Experience the Tranquility of the Lakes of Italy
If you were to ask the average tourist where they have traveled in Italy, you will often hear them speak of holidays in Rome, Venice, Sicily, Naples, Palermo or Bologna. Rarely, if ever, do you hear them boast about having been to the Lakes of Italy. While the cities mentioned are certainly popular destinations, those who have experienced lake holidays in Italy have had the opportunity to see a different side of this diverse nation. Whether or not you have traveled to Italy before, you should certainly consider an Italian lakes holiday for your next family holiday or romantic getaway.
There are 31 lakes spread across six regions of Northern Italy, and partially into Switzerland, each with its own distinctive character. This provides a wide variety of options for those considering Italian lakes holidays and allows travelers to select their destination based both on the particular lake they would like to visit and the towns surrounding each lake. Since each town also has distinct attributes and its own set of historical and cultural attractions, many people who return to Italy year after year for lake holidays choose to visit different lakes each time.
One of Italy’s most popular lakes is Lake Como, which is made up of three branches of almost equal lengths. Lying at the base of a beautiful mountain range, the town of the same name offers luxurious self catering villas and moderate temperatures throughout the year. Founded in 196 B.C. by the Romans, Como boasts a rich history and provides many opportunities for sightseeing and visiting historical sites.
Lake Garda is the longest lake in Northern Italy, flowing into several towns including Lazise, Peschiera del Garda, Padenghe Sul Garda and Manerba del Garda. What makes the area surrounding the lake so perfect is its climate, crystal blue waters and its varied landscape. Grassy flat terrain decorated with olive trees gradually gives way to tree-covered mountains and makes this an ideal location to be inspired to paint or to enjoy relaxing family lake holidays.
Crone di Idro is home to the highest of the lakes in the Lombardy region, at 368 meters (approximately 1207 feet) above sea level. This higher altitude lake is nestled in the mountains and is well-known for spectacular fishing. Another option for small town Italian lakes holidays is the tiny town of Meina, popular for its historical importance and close proximity to Turin. This small town was the site of a terrible tragedy inflicted by the Nazis during World War II, which has increased its historical significance. Now, it is a popular destination for those interested in visiting Lake Maggiore and making the 100-kilometer drive to Turin to visit the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist and view the Shroud of Turin.
Divided equally between Varese and Como is a lake with a rather Swiss sounding name – Lake Lugano. The bridge joining the two ends of this lake has been the subject of many a war dating back to Roman colonization, making this lake particularly interesting to history lovers seeking tranquil lake holidays. From this area, visitors can travel north on a remote road that offers a scenic drive for a side trip to Switzerland.
Italian lakes holidays enjoyed in the luxury and comfort of private, self-catering accommodations provide the ideal setting for complete rest and relaxation. Travelers looking for tranquil lake holidays to enjoy with their family or partner cannot go wrong with choosing the Lakes of Italy for their next holiday destination.
