Lake Garda

Situated at 65 m above sea level at the foot of the Alps, Lake Garda is the largest Italian lake with a surface of 370 km². This lake, located at the foot of the Alps and between the three provinces of Lombardia, Veneto and Trentino, features a maximum depth of 346 metres. It has an elongated form that is similar to a fjord. The northern part of the lake, a very narrow stretch, is surrounded by the mountains of the Gruppo del Baldo.

Lake Garda is of glacial origin and is characterised by subsequent climatic changes. It is the largest natural basin in Italy and is fed by 25 tributaries, whereas it has only got one effluent. Furthermore there are 5 islands in the lake, the largest is the Isola del Garda. Another characteristic feature of Lake Garda are its winds. The two most important winds are the Pelèr, which breezes from north to south until the early afternoon, when the Ora starts to blow gently from south to north.

Due to the mild climate, a lush Mediterranean vegetation prevails around the lake. Olive trees, oleanders, magnolias and palm trees thrive on the shores. This lake is not only captivating due to its mild climate, but also thanks to the huge variety of sports that can be practised on and around the lake. Lake Garda is not only one of the most popular windsurf spots, but also perfect for swimming, sailing, climbing and mountain biking. Already James Joyce and Goethe praised the beauty of this region.
Furthermore there are numerous characteristic lakeside towns, the most popular of which are Riva del Garda, Arco, Tenno, Torbole, Malcesine, Desenzano, Garda, Sirmione, Lazise and Bardolino. Most of them are situated along the Gardenesa, the coastal road that leads around Lake Garda.