Each lake a distinct character, which makes it difficult to decide which of the Italian lakes you should visit. Lake Garda’s beguiling beauty, Lake Maggiore’s serene setting, Lake Como’s romantic allure and Lake Orta’s seductive charm – no tour of Italy would be complete without visiting at least one of the country’s great lakes.
Happily going that extra mile for customers is at the heart of the Riviera approach. That’s why, over the last month, we have been in Lake Como and Lake Garda to experience Italy for ourselves, and make sure the experience is as immersive and enjoyable as you would expect from a Riviera holiday. What’s more, you can earn 10% commission for your Rotary club with every group booking.
As Italy’s largest lake, Lake Garda has captivated visitors for centuries. Covering an area of 143 square miles and with a coastline of over 100 miles, the lake’s northern and southern shores are quite different. The dramatic, scenic north is more mountainous, wild and rugged, and attracts walkers and cyclists, with its section of narrow lake enticing windsurfers and adrenaline addicts. The flatter south is backed by cypress hills, olive groves and vineyards, and resorts here have more of a laid-back, genteel, seaside feel, with pebbled beaches providing easy access to the lake itself.
One of the best lakes in Italy for a leisurely holiday is Lake Maggiore. Of course, visitors can still enjoy walking, mountain biking and boat trips, but the pace of life feels slower here, and elegant villages and towns on Lake Maggiore’s shores are peaceful. Straddling both Italy and Switzerland, the majestic Alps provide Lake Maggiore with a staggeringly beautiful backdrop.
Although just 50 miles north of Milan, when you reach the romantic destination it feels as if you’ve been transported to another world, one where you can relax and admire idyllic lakeside settings. There are many low-key traditional Italian towns and fishing villages to base yourself, and to enjoy delightful hiking paths – walkers will have plenty of options. Cypress-lined easy trails pass through quaint hamlets, near medieval churches and alongside magnificent manicured gardens.
When you reach the romantic destination of Lake Como, it feels as if you’ve been transported to another world.
While perhaps not as well known as the other three Italian lakes, don’t overlook Lake Orta. Although only seven square miles, this small lake has heaps of charm and is a truly awe-inspiring destination. From the magical lakeside village of Orta San Giulio, with its myriad of lanes, half-timbered shuttered homes and Moorish palace, to the famous fresco-painted houses of Miasino, if you’re researching holidays to Italy, add Lake Orta to your list.
Where will Riviera Travel take your group?
Whether you’re looking for short stays or something further afield, why not browse next year’s availability on Riviera Travel tours, river cruises and expeditions to find your perfect group holiday?
To request a brochure or to make a booking call 01283 523438 or visit www.rotaryriviera.co.uk mentioning your Rotary club name at the time of booking. For group enquiries, or for details on this commission scheme, please email groups@rivieratravel.co.uk.
*Some elements are not commissionable, including room/travel upgrades and supplements, insurance premiums and bookings made through a third party (to include travel agents, online booking sites or any dedicated media partner departures) and any bookings where the Club name was not mentioned at the time of booking. A commission invoice will be requested from your Rotary Club via the lead name on the booking, in the month following that of the departure. Payment made to the designated Rotary Club account, for all that travel, within 28 days of receipt of invoice.
