Being a lover of our Cumbrian Fells and Spectacular Lakes, I couldn’t refuse the offer to visit Lake Garda in Italy and find out what it is all about!

To begin with, I cannot put down in words how breathtakingly beautiful the place is. It is so tropical looking, with fresh wild fruit growing, emerald crystal clear waters and luscious green rolling hills and mountain ranges surrounding the Lake. We were lucky enough to still be able to see some snow on the mountains!

After a quick 2 hour flight and a relatively short transfer through vineyards and olive groves, we arrived in the Gardone Riviera where we met our rep Matt who showed us as much of the southern Lake as he possibly could in 5 days.

We visited Gardone, Salo, Sirmione, Garda, Bardolino, Verona and Dezenzano. Each town is rightfully different but you will always find historical buildings and monuments which tells a unique and fascinating story. There is something for everyone to enjoy, no matter the age!

The ferries run all day between the different towns. This a great way to explore and feel free to sup a drink or two on board with your loved ones and enjoy the scenery as the Italians do.

The laid back café culture topped it off. You were waited on hand and foot, nothing was a problem. If you wanted to stand at the bar and enjoy a quick espresso or sit for an aperitif on the lake side, you were always welcome and given fresh olives, crisps, bread and nuts to nibble on. I was surprised at how cheap drinks are food are. At 3 euros for a glass of prosecco or locally produced wine, what’s not to be happy about right?