Toscolano Maderno
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Latest page update: 4 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The lakeside location of Toscolano Maderno is situated in the Province of Brescia, on the shores of Lake Garda. It has a population of around 8,000 residents and is located a distance of 131 kilometres east of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.
Nearby places of interest include Gardone Riviera, Salò, Gargnano and Desenzano del Garda. |
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Toscolano Maderno Overview
Toscolano-Maderno, located in the Lombardy region, is a picturesque town situated on the western shore of Lake Garda, surrounded by the scenic beauty of the lake and the nearby mountains. The town, formed in 1928 by the union of Toscolano and Maderno, offers visitors a charming blend of history, natural beauty, and lakeside atmosphere. With its narrow streets, lakeside promenade, and stunning views, Toscolano-Maderno is a peaceful destination that captures the essence of the Lake Garda region.
Toscolano-Maderno is famous for its historical significance, with Toscolano known for its paper mills dating back to the 14th century, and Maderno home to the Basilica of Sant'Andrea, a Romanesque church dating from the 12th century. Visitors can explore the Museo della Carta, a museum dedicated to the history of paper production in the region. The town is also home to the Orto Botanico G.E. Ghirardi, a botanical garden that showcases a wide variety of plant species.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Toscolano-Maderno offers several hiking and cycling trails that lead through the surrounding mountains and forests, offering breathtaking views of Lake Garda and the landscape. The town’s lakeside beaches, such as Spiaggia di Maderno, are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the Mediterranean climate. Toscolano-Maderno’s mix of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural attractions makes it a fantastic base for exploring the Lake Garda region.
Toscolano-Maderno is famous for its historical significance, with Toscolano known for its paper mills dating back to the 14th century, and Maderno home to the Basilica of Sant'Andrea, a Romanesque church dating from the 12th century. Visitors can explore the Museo della Carta, a museum dedicated to the history of paper production in the region. The town is also home to the Orto Botanico G.E. Ghirardi, a botanical garden that showcases a wide variety of plant species.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Toscolano-Maderno offers several hiking and cycling trails that lead through the surrounding mountains and forests, offering breathtaking views of Lake Garda and the landscape. The town’s lakeside beaches, such as Spiaggia di Maderno, are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the Mediterranean climate. Toscolano-Maderno’s mix of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural attractions makes it a fantastic base for exploring the Lake Garda region.
Top Things to Do in Toscolano-Maderno
- Lungolago Zanardelli and Waterfront: The lakeside promenade in Toscolano-Maderno stretches along the western shore of Lake Garda, offering wide views across the water and access to beaches, cafés, and the ferry terminal. The promenade connects the two formerly separate towns of Toscolano and Maderno, creating a continuous waterfront ideal for walking and relaxing.
- Basilica di Sant’Andrea: Located in Maderno, this Romanesque church dates back to the 12th century and features a striking façade with carved portals and decorative arches. The interior contains frescoes and religious artworks from various periods, and the basilica remains one of the most significant historic buildings on the lake’s western side.
- Valle delle Cartiere: Just inland from the centre, the Valley of the Paper Mills is a green canyon where Toscolano’s paper industry once thrived. Visitors can follow walking trails through the valley to explore old paper mills, waterfalls, and the Paper Museum, which explains the history and techniques of handmade paper production in the area.
- Lido di Maderno and Beaches: The town offers several swimming areas, including the sandy Lido Azzurro and pebble beaches with calm waters suitable for families. Facilities include sunbed rentals, shaded areas, and nearby eateries, making it a popular place to spend a full day by the lake.
- Day Trip to Gardone Riviera: Just a few minutes south, Gardone Riviera offers the cultural attraction of Il Vittoriale degli Italiani, the hillside estate of poet Gabriele D’Annunzio. The site includes gardens, museums, and lake views, making it an ideal excursion from Toscolano-Maderno.
Comune di Toscolano-Maderno
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Province: Brescia
Region: Lombardy Population: 7,657 (in 2024 - source) Size: 58 km² Elevation: 86 metres Highlights: Spiaggia Toscolano, paragliding, sailing Water quality: Blue Flag Beach 2024 - 2025 Travel facilities: ferry port Close by: Gardone Riviera, Salò, Gargnano, Desenzano del Garda |
My recommended accommodation options for Toscolano Maderno:
- Hotel Villa Maria Au Lac Located right on the lakefront with private beach access, this four-star hotel offers elegant rooms, a peaceful garden, and a restaurant with outdoor seating. Guests appreciate the lakeside setting, comfortable rooms with balconies, and easy access to lakeside walking paths. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel Milano Situated in the centre of Maderno, just steps from the lake and ferry terminal, this family-run hotel features modern rooms, a terrace with lake views, and private parking. Visitors enjoy the central location, kind service, and proximity to beaches, shops, and restaurants. €€ (mid-range)
- Residenza Diana A small complex of self-catering apartments in a quiet area of Toscolano, offering outdoor terraces, full kitchens, and shared garden space. Guests value the independence, cleanliness, and convenient access to the lakeside promenade. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B All’Orologio Positioned in the historical part of Maderno, this bed and breakfast features bright, well-furnished rooms and a homemade breakfast served on a terrace. Visitors enjoy the personal touch, relaxed atmosphere, and short walk to the ferry and beach. €€ (mid-range)
- Villa Igea Set just above the lake, this restored villa offers elegant rooms with period details, a garden with olive trees, and views across Lake Garda. Guests appreciate the peaceful setting, historic charm, and proximity to both Toscolano and Maderno. €€€ (high-end)
My recommended restaurants in Toscolano-Maderno and the local area:
- Il Cortiletto: Situated on the Lake Garda road, Il Cortiletto is a small yet exceptional restaurant known for its Mediterranean dishes with inventive twists. Guests can enjoy alfresco dining in fine weather and should not miss the maccheroncini served with perch and lemon pesto sauce. The establishment has been recognized by the Michelin Guide for its excellence. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria La Sosta: Located in the picturesque village of Cecina, this trattoria offers a unique dining experience with a menu presented directly by the host and chef, Cristian. Specialties include Italian antipasti, homemade pasta, fresh fish, and locally sourced grilled meats, all served at affordable rates. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Cavallino 10: A family-run restaurant offering simple yet refined dishes made from scratch. The excellence of the service and exquisite cuisine make it a delightful choice for either a quick lunch or a romantic dinner in the garden. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Pizzeria Cantinone: Known for its excellent pizzas at great prices, this establishment offers a variety of Italian dishes in a friendly atmosphere. It's a super place for those seeking quality food without breaking the bank. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Lido 84: Located in Fasano del Garda (approximately 10 km from Toscolano-Maderno), this Michelin-starred restaurant offers creative cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. The menu features innovative dishes that pay homage to traditional Italian flavours, making it a must-visit for culinary enthusiasts. Price guide: €€€€ (Special occasion)
Toscolano Maderno Gallery
Close to Toscolano-Maderno
- Gargnano (approx. 10 km north of Toscolano-Maderno): Situated along the western shore of Lake Garda, Gargnano is a peaceful town known for its olive groves and historic buildings. Visitors can explore the charming town centre, visit the Chiesa di San Francesco, or take a walk along the lakeside promenade. The town’s tranquil atmosphere makes it ideal for a relaxing day by the water.
- Salò (approx. 10 km south of Toscolano-Maderno): A historic town with a beautiful lakeside setting, Salò is known for its Duomo di Santa Maria Annunziata and the impressive Palazzo della Magnifica Patria. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant town centre, stroll along the lakeside promenade, or take a boat trip to explore the surrounding area. Salò’s charming cafes and shops add to the town’s welcoming atmosphere.
- Limone sul Garda (approx. 30 km north of Toscolano-Maderno): Famous for its lemon groves, Limone sul Garda offers stunning views of the Brenta Dolomites and Lake Garda. Visitors can explore the town’s narrow streets, visit the Museo del Limone, or enjoy the peaceful lakeside setting. Limone is perfect for relaxing by the water or hiking in the surrounding hills.
- Maderno (approx. 5 km southeast of Toscolano-Maderno): A small town on the southern shores of Lake Garda, Maderno is known for its beautiful beaches and the historic Chiesa di Santa Maria della Neve. Visitors can relax on the lakeside, enjoy a boat trip to nearby destinations, or explore the surrounding natural beauty, which offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities.
- Riva del Garda (approx. 40 km north of Toscolano-Maderno): Situated at the northern tip of Lake Garda, Riva del Garda is surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and water sports. The town itself offers historic sites such as the Forte Garda and the Piazza 3 Novembre, along with a vibrant lakeside promenade for a relaxed day by the water.
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 Towns 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 Towns on Lake Garda
Toscolano-Maderno Travel
By Rail: Toscolano-Maderno does not have its own railway station. The nearest major stations are in Desenzano del Garda and Brescia. From Desenzano del Garda, regional trains connect to Milan and Venice, with journey times of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to both cities. From Brescia, trains offer connections to various Italian destinations. To reach Toscolano-Maderno from these stations, travellers can use bus services or taxis.
By Road: Toscolano-Maderno 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 SP45bis road towards Salò and continuing 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: Toscolano-Maderno 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 Maderno offers regular services to destinations such as Torri del Benaco, with a car ferry operating between Maderno and Torri del Benaco throughout the year. Additionally, passenger ferries connect Maderno to other towns around the lake, including Desenzano del Garda and Riva del Garda. Ferry schedules and routes vary seasonally, so it is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.
By Road: Toscolano-Maderno 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 SP45bis road towards Salò and continuing 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 80 kilometres southeast of Toscolano-Maderno, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 30 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 Toscolano-Maderno.
- Milan Bergamo Airport (Orio al Serio International Airport): Situated around 90 kilometres west of Toscolano-Maderno, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes via the A4 motorway, exiting at Brescia Est, and then following the SP45bis road. Public transport options from Bergamo Airport to Toscolano-Maderno 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 Toscolano-Maderno.
Lake Garda Ferries: Toscolano-Maderno 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 Maderno offers regular services to destinations such as Torri del Benaco, with a car ferry operating between Maderno and Torri del Benaco throughout the year. Additionally, passenger ferries connect Maderno to other towns around the lake, including Desenzano del Garda and Riva del Garda. Ferry schedules and routes vary seasonally, so it is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.
