Lago Di Garda

Chapter 6 - The devastatingly beautiful Lago Di Garda

It was a sleep in that led us to Lake Garda, and what a find that was. After a late and slow start to the day we decide to head to Lago Di Garda. I had read about Lake Garda in the lonely planet guide and the hotel we were staying at in Verona had plenty of glossy brochures on Lago Di Garda. Ad was keen to hire bikes (read previous post....I don't think so!!). So Garda, here we come.

We took a regional train to Peshiera Del Garda, and we were instantly taken by this place. The lake appears oceanic in size and is an immense 370 sq km, water beyond the horizon. We walked around the lake for a good couple of hours, just taking in the beautiful view and towns. We had lunch at a beer garden type cafe and chatted to the Scottish owner. She tells us that she went travelling around Europe 20 years ago and ended up marrying an Italian man and has called Lago Di Garda home for many years. In summer they have a staff of 20 between 8am - 2am, today however it is just the two of them.

Apparently the Pope's wine of choice is from here! I asked for a glass of 'whatever he drinks', but that is only sold by the bottle and not quite in my price range. Ahh to be a Catholic Pope..The owner suggests another local wine for me to try. Bellisimo.

We order hot dogs and get a sausage on a plate. Very nice sausage, but no bun! Ad orders again but this time with a bun. The owner insists that we visit Sirmione, so after our drinks and snack we head to the main road to find a bus to Sirmione. I use my Italian language skills on the bus driver, but he speaks back in Italian and I have no idea what he has said. The blank look on my face is enough si, si..he gives me my change and ushers us on the bus.

OHHHH my lord, Sirmione is unbelievable. A square cut castle perched on an amazing stretch of the lake. Words do not describe..

Lago Di Garda will always hold a special place in my heart. I don't want leave. The sun is starting to set so we head back for a bus to Verona.

As we were enjoying our drinks in the beer garden we watched in amusement these kids playing on the wharf and jumping in the clear water of Lake Garda. I longed for my girls to be here. Language is no barrier when there is fun to be had.. I had to get this shot of these kids, it encapsulates summer fun (even though it is autumn). A very balmy 25 degrees for an October day.....