From the curves of the hills to the waves of the lake, balancing on a bicycle or leaning over a hull sailing at the water’s edge, perhaps at night with sails billowing from the “Gardesana” breeze, are two perfect ways to enjoy the lake.
Alternatively, a trek up the Rocca in the morning sun or a fairy-tale sunset at Punta San Vigilio are must-see moments of a Garda vacation.
Sportsmen and outdoor enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice when and where to indulge their passions, whether on the water or in the hills, and even in the air: from rowing to SUP, kayaking in the Gulf of Garda and paragliding from Mount Baldo, golfing on the scenic 18-hole green, and of course a choice of road and gravel cycling routes.
There is also no shortage of climbing opportunities on Mount Luppia, which, starting from the road going up to Albisano, offers a wall that opens among the woods and overlooks the Gulf of Garda.
Exciting and memorable is the experience of a spectacular paragliding glide from the slopes of Mount Baldo.
Relaxation is then assured by sunbathing on as many as 5 km of sunny beaches and enchanting bays, gathered between Garda and Punta San Vigilio, wonderful views for swimming in the turquoise waters and relaxing on the shoreline.
But summer also means partying, celebrating traditions and spending evenings under the stars enjoying music and theater.
Not to be missed on the Garda calendar are, the Sardellata and the Feste delle Contrade with the Palio delle contrade in Ferragosto.
In the full moon of July, the Sardellata, an ancient festival of Garda fishermen, takes place along the lake, with the mouthwatering coterie of traditional dishes and traditional live music.
The propitiatory festivals of the Contrade of the village of Garda enliven the downtown streets from June to August with typical dishes, live music and entertainment for children and culminate with the Palio delle Contrade.
The Palio delle Contrade is the rowing regatta most heartfelt among Garda’s contradaioli. It is held in front of the village’s lakefront every August 15, three days in which traditional performances and ancient masks anticipate the challenge on the water at Ferragosto, when at sunset the contradaioli compete for the palio and at midnight the winners are celebrated with a fireworks display over the lake.
Finally, completing the offerings of Garda summers is the prestigious schedule of opera and major live concerts hosted at the Arena di Verona, the Roman amphitheater that offers a unique set for an unforgettable experience, whatever one’s musical genre.
In summer, Garda’s raw materials are perfect for enjoying the flavors of the area. For a shady and refreshing lunch break during the hottest hours of the day, you are spoiled for choice. Breakfast is colored with seasonal fruits, paired with local cookies, and once you’re seated, whether it’s a casual bistro or a grand-chef’s menu in evening dress, the lake catch and PDO oil are a guarantee of quality and lightness.
Discover Garda all year round



