The magic of winter on Lake Garda
A Mediterranean breeze on Trentino’s fjord
WINTER 2023/2024 - If you haven’t experienced Lake Garda in winter yet, then read on. Let us take you on a romantic trip along its Trentino shores, with the bright and bustling Christmas markets to light your way.
Viewed from here, Lake Garda has the appearance of a fjord, although its temperatures and plant life are unmistakably Mediterranean. This makes it ideal for a winter walk where you don’t have to worry about the cold, or for a stroll through the villages, before sitting down to a table of delicate, sophisticated flavours to round off an afternoon’s browsing through the Christmas markets.
Here, you’ll find some of our suggestions: a small taste of all that Lake Garda can offer you in winter.
Christmas by the lake
Illuminated Christmas markets can be found all around the lake and nearby. Riva del Garda, Torbole, Arco, Tenno up to Valle di Ledro, and the Comano area: it’s a party all around, with stalls, lights and elves. Don’t forget to tell the children that Santa will also be there in person!
A round-the-clock gym
The Trentino shores of Lake Garda have an open-air gym which never shuts! The area’s mild temperatures mean you can ride on the roads and cycle paths, hike through forests and olive groves, and climb crags and legendary walls even during the winter months.
Exploring the village
Just a stone’s throw from Lake Garda lies a labyrinth of alleyways and terraces in the sleepy village of Canale di Tenno. Officially recognised as one of Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages, it is also home to the Casa degli Artisti centre which welcomes creative talents from all over Europe and displays their work. In winter, it comes to life with magic thanks to the Christmas Markets.
From Garda to the snow
You can explore with snowshoes and poles within walking distance of Lake Garda! If you go up Mount Stivo, for example, you can walk in the snow with a view of the whole lake. There are also snowshoe routes in the Val di Ledro and on Mount Casale.
Dinner by the lake
There is nothing more romantic than a lunch or dinner by the lake, even in winter, when Garda shimmers with the reflections of Christmas lights. From traditional taverns to the Michelin-starred cuisine of Peter Brunel, from intimate candlelit spots to family restaurants — the choice is yours!
