Culture
Head away from the central areas and around each winding corner stumble upon another highlight of the old town. The Roman Villa, discovered in 1921, is one of the last remaining examples of this architectural style in Northern Italy. Imagine soldiers and swords when you wander over the beautifully intricate mosaic floors. For art, Il Duomo, a 16th century Cathedral, dedicated to Santa Maria Maddalena is a cool and calm haven showing famous works by Andrea Celesti, and Gian Battista Tiepolo along with more impressive architecture.
To see the true diversity of the area, hire a bike or take a stroll and explore the isolating country trails through the Lugana vineyards. If you’re happy to go a bit further, the trails take you straight to San Martino della Battaglia, and the site of the Battle of Solferino. Get swept up in battle stories as you climb the steep ascent to stand in awe at the huge memorial tower. At the top there’s a lovely little restaurant where you can take a breather, soak up the sun and work on your Italian as the locals gossip away. Why not try -- Climb the recently refurbished tower of Desnzano’s Medieval Castle and get your cameras ready for the stunning views over the lake.
- Get swept through Il Porto Vecchio with the sights, sounds and smells of the extravagant weekly market.
- Head to the Piazza Malvezzi for an after dinner drink and catch impromptu live music and street entertainers
Active
· lake bathing · open-air pool in high season - 2km away · pedaloes · tennis (5 courts) 3km from centre · windsurfing · golf at Soiano course 7km away · Canevaworld waterpark and Gardaland theme park 20km away