Sunday, July 11, 2010

Lake Garda (Lago di Garda), Italy

Photo 1: Val di Sogno, Lake Garda

Photo 2: Lake Garda at sunset, view from Malcesine

Lake Garda (in Italian, Lago di Garda or Benaco) having a surface area of about 370 sq km is the largest lake in Italy. Located in Northern Italy, about half-way between Venice and Milan, the lake is 52 km long with a width of 16.7 km at its widest part and the deepest point hast a depth of 346 meters. The lake has a number of small islands, the largest being Isola del Garda. The sulphur springs here have a reputation for healing catarrhal conditions, particularly those involving the ear.

The lake is a major tourist destination and has a number of exclusive hotels and resorts along its shores. The ancient fortified town of Sirmione, located on the south of the lake, is a particularly popular destination, home to the Virgilio & Catullo Spa Complexes, as well as numerous restaurants, bars, hotels, fashion stores, a market, and the picturesque 13th century Scaliger Castle. Gardaland, one of the most famous theme parks in Italy is quite nearby.

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