Lake Garda Attractions Lago di Garda

The east side of the lake is separated from the Adige valley by the 80km/50mi long limestone ridge of Monte Baldo (2,200m/7,260ft). The west side, hemmed in towards its northern end by sheer rock faces, opens out between Gargnano and Salò to form the beautiful and fertile coastal strip known as the Riviera Bresciana. Until 1918 the northern tip of Lake Garda, with Riva and Torbole, belonged to Austria.

Climate

The climate in the area of Lake Garda is extraordinarily mild, and snow is rare. The lake is seldom entirely calm, and in a storm coming from the north can be quite rough. In fine weather a very cold wind known as the ora blows around midday in winter and spring. Sailing and surfing is popular on the lake.

Flora and fauna

The vegetation is luxuriant on the more sheltered stretches of the lakeside, in places almost Mediterranean. Olives grow up to 300m/1,000ft, and palms, cedars, magnolias and agaves flourish in the gardens. The lake fish are excellent.