Italy is brimming with hidden gems waiting to be discovered, but oftentimes travelers are too mesmerized by Rome’s astounding history, the Amalfi Coast’s stunning coastlines, and Venice’s romantic charm.
Having said that, going beyond the major cities and popular beach towns has all the makings for an adventure of a lifetime.
Whether it’s zipping through narrow back-alleys by Vespa, eating authentic meals away from the tourist traps, or in this case, opting for gorgeous blue-water lakes over oceans, Italy is a never-ending playground.
Those with a sense of adventure don’t have to deal with the crowds of Italy’s crowded cities, this quaint lakeside town home to medieval castles and scenic flowing canals is the perfect Italian getaway.
Canals, Lakes, And Medieval History: Lazise Is Italy’s Mod Podge Of Fun
It’s amazing how many travelers have never heard of this place. Lazise is located near the city of Verona, the only recognizable neighbor in the region and easily connected across Europe.
That is unless you know the name of Lake Garda, a cheaper Lake Como alternative that many would argue is just as pretty without the social status bragging rights.
Any way you slice it, Lazise is the Italian vacation you didn’t know you needed. Quite literally, it checks off all the boxes of other Italian treasures.
Rome? No, there’s no Colosseum here, but history lovers will be enthralled by the picturesque town’s surrounding Dubrovnik-esque walls and Lazise Castle, a 9th-century Medieval marvel.
While lacking alligator-infested moats, it still serves as a proud symbol for Lazise’s historical timeline and is well worth a visit.
Venice? Not quite. Does any place live up to this Italian icon?
But, the photo-worthy flowing canals trickling off the blue waters of Lake Gorda will have you mesmerized for strolls through the charming streets or even taking a romantic boat ride – yes, just like Venice.
The Amalfi Coast? Few places in Italy rival the Amalfi Coast, but coming here, you won’t be disappointed by Lake Gorda’s astounding beauty and vivid blue waters.
There are nice beaches for some much-desired sun and sand, including a dog beach and local favorite, Spiaggia delle Rose, perfect to spend warm 85 degree days for the remainder of summer.
Wine And Dine In Lazise: Savor the Lake Garda Lifestyle
Is indulging in Italian cuisine ever a bad idea?
It is, actually. If you’re welcomed by a waiter saying, “when you’re here, you’re family”, then you’re in the wrong place!
Fortunately, if you find yourself with a menu in hand in Lazise, look no further. This unsuspecting town will take you on an incredible culinary journey.
Firstly, Lazise seems to believe wine makes the world go round. You’d be doing yourself a disservice not joining a wine tour offered both in the city center and beyond the hustle and bustle into the countryside.
No matter who you choose as your intenditore di vino, expect to pay between $30 – $50.
Second, you can pass on garlic breadsticks and salad with parmesan overload in place of real, authentic Italian dishes.
Being a lakeside town, local catches are a common sight on ‘specials of the day’ along with Italian staples, such as spaghetti with clams and gnocchi with gorgonzola.
Top-rated Ristorante Vecchia Dogana, described as the ‘perfect combination of innovation and tradition’ is the place to absorb Lake Gorda’s incomparable scenery and let your diet stay back home.
And if you’re around on Wednesday mornings, peruse the local lively market for people-watching and decadent treats.
The ‘Blue Lagoon’ Of Italy?
There is no need to fly to one of Europe’s most expensive countries to check off a common bucket-list destination, Iceland’s world-famous Blue Lagoon.
Villa dei Cedri is a thermal park, spa retreat, and nice hotel all wrapped up in one. While there are no volcanic mountains in the background, Lake Gorda’s vibrant scenery isn’t a bad backup plan.
The site’s thermal lakes offer an array of therapeutic benefits of the natural thermal waters in both the outdoor and indoor pools.
Plus, you can add extra spa services to pamper yourself for the ultimate relaxing getaway. Hotel rates are $177 throughout August.
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