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Italian Lakes Travel Information
Whilst sharing the same dramatic backdrops of mountains reflected in
crystal clear waters, each of these beautiful lakes has its own identity
and atmosphere.
Stretching north into Switzerland where the mountains plunge directly
into the lake, Maggiore has a wild, natural beauty with breathtaking
panoramic views that stretch for miles.
Lake Como
Romantic Lake Como is smaller and spectacularly encircled by mountains
whilst Lake Garda offers a dramatic contrasting landscape dominated by
the breathtaking Dolomites in the North and more gentle plains in the
South.
The "Italian Lake District" is located in the north of the country in the foothills of the Alps.
Here you will see beautiful valleys, striking mountains that descend to meet the lake shores, lakeside towns and meandering narrow roads providing breathtaking views at every turn.
The feeling of water and mountains all around is a truly wonderful escape and to be on the lakes themselves is a must. Waves are rare so sea sickness is no excuse!
Choose from a large variety of hotels, countryside villas, romantic cottages and even castles for your accommodation.
LAKE GARDA
The largest of the Italian lakes is comparable to a small sea and frequently used by sailing enthusiasts. It is close to Verona.
There is something for everyone here from leisurely strolls around the shores and cobbled streets, relaxing in one of many lakeside cafes, through to a host of activities including water sports and theme parks.
Each resort has its own particular charm. Choose one in the South, the lush and hilly heart punctuated by olive/lemon groves or the spectacular north nestling in the rocky foothills of the Dolomites.
The lakeside resort of GARDONE is particularly noted for its many exotically planted parks and gardens.
Lake Garda
SIRMIONE
On the south side of the lake is Gardas most famous resort. An enticing setting on a narrow peninsula that juts 4km into the lake. Here you can wander around the narrow medieval streets which bustle with colour and life and visit the photogenic moated castle, the ROCCA SCALIGERA.
DESENZANO DEL GARDE
More of a normal Italian town with areas of modern development rather than picture postcard pretty like the lakes smaller towns. Ideal for anyone relying on public transport, those who enjoy a realistic taste of Italian culture and those who want to see more of the area.
MALCESINE
This charming town is on the eastern shore of the lake and is pretty, atmospheric and packed with tourists.
Guarding the waters is a castle which is open to the public and has great towers to climb. You can experience stupendous views by taking the cable car up to Monte Baldo ridge. If you are a walker looking to explore then you can begin a high level hike here too.
RIVA DEL GARDE
A pleasant tourist destination situated at the Northern end of the lake. The ROCCA, one of Gardas fortresses dominates the waterfront. It contains the towns museum.
North of RIVA lies some of the regions most dramatic scenery which can be explored on a walking or driving excursion.
Not to be missed is the 278ft waterfall at VARONE, the crags and fortifications of CASTELLO d'ARCO and the remains of a Bronze Age settlement at LAKE
LEDRO.
LAKE MAGGIORE
The second largest lake in Italy reaches into alpine Switzerland.
The most popular resorts are on the western shores of the lake where attractive villas decorate the gentle sloping shores with their beautiful gardens, blooming with azaleas, camellias and rhododendrons.
STRESA
An attractive town with a good climate, lake views, delightful villas and gardens.
Take the cable car to MONTE MOTTARONE and enjoy the views of the other lakes and the Alps from a height of over 4000 feet.
BORROMEAN ISLANDS
One sightseeing trip which is not to be missed. The centre of the lake is home to the three BORROMEAN ISLANDS (named after the Borromeo family who still own the islands) – ISOLA BELLA, ISOLA MADRE and ISOLA DEI
PESCATORI.
CANNERO
One of the more fashionable resorts by the lake, filled with boutiques, cafes restaurants and hotels.
LAKE ORTA
To the west of Maggiore lies LAKE ORTA. This lake is a tranquil spot ideal for exploring. Visit SACRE MONTE a wooded hill which rises above the lake where there are numerous 16th - 18th century chapels.
LAKE COMO
The deepest and third largest lake in Italy (close to Milan) is reputedly the most enchantingly romantic with its beautiful soaring mountain peaks, gentle foothills and lakeside towns and villages.
The breath taking ferry rides are a must to experience this magical place.
BELLAGIO
The jewel of the lake with 19th century travellers dubbing it Europe's prettiest town. Admire the waterfront promenades, the stately hotels and the two gardens open to the public, Villa Serbelloni and Villa
Melzi.
COMO
A pleasant and lively town in a scenic location at the Southern end of the lake. The impressive cathedral has both Gothic and Renaissance features as it has been added to over a period of centuries. These features include fine tapestries and paintings.
The appealing historical centre of the town is also home to an earlier cathedral (built in the tenth century), the tall 900 years old gateway PORTA VITTORIA and the Romanesque church SANT
ABBANDIO.
LECCO
Situated on the least touristy section of the lake this town offers great opportunities for serious mountain walking.
MENAGGIO
Popular holiday destination and a useful base for exploring Lake Como. Located on the Western Shore with small stretches of shingle beach.
Visit the tourist information centre for advice on walking in the mountains (as there are beautiful mountain hikes to be experienced), or travel to Lake LUGANO.
LUGANO is a beautiful city in the South of Switzerland and is virtually on the border with Italy. The people speak Italian, eat Italian and dress Italian so it feels like you are in Italy.
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Italian Lakes Travel and Flight
Information
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Getting There
Flights are to Milan (Malpensa or Linate airports), Verona and Brescia.
All flights can be booked online through our reservations system. You
can also fly direct with the 'Low Cost' airlines which can be found from
our home page.
Accommodation and car hire is best to be booked in advance during the
peak summer season.
Getting Around
The most enjoyable way to explore the lakes is by using the efficient
ferry and hydrofoil networks that operate on them. The larger lakeside
towns are also served by regular public buses.
Must See
Lake Como -
Visit Como town's historic centre and magnificent cathedral.
Bellagio -
Arguably the prettiest lakeside town on the lake.
Lake Maggiore -
Visit the Borromeon Islands, in particular the famous Isola Bella.
Lake Garda -
Stroll along the narrow, winding streets of the old town of pretty
Malcesine, dominated by the 13th century Scaligeri castle.
Visit the picturesque lakeside town of Bardolino, with cafes,
restaurants and shops scattered throughout the narrow streets.
Must Do
Visit the English gardens of Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo, Lake Como.
Visit the beautiful gardens at the Rockefeller foundation in Bellagio,
lake Como for fantastic views of the 3 'legs' of the lake.
Visit the Roman spa town of Sirmione at Lake Garda, with winding streets
and 13th century fortress.
To Relax
Hill walking and boating is available on all lakes. Enjoy the many bars
and restaurants of the Lakes offering a wide variety of cuisine.
Many of the small lakeside towns offer a range of shops and boutiques.
Weather
Daily average temperatures (in Milan Approx) 'C
JAN 4 FEB 7 MAR 15
APR 20 MAY 24 JUN
27 JUL 29 AUG 25 SEP 21 OCT
14 NOV 7 DEC 5
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Lake Como by Cheap
Online Flights
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Lake Como Highlights
> On the shores of what is considered Italy's most romantic lake
> Favoured retreat of wealthy Milanesi
> Rugged scenery, stunning gardens and grandiose villas
> Fascinating old town dating back to Roman times
> Birthplace of Pliny the Elder and the Younger
> Bellagio, the pearl of the lake can be reached by boat or bus
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