Weekends and New Year's Eve among the villages and landscapes of Lake Garda

First day

Upon arrival at the the hotel overlooking Lake Garda. With our expert guide, we’ll take our first walk along the lake to Pai di Sopra , and—perhaps over an aperitif—we’ll go over the itinerary for the coming days, which includes easy hikes and scenic walks. It’s the perfect opportunity to start immersing yourself in the rejuvenating atmosphere of Lake Garda, with its enchanting views and the crisp air of winter and early spring. We’ll discover the magic of Lake Garda during a season other than the usual summer, when the villages are aglow with Christmas lights and handcrafted nativity scenes, and nature offers surprising colors. Dinner at the hotel, featuring a menu that emphasizes simplicity and the authenticity of local ingredients.

Second day

We'll leave right after breakfast and head to the town of Garda, following scenic trails that blend modernity and mystery. We’ll cross a brand-new Tibetan bridge and pass through the ancient village of Crero, walking among stunning contemporary villas and the ancient Pilgrim’s Trail, always with our gaze fixed on the blue waters of the lake. Our walk holds unique gems in store for us: Punta San Vigilio, a fairytale village that seems suspended in time. The Baia delle Sirene, a magical place shrouded in ancient legends. Finally, we’ll immerse ourselves in the festive atmosphere of the grand Garda Christmas Market. We’ll return to Pai by bus to raise a toast together to this day (and to this year that’s coming to a close).

Third day

After a very short drive, we arrive in the area around Garda. From here, step by step, we climb toward our first stop, the Colle di San Giorgio. Here stands the ancient Camaldolese Hermitage, an oasis of peace. We’ll have the opportunity to visit the splendid historic little church, while respecting the services being held. Before setting off again, we’ll stop by the hermitage’s charming little shop to purchase products grown and crafted directly by the monks. We’ll then make our way to the Rocca di Garda, with a breathtaking view overlooking the Garda beach—perfect for your photos! Finally, we’ll descend from the hill to enjoy some free time among Garda’s quaint alleys before returning to Torri del Benaco for some relaxation and dinner.

Note: This applies only to the 4-day New Year’s program.

Fourth day

Breakfast, and off we go—in just a few minutes by bus, we arrive at Castelletto di Brenzone, where we’ll start walking along an ancient mule trail—it’ll feel like we’re in the Tuscan hills—all the way to Campo, the famous abandoned village. The hamlet is said to have existed since 1023, and time here truly seems to have stood still since the Middle Ages. From December through February, the event Presepi a Campo: the small hamlet transforms into a magnificent Christmas village dotted with nativity scenes of all sizes and Christmas characters. We’ll head down to the lake for a stroll along the lakeshore. We’ll see all the tiny, colorful harbors and cross the world’s shortest river. Once we arrive in Malcesine, we’ll have time to visit the castle, the museum, and the narrow streets of this Garda-area village. We’ll return to the hotel by public bus. It’s time to say goodbye—see you on our next walk together!