Where to stay on Lake Garda: 7 lesser-known gems

Maderno – for a little bit of everything

This pretty, pastel-coloured village on the lake’s west shore is one of Lake Garda’s least-known spots, meaning you’ll feel like you’ve uncovered a true hidden gem on a holiday here. It’s a quiet place but with all the ingredients of a classic lake break: a waterside promenade lined with cafés, a week’s worth of beaches and lemon groves, olive trees and vineyards adding a Mediterranean feel.

Maderno’s backed by the lush green Monte Pizzocolo, with lots of walking trails to choose from high above the lake. And it’s easy to get out on the water too – hire paddleboards and canoes from the beach, or take a boat trip over to the secluded island of Isola del Garda.

Torbole – for walkers and cyclists

If getting out among Lake Garda’s incredible natural scenery is on your list, you need to know about Torbole. Right up in the north-west corner of the lake and surrounded by mountains, this relaxed village boasts natural scenery turned up to 10.

You won’t be short of walking routes around here, but you’ll definitely want to add the 8.1km Tempesta Trail to your list. One of the best walks around Lake Garda, it’ll take you high above the terracotta tiles of Torbole and neighbouring town Riva, to a viewpoint where you can drink in the unforgettable view straight down the lake, framed by mountains. If you prefer exploring on two wheels to two feet, there are lots of lovely cycle routes too.

Desenzano – for explorers

If you want to explore further afield than just Lake Garda on your holiday, Desenzano should be on your list. There’s a train station in town, meaning it’s easy to visit iconic Italian cities like Milan, Venice and Verona for a day. You can easily get to loads of other spots around Lake Garda from here too, with plenty of ferries connecting Desenzano with places like Sirmione, Bardolino and Salò. And there’s lots to see in Desenzano itself as well, from the archaeological museum and elaborate Roman Villa to all the boutiques and eateries that fill the town’s higgledy-piggledy streets.

Peschiera – for history buffs

Peschiera’s crammed with canals, cobblestones and colourful buildings – and it’s a town with a colourful history too. A fortified town built on a Roman settlement, it’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and you can still see some of the ancient ruins. The town also played a key role in World War I so whether you're into ancient or 20th-century history you’ll find plenty to discover. In the evenings, take a stroll down the long lakefront promenade, or settle in with a drink at a canalside café, and watch the sunset turn the sky all kinds of colours.

Lasize – for beach lovers

If a beach is your holiday must-have, Lasize will hit the spot. Most of the beaches around Lake Garda are pebbly but Lasize is home to some of the few sandy ones. The standout beach is considered to be Spiaggia d’Oro, a gorgeous curve of golden sand that’s perfect for a spot of lakeside lounging. It’s just a short stroll from Lasize’s historic centre, and this is a town that takes charm to whole new levels. Its colourful harbour is home to bobbing fishing boats and plenty of bars and restaurants, where you can sit back and soak up the sunset.

Gardone Riviera – for garden enthusiasts

This part of Lake Garda’s known for its lush botanical gardens, opulent villas and lavish bloom-filled parks. Gardone’s backed by tree-covered hills with mountains to the north, creating a wonderful subtropical climate that’s behind the booming plant life. It’s one of the quietest spots on the lake, so it’s ideal for a laid-back break – fill your days with walks along the lakefront and wanders through the botanic gardens. And don’t miss a visit to Il Vittoriale – an intriguing complex of gardens and waterways filled with interesting artefacts.

Padenghe sul Garda – for wine lovers

This peaceful, red-roofed village is filled with cobbled streets and something pretty round every corner. It’s in the Valtènesi region, known for its wines, and the rolling hills around Padenghe are covered with vines and olive groves. Walking paths lead you to rural villages and tucked away wineries, where you can settle in for an afternoon tasting. Down by the lakeside, you’ve got a colourful harbour, pebbly beaches and a lakeside path dotted with cafés and bars serving local tipples.