5 quiet places on Lake Garda for your holiday
Lake Garda is not only Italy's largest lake, but also one of the most popular. In summer, many places here get quite crowded. But there are still a few places where you can escape mass tourism and enjoy the Italian lightness a little more for yourself. We'll introduce you to the most beautiful places.
Navene is a small village north of the more famous town of Malcesine. Here on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, the houses are built on terraces – and the higher you climb, the more beautiful the view over the lake becomes. If you're looking for something more active, you can head to the Bocca di Navene mountain hut. It lies at over 1,400 meters on the Monte Baldo high road. From there, another trail leads north up to 2,000 meters.
Navene is an ideal refuge if you want peace and quiet on Lake Garda.
Source: imago images/UIG
Navene is also ideal for a day at the beach. There's a small pebble beach for that. In the mornings, the conditions are also good for surfing. Those who want to see Lake Garda from the depths can explore the diving spots off Navene.
On the western shore of Lake Garda, you can escape the crowds of tourists to the Tignale plateau. It's home to just 1,200 residents. The town even has a small harbor, with steep cliffs rising high into the mountain ridges behind it. The tranquility and altitude have even earned Tignale the title of climatic health resort.
From the pilgrimage church near Tignale you have a wonderful view over Lake Garda.
Source: imago images/Panthermedia
A small pilgrimage path towards Gardola takes you to a steep cliff perched on the Madonna di Monte Castello pilgrimage church. The view over Lake Garda could hardly be more spectacular. The church was built here in the 17th century and houses, among other things, a golden altar and intricate frescoes.
A little further from the lake lies the Valle dei Laghi. This valley stretches between Trento and Lake Garda, which can be reached in just over an hour by car. In the Valle dei Laghi, you'll also find numerous swimming lakes and can enjoy the tranquility with, for example, a glass of Vino Santo. The region is known for this golden-yellow, sweet wine.
The Valle dei Laghi is very close to Lake Garda, but not as crowded.
Source: imago images/blickwinkel
The Valle dei Laghi is also special because it lies on a high plateau, with its lakes hidden behind the rocky cliffs between Monte Bondone and Paganella. Small, idyllic villages pop up everywhere, perfect for hiking or cycling.
Another tranquil alternative to Lake Garda is Lake Tenno, north of Riva del Darda. Cool forests stretch all around the lake, and there are numerous hiking trails that lead all the way around it. The water is a brilliant turquoise, and scientists agree: Lake Tenno is one of the cleanest freshwater lakes in all of Italy, making it a lovely place to escape the hustle and bustle of Lake Garda for a moment.
Caribbean feelings with a mountain backdrop can be found at Lake Tenno, very close to Lake Garda.
Source: imago images/Manngold
A visit to the town of the same name, Tenno, is also worthwhile. Here you'll find a large castle that can be seen from afar. Right next to the castle, a path leads to the next town, which also exudes a medieval atmosphere: Frapporta. Walls adorn the town, and the narrow streets are wonderful for strolls in the Italian sun.
An oasis of tranquility in the Lake Garda region lies just ten kilometers east of Riva del Garda in the north: Lake Ledro. Here you can hike, paddle, or simply lie on the shore of this small mountain lake and enjoy the sun. If you've had enough of swimming, perhaps the surrounding mountain landscape of the province of Trento will tempt you for a short hike.
Not far from Lake Garda and much quieter: Lake Ledro.
Source: imago images/Jöran Steinsiek
For experienced hikers, the trail up to the 2,250-meter-high Monte Cadria is a great option. Alternatively, a bike ride around Lake Ledro is a great way to burn off some energy. And if you find yourself longing for the hustle and bustle of Lake Garda, it's only an hour's drive to get back to Italy's largest lake.
Looking for more inspiration? You can find all our Lake Garda tips in our online travel guide , and the best travel deals on our deals page .
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