Lake Garda (Italy)

If you want somewhere to go in Italy that has it all, then lake Garda is the place and best of all is the largest of the towns around the edge; Garda itself.
This quaint little village is perfect for people of all ages to get away to.

The village front is set onto the lake and is lined with little restaurants and cafes. there is seating outside opposite all these places so the spectacular views can be absorbed, of which there are many. from the promanade the opposite side of the lake is clear to see, as is the so called "crocodile" a small penisular with a great resembilance to a sleeping crocodile. it was apparently near here that churchill wrote some of his memroires.

Throughout Garda there are many wonderful litle places you feel inclined to stop and look at. As you would expect of Italy the ice cream is delicious and usually rather large and the coffee is delightful.
Leather is common within this area and so is faily cheap compared to back in england, so many bargins are to be found. Clothes can be faily cheap too, especially some designer labels!!

If for some reason you get bored of garda then there is plenty nearby to keep you occupied. the local transport is fairly reliable and there is a bus station at the top of the town. if you are a family there is a water park and a theme park within bus journey.
for those who wish to see what they may refere to as "real Italy" then dont worry this too is all close by. Verona, home of romeo and juliet is not to far, when her a must see is the balcony of juliet. It is also here that you can take in an opera in the large amphitheatre. It really is
quite breath taking.

If you are willing to travel a little further then Venice is the place to visit. The Gondalas are definately worth a trip upon and st marks square is quite brilliant with the string quartet playing. The views entering and leaving Venice are delightful and all the well known attractions are within walking distance once in Venice. It really is quite amusing to watch fridges and such beign delivered to places on boats due to no vehicles allowed in Venice!

The region is known for wines and with plenty of vineyards around your bound to find something you like. Garda has an excellent wine shop which sells all the local products as well as some more well known ones and they are fairly well priced too.
These trips may be able to be arranged yourself although there is a travel agents on Garda front where they arrange excursions.

Garda comes to life at night and many people can be found wandwering the streets as in the summer the shops can be open fairly late and many just enjoy sitting with a drink watching the world go by.

whilst around the lake though, if you have time a trip right around is advisable, all the little towns are slightly different but have a great charm. Limione, is gorgeous and the local tipple is quite litterally breath taking! you will also be able to the house Mussolini ran to for a while during the war.

it can also get fairly hot in mid summer. it got up to about 92 degrees, however the breeze from the laka can take the edge off.

be warned though, whilst Italy may have lots to do, it can get fairly expensive for the food and trips. however Garda and the area have something for everyone and can provide a relaxing setting or a hectic one which ever you decide you want.