Gardone Riviera occupies one of the most idyllic spots on the largest lake in Italy, Lake Garda. Walk along the sunny promenade where brightly colored flowerbeds, benches with a view and quaint cafés are perfect for relaxing on summer afternoons. The town’s central location also makes it the perfect jumping-off point for further exploration around the lake and rolling countryside.
In addition to leafy piazzas, an abundance of excellent restaurants serving hearty Italian cuisine and mouth-watering ice cream parlors, Gardone Riviera has much more to keep you entertained. Explore the lovely Gardone Sopra, the historic center, where you will find a maze of buildings, steps and leafy courtyards.
The town’s most famous attraction is undoubtedly Il Vittoriale degli Italiani, a grand building and monument to the eccentric poet Gabriele d’Annunzio. The fantastic building is a swirl of monuments and statues, art and quirky personal possessions. Embark on a guided tour of the house and discover the weird and extravagant items and architecture associated with one of Italy’s best-known figures.
The area’s other top attraction is the Heller Botanic Garden, a stunning garden founded by Arthur Hruska in 1910 and today run by the Andre Heller Foundation. Wander amid the bright blooms and see a wide range of plants and shimmering water features. Look for the works of modern art dotted throughout the space as well.
Be sure to visit a couple of the lakeside villas, such as the 16th-century Villa Fiordaliso, where Mussolini’s mistress stayed, or the Villa Alba, a great example of striking Greek architecture. Today Villa Alba serves as the city’s convention center.
Gardone Riviera is located on the western shore of Lake Garda, making it easy to visit other nearby towns and villages by boat. Hop on one of the many ferryboats or pleasure cruises and spend a day exploring the picturesque villages that dot the shore. Buses also run from Brescia, which has an international airport.
