Gardone Riviera
|
Latest page update: 3 April 2025
|
By: Dion Protani
|
|
The lakeside town of Gardone Riviera is situated within the Province of Brescia and has a population of around 3,000.
It stands at an elevation of 71 metres above sea level and is included in the list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy). Places of interest nearby include Toscolano-Maderno, Salò, Desenzano del Garda and Brescia. |
|
Related links
Gardone Riviera Overview
Gardone Riviera, located in the Lombardy region, is a charming town situated along the western shore of Lake Garda, known for its beautiful lakeside views and lush gardens. Surrounded by the scenic landscapes of the lake and the surrounding mountains, Gardone Riviera offers visitors a tranquil yet picturesque setting, ideal for enjoying both natural beauty and historical landmarks. The town’s elegant atmosphere and proximity to the lake make it a popular destination for those seeking a mix of relaxation and culture.
The town is famous for its Vittoriale degli Italiani, a historic estate and former residence of poet Gabriele D’Annunzio, which is now a museum showcasing his life and artistic works. The estate features beautiful gardens, impressive architecture, and stunning views of the lake. Visitors can also explore the Giardino Botanico André Heller, a botanical garden with exotic plants, sculptures, and fountains.
The town’s lakeside promenade offers a relaxing spot for walks, where visitors can enjoy views of the lake, dine in lakeside restaurants, and explore local shops. For outdoor enthusiasts, Gardone Riviera provides access to a range of hiking trails that lead into the surrounding hills, offering panoramic views of the lake and the nearby mountains. The town’s combination of natural beauty, history, and culture makes it a unique destination on the shores of Lake Garda.
The town is famous for its Vittoriale degli Italiani, a historic estate and former residence of poet Gabriele D’Annunzio, which is now a museum showcasing his life and artistic works. The estate features beautiful gardens, impressive architecture, and stunning views of the lake. Visitors can also explore the Giardino Botanico André Heller, a botanical garden with exotic plants, sculptures, and fountains.
The town’s lakeside promenade offers a relaxing spot for walks, where visitors can enjoy views of the lake, dine in lakeside restaurants, and explore local shops. For outdoor enthusiasts, Gardone Riviera provides access to a range of hiking trails that lead into the surrounding hills, offering panoramic views of the lake and the nearby mountains. The town’s combination of natural beauty, history, and culture makes it a unique destination on the shores of Lake Garda.
Top Things to Do in Gardone Riviera
- Il Vittoriale degli Italiani: This hillside estate was the home of poet and soldier Gabriele D’Annunzio and is now one of the most visited attractions on Lake Garda. The complex includes gardens, museums, a warship embedded in the hillside, and D’Annunzio’s elaborately decorated residence. It offers insight into Italy’s early 20th-century cultural and political history, as well as panoramic views over the lake.
- Giardino Botanico André Heller: This botanical garden, created in the early 20th century, features a diverse range of plant species from around the world, set among streams, sculptures, and winding paths. Today managed by the André Heller Foundation, it combines natural beauty with artistic expression in a peaceful lakeside setting.
- Lakeside Promenade and Historic Hotels: The elegant waterfront of Gardone Riviera is lined with palm trees, Belle Époque buildings, and historic hotels that reflect the town’s development as a health resort in the late 19th century. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed stroll along the promenade or stop at cafés and restaurants with views over the water.
- Boat Excursions on Lake Garda: From the local ferry terminal, visitors can join boat trips to other Lake Garda destinations such as Sirmione, Salò, and Malcesine. These journeys provide a scenic way to explore the lake’s historic towns and are available on both scheduled ferries and private excursions.
- Day Trip to Salò: Just a short drive or boat ride away, Salò offers a larger historic centre with elegant arcades, churches, and a lakeside promenade. It is also home to the MuSa Museum, which explores local history, art, and culture, making it a worthwhile extension to a visit to Gardone Riviera.
Comune di Gardone Riviera
|
Province: Brescia
Region: Lombardy Population: 2,607 (in 2024 - source) Size: 20 km² Elevation: 71 metres Highlights: Vittoriale degli Italiani, André Heller Botanical Garden Water quality: Blue Flag Beach 2024 - 2025 Close by: Toscolano-Maderno, Salò, Desenzano del Garda, Brescia |
|
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: Città Giardino (Garden Town) |
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)
Since: 2010 1 of 11 in Lombardy listed by Touring Club Italiano |
My recommended accommodation options for Gardone Riviera:
- Grand Hotel Fasano Set directly on the lake with expansive gardens and a private dock, this five-star hotel offers luxurious rooms, an extensive wellness centre, outdoor and indoor pools, and gourmet dining. Guests appreciate the refined atmosphere, impeccable service, and lakefront location near the André Heller Garden. €€€€ (luxury)
- Hotel Villa Florida Suites & Suite Apartments Located on the hillside with panoramic views over Lake Garda, this elegant hotel features suites and apartments with kitchens or kitchenettes, a pool, and a terrace overlooking the water. Visitors enjoy the quiet setting, attention to detail, and helpful staff. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel Monte Baldo e Villa Acquarone Situated right on the lakefront near the centre of Gardone Riviera, this hotel offers rooms in a historic villa with private beach access, a garden, and a jetty. Guests value the lakeside setting, classic decor, and walking distance to cafés and attractions. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel Bella Riva A boutique hotel set in a historic villa on the lakeshore, offering modern rooms, an outdoor pool, lakefront dining, and lush garden space. Guests praise the stylish interiors, attentive staff, and location close to the ferry stop. €€€€ (luxury)
- B&B Antico Brolo Located in a quieter part of town, this charming bed and breakfast offers comfortable rooms with traditional furnishings, a peaceful courtyard, and homemade breakfast. Visitors appreciate the warm welcome, authentic feel, and short walk to the lakeside promenade. €€ (mid-range)
My recommended restaurants in Gardone Riviera:
- Ristorante La Veranda: Situated near the lakeside, Ristorante La Veranda offers a variety of Italian and Mediterranean dishes, including fresh seafood and local meats. The restaurant’s outdoor seating area provides stunning views of Lake Garda, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Osteria al Porto: Located near the town centre, Osteria al Porto specializes in traditional Italian cuisine, including risotto, homemade pasta, and fresh fish. The rustic interior and friendly service create a welcoming atmosphere for a casual dining experience. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Il Fiore: Found near the historic centre, Ristorante Il Fiore offers a refined menu featuring local ingredients and traditional Italian dishes. The intimate and elegant setting makes it an ideal choice for a special occasion. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Trattoria Da Angelo: Situated near the seafront, Trattoria Da Angelo serves classic Italian dishes, including pizza, pasta, and seafood, all made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The outdoor seating area with lake views enhances the relaxed atmosphere of this family-friendly restaurant. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Pizzeria La Stua: Located in Salò (approximately 10 km from Gardone Riviera), Ristorante Pizzeria La Stua offers a mix of traditional Italian dishes and wood-fired pizzas. The restaurant’s welcoming interior and outdoor seating area make it a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Gardone Riviera Gallery
Close to Gardone Riviera
- Salò (approx. 10 km northeast of Gardone Riviera): A historic town located on the western shore of Lake Garda, Salò offers stunning lake views and a charming town centre. The Duomo di Santa Maria Annunziata and the Palazzo della Magnifica Patria are key historical landmarks. Visitors can stroll along the lakeside promenade, relax in local cafes, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the town.
- Toscolano-Maderno (approx. 15 km southwest of Gardone Riviera): A charming lakeside town on the western shore of Lake Garda, Toscolano-Maderno is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the nearby Parco Alto Garda Bresciano, enjoy hiking trails, or visit the Museo della Carta, a museum dedicated to the history of paper production in the region.
- Bardolino (approx. 40 km northeast of Gardone Riviera): Situated on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, Bardolino is renowned for its vineyards and wine production. The town's Chiesa di San Severo and charming historic centre are must-sees. Visitors can relax by the lakeside, sample local wines, and explore the beautiful Parco Termale del Garda, a natural thermal park offering relaxation and wellness experiences.
- Sirmione (approx. 50 km southeast of Gardone Riviera): Famous for its medieval Scaliger Castle and the Grotte di Catullo Roman ruins, Sirmione is a popular destination on Lake Garda. Visitors can explore the town’s cobbled streets, enjoy the thermal baths, or take a boat tour around the peninsula to admire the surrounding scenery. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning views make it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration.
- Riva del Garda (approx. 75 km north of Gardone Riviera): A town at the northern tip of Lake Garda, Riva del Garda is surrounded by impressive mountains, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The Forte Garda and the Piazza 3 Novembre are notable landmarks. The town offers various water activities, hiking opportunities, and a vibrant historical centre with cafes and shops.
Lake Garda Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations
1. Limone sul Garda
2. Sirmione
3. Peschiera del Garda
4. Riva del Garda
5. Malcesine
6. Lazise
7. Salò
8. Desenzano del Garda
9. Bardolino
10. Gargnano
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit on Lake Garda
1. Limone sul Garda
2. Sirmione
3. Peschiera del Garda
4. Riva del Garda
5. Malcesine
6. Lazise
7. Salò
8. Desenzano del Garda
9. Bardolino
10. Gargnano
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit on Lake Garda
Gardone Riviera Travel
By Rail: Gardone Riviera does not have its own railway station. The nearest major station is in Desenzano del Garda, approximately 25 kilometres to the south. Trenitalia operates frequent services from Milan and Venice to Desenzano del Garda, with journey times of about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Milan and 1 hour and 45 minutes from Venice. From Desenzano del Garda, travellers can continue to Gardone Riviera by bus or ferry.
By Road: Gardone Riviera is approximately 100 kilometres east of Milan and about 70 kilometres west of Verona. Driving from Milan takes around 2 hours via the A4 motorway, exiting at Brescia Est, and then following the SP45 and SS45bis roads along the western shore of Lake Garda. From Verona, the journey is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A4 motorway, exiting at Desenzano del Garda, and then following the SS45bis road north along the lake. The roads along the lake can be narrow and winding, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Nearest International Airports:
Lake Garda Ferries: Gardone Riviera is well-served by ferry services on Lake Garda, providing a scenic and convenient means of transportation to various lakeside towns. The ferry terminal in Gardone Riviera offers regular services to destinations such as Sirmione, Desenzano del Garda, Riva del Garda, and Malcesine. Both passenger ferries and car ferries operate on the lake, with options for faster hydrofoil services or more leisurely standard boats. Ferry schedules and routes vary seasonally, so it is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.
By Road: Gardone Riviera is approximately 100 kilometres east of Milan and about 70 kilometres west of Verona. Driving from Milan takes around 2 hours via the A4 motorway, exiting at Brescia Est, and then following the SP45 and SS45bis roads along the western shore of Lake Garda. From Verona, the journey is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A4 motorway, exiting at Desenzano del Garda, and then following the SS45bis road north along the lake. The roads along the lake can be narrow and winding, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Nearest International Airports:
- Verona Villafranca Airport (Aeroporto di Verona-Villafranca): Located about 65 kilometres southeast of Gardone Riviera, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes via the A4 motorway, exiting at Desenzano del Garda, and then following the SS45bis road. From the airport, travellers can take a shuttle bus to Verona Porta Nuova railway station, then a train to Desenzano del Garda, followed by a bus or ferry to Gardone Riviera.
- Milan Bergamo Airport (Orio al Serio International Airport): Situated around 90 kilometres west of Gardone Riviera, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes via the A4 motorway, exiting at Brescia Est, and then following the SP45 and SS45bis roads. Public transport options from Bergamo Airport to Gardone Riviera are limited; travellers can take a bus to Bergamo railway station, then a train to Brescia or Desenzano del Garda, followed by a bus or ferry to Gardone Riviera.
Lake Garda Ferries: Gardone Riviera is well-served by ferry services on Lake Garda, providing a scenic and convenient means of transportation to various lakeside towns. The ferry terminal in Gardone Riviera offers regular services to destinations such as Sirmione, Desenzano del Garda, Riva del Garda, and Malcesine. Both passenger ferries and car ferries operate on the lake, with options for faster hydrofoil services or more leisurely standard boats. Ferry schedules and routes vary seasonally, so it is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.
