indeed and leaves from Malcesine. The cable car journey takes about ten minutes to reach the cable station at 1700 meters. The fact that the cable car rotates while ascending means you get to enjoy a 360-degree panorama.

Try to make sure you choose a clear day, as it can sometimes be a little hazy in the summer. It is best to go early in the morning or a little before sunset for the clearest view.

Mount Baldo is known as "The Garden of Europe" for its rich variety of flora and fauna. A richer variety of plant species, around 2000, from Alpine to Mediterranean, exists here. That is more than pretty much anywhere else in Europe. The flowers are particularly spectacular in the spring and early summer.

Hotels Near Monte Baldo

The good news is that the Valley of Dreams is right nearby; well, actually, it is the Hotel Val Di Sogno (which means Valley of Dreams in Italian), and it is... well, a dream! If you don't believe me, just click here for more reviews from actual guests, and photos of the wonderful setting.

Cascata Varone

This natural wonder has been enchanting visitors for centuries with its sheer beauty and jaw-dropping height!

The Varone Waterfall is formed by the mighty Magnone River, which starts its journey from the picturesque Lake Tenno and then tumbles down a stunning 98-meter gorge.

There's a well-maintained pathway that takes you on an adventure through a series of tunnels and caves. As you venture deeper into the gorge, you'll feel a refreshing drop in temperature, and the roar of the cascading water becomes louder and louder. The tunnels you pass through are adorned with colorful lights that transform the atmosphere into a mystical wonderland. It's like stepping into a fairytale.

Once inside the gorge, prepare to witness the sheer force of nature up close. The water rushes past moss-covered rocks and as you reach the end of the path, a breathtaking spectacle awaits you: the Varone Waterfall plunging into a crystal-clear pool below. 

Surrounding the waterfall, you'll find a delightful botanical garden where you can explore a rich variety of plants and trees. Informational signs guide you through the diverse flora and fauna of the region, adding an educational touch to your visit.

And let me tell you a little secret: the garden is also a tranquil oasis where you can relax and soak in the serenity of nature. Pure bliss!

Oh, and a little tip: consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and have a more serene experience. This way, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the waterfall and truly connect with nature.

For more information on the falls, including opening hours and ticket prices, visit the official Varone Falls Website.

Getting to the falls

If you're arriving by car, the Cascata Varone is conveniently located near the town of Riva del Garda From Riva del Garda, follow the signs directing you to the waterfall. The journey approximately 10 minutes. You'll find ample parking available near the entrance, ensuring a hassle-free visit.

For those relying on public transportation, there are buses that connect Riva del Garda to the Cascata Varone. From the Riva del Garda bus station, take a local bus or a shuttle service that specifically caters to visitors heading to the waterfall. The bus journey is quick and convenient, offering you the chance to relax and enjoy the scenic views along the way.

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.

The 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 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.

When you're finished at the park, make sure you visit the nearby village of Borghetto sul Mincio, which is one of the loveliest in all of Italy - here's our guide to the village.

Getting to Parco Giardino Sigurtà

Public Transportation:

Train: Take a train to Peschiera del Garda, a town located on the southern shore of Lake Garda. From major cities like Verona or Milan, you'll find direct train connections to Peschiera del Garda.

Bus: From the Peschiera del Garda train station, take the Linea 46 operated by ATV Verona. 

By Car:
If you're traveling by car, follow these directions to reach Parco Giardino Sigurtà:

From Venice and Verona: Take the A4 motorway (towards Milan) and exit at "Peschiera del Garda." Follow the signs for Valeggio sul Mincio, and you'll reach the park in approximately 15 minutes.

From Milan: Take the A4 motorway (towards Venice) and exit at "Desenzano del Garda." Follow the signs to Peschiera del Garda, then continue towards Valeggio sul Mincio.

Once you arrive at Parco Giardino Sigurtà, you'll find ample parking available near the park entrance.

It's always a good idea to check the park's official website or contact their visitor center for any updated information on public transport schedules, parking fees, and entrance tickets.

Isola del Garda

A new addition to the list of the 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 are the lucky people who own the island and villa; nobody leaves the island without a little envy for the family. I bet you'll wish you could live here too after you've visited. I know I do.

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 oils.

Dating back to the early 19th century, the villa on the island is magnificent, and the gardens too are exquisite. There are well-maintained parks and wilder areas of olive groves, cypress, and lemon trees—it's all wonderful. The views across the lake to the far-off shores are unforgettable.

Summer concerts are occasionally arranged on the island and are well worth attending if you are lucky enough to be in the area when they are held. The setting, combined with the fabulous music, makes these evenings truly enchanting.

For boat details, tour details, cultural events, and times visit their site.