Culture, enjoyment and nature – 5 tips from Leonardo Hotels for holidays to Lake Garda
Berlin, 18 July 2024 - Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy. Surrounded by picturesque villages, historic towns and lush olive groves, it offers a unique combination of breathtaking nature and cultural richness. Crystal clear waters, a Mediterranean climate and a multitude of leisure options all make this area the perfect destination for active holidaymakers, for visitors merely seeking to unwind and for gourmets. The Leonardo Lago di Garda – Wellness and Spa is the ideal starting point from which to explore a beautiful region. Here are five tips that will make your stay here an unforgettable experience.
1. Olive oil tasting in the groves of Bardolino
A trip to the olive groves of Bardolino, just a short drive from the Leonardo Lago di Garda – Wellness and Spa, provides the perfect introduction to local culture and cuisine. The small town of Bardolino is renowned for its high quality olive oil. A guided tour through the olive groves offers fascinating insights into a history of olive growing that stretches back for centuries. It is also an opportunity to see at first hand the whole production process from the olive harvest to the pressing of the oil. One particular highlight is an olive oil tasting experience during which a number of varieties can be sampled. There is no need to be a gourmet in order to appreciate the subtle differences in both taste and smell. The “Museo dell’ Olio”, where there are extensive displays on the history and significance of olive oil in the region, is also well worth a visit.
2. A hike up Monte Baldo
Monte Baldo offers hiking enthusiasts spectacular vistas and a wide choice of pathways. The “Funivia Malcesine-Monte Baldo” cable car takes just under ten minutes to travel from Malcesine at the foot of Monte Baldo up to the “Tratto Spino” at a height of 1,760 metres. As it makes its ascent to the summit station, the cabin rotates slowly around 360 degrees to give magnificent views of the lake and the mountains. Once at the top of Monte Baldo, there are various trails for beginners and experienced hikers to discover. One of the most popular routes is the Sentiero del Ventrar, a circular route that leads through flowering mountain pastures and dense forest and past rocky slopes.
3. A visit to the historic town of Lazise
Lazise is one of the oldest towns on Lake Garda. Its attractions include stunning medieval architecture and a charming port. A walk through the narrow cobbled lanes of the old quarter will take you past well-preserved historical buildings and piazzas. Scaliger Castle is an imposing edifice which dates back to the 14th century. Surrounded by a mighty town wall, this is an absolute must for any history lovers and bears fascinating witness to the region’s medieval architecture and history. A visit to the weekly market is a further highlight which showcases Italian lifestyle in its purest form. Anyone searching for a souvenir is sure to find something amongst the regional products, authentic artisan craftwork and Italian delicacies on sale. The old quarter of Lazise is accessible from the Leonardo Lago di Garda – Wellness and Spa in only a few minutes.
4. A journey into the world of wine
The region around Lake Garda is famous for its outstanding wines, especially those from Bardolino and Lugana. Many vintners offer tours of their vineyards and cellars during which the various stages of the wine making process are explained. The Zeni Estate in Bardolino is particularly recommended. As well as tasting excellent wines, visitors are also able to find out interesting information about the history and tradition of viticulture in the region at an on-site wine museum. One particular high point is an “odour gallery”, where visitors attune their sense of smell to the numerous aromas found in wine. The wine tasting sessions themselves take place in a cosy atmosphere. Delicacies such as regional cheese and sausage specialities can be booked as an optional extra.
5. Relaxation at the Leonardo Hotel on Lake Garda
The Leonardo Lago di Garda – Wellness and Spa is located only a few minutes from the picturesque town of Lazise and provides an ideal starting point to explore Lake Garda. It is also the perfect place to seek out some peace and quiet after a day full of exploration and activity. The restaurant, bar and lobby now all boast a resplendent new look and elegant colour scheme following the completion of recent renovation works. The generous and open design of these areas underline the hotel’s beauty and inviting character. Two outdoor pools and one indoor pool provide plenty of opportunity to unwind and sunbathe. Additional relaxation is available at the hotel’s own wellness oasis, which features an organic sauna, a haman and numerous healthy and beauty treatments. The hotel’s modern and comfortably furnished rooms, some of which have their own whirlpool, offer a restful retreat.
The code “Garda24” can be used for online reservations until 15 September 2024 to receive a 20 percent discount on overnight stays at the Leonardo Lago di Garda – Wellness and Spa. Further information on the hotel may be found here.