Lake Garda

As the largest Roman domestic villa that’s still standing in Northern Italy, this grand multi-story structure remains an impressive sight some 2000 years after its construction.

The villa’s name is a result of the local legend that suggests that it was the home of the acclaimed Roman poet Catullus, although there’s no evidence to prove that he lived here but he did, at least, have a home nearby.

Wander among the cypress trees and admire the lake views, just as the villa’s ancient inhabitants would have done.

With a stupendous location on the shores of the lake in Sirmione, this 13th-century castle appears to be the stuff of fairy tales. Heralded as one of the most well preserved fortresses in Italy, the imposing structure has three crenulated towers, along with a main tower and its own protected harbour.

Visitors must cross the castle’s drawbridge to enter the complex and those feeling energetic can climb the 146 steps to the top of the tower for staggering views of the lake and Sirmione.

The home of late writer, soldier and political influencer, Gabriele d'Annunzio, is as divisive and arresting as the man himself. Largely credited with promoting a type of fascism that directly inspired Mussolini’s own political doctrine, the complex of buildings and gardens of Il Vittoriale were designed by d’Annunzio as a celebration of both Italian nationalism and himself.

Spanning a hillside, the house itself contains around 10,000 objects which shed light on d’Annunzio’s eccentric character and exotic lifestyle, from a golden turtle in the centre of the dining room table to an entire room that resembles an Arabian tent and to the prow of a warship that hangs in some trees in the garden.

This scenic journey offers 15 minutes of superb panoramic views which culminates at the top of Mount Baldo some 1760 metres high. For unparalleled views of both the lake and surrounding mountains, each cable car cabin rotates in order for visitors to truly make the most of the 360 mountain high vistas.

Open for 10 months of the year, with services operating every half an hour, this is a memorable way to familiarise yourself with the scenery of Lake Garda and appreciate the region’s abundant natural beauty.

Sirmione has a long-held reputation as a spa town, thanks to the natural thermal springs which were discovered here in the 19th century. Set within a pretty park on the shores of the lake, Aquaria Thermal Spa draws on the town’s heritage by offering visitors the choice of two thermal pools in addition to a range of relaxing and rejuvenating treatments.

Whether you opt for a thermal mud wrap, take some time out in the whirlpool or sit back and relax in the sauna, this an opportunity to enjoy some downtime in lovely lakeside surroundings.