Gardone Riviera
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Latest page update: 20 February 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The lakeside town of Gardone Riviera is located on the western shore of Lake Garda in the province of Brescia, Lombardy.
With a population of around 2,500, it is most famous for the Vittoriale degli Italiani, a historic villa and museum once home to poet Gabriele D’Annunzio. Nearby attractions include the town of Salò and the natural beauty of the surrounding hills. |
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Gardone Riviera: home of Gabriele D'Annunzio's Vittoriale degli Italiani
Gardone Riviera, nestled on the western shore of Lake Garda, is a refined lakeside town celebrated for its historical charm and lush botanical beauty. Its origins date back to medieval times, but it gained prominence in the 19th century as an elegant retreat for the European elite.
The town’s highlight is the Vittoriale degli Italiani, an eclectic hillside estate once home to poet and soldier Gabriele D’Annunzio. The estate includes a grand villa, gardens, a museum, and even a battleship. Another must-see is the Heller Garden, a botanical paradise featuring exotic plants, sculptures, and serene water features.
Reaching Gardone Riviera is easy via train to Desenzano or Brescia, followed by a short bus or ferry ride. Nearby attractions include Sirmione's Roman ruins, Limone sul Garda's lemon groves, and hiking trails on Monte Baldo, making Gardone a perfect base for exploring Lake Garda’s wonders.
The town’s highlight is the Vittoriale degli Italiani, an eclectic hillside estate once home to poet and soldier Gabriele D’Annunzio. The estate includes a grand villa, gardens, a museum, and even a battleship. Another must-see is the Heller Garden, a botanical paradise featuring exotic plants, sculptures, and serene water features.
Reaching Gardone Riviera is easy via train to Desenzano or Brescia, followed by a short bus or ferry ride. Nearby attractions include Sirmione's Roman ruins, Limone sul Garda's lemon groves, and hiking trails on Monte Baldo, making Gardone a perfect base for exploring Lake Garda’s wonders.
Comune di Gardone Riviera
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Province: Brescia
Region: Lombardy Population: 2,607 (in 2024 - source) Size: 20 km² Elevation: 71 metres Highlights: Vittoriale degli Italiani, André Heller Botanical Garden Water quality: Blue Flag Beach 2024-2025 Travel facilities: ferries and buses Close by: Toscolano-Maderno, Salò, Desenzano del Garda, Brescia Recommended accommodation: Grand Hotel Fasano |
What are the best hotels in Gardone Riviera?
- Grand Hotel Fasano: A historic 5-star hotel situated directly on the lakefront, offering elegant rooms, a modern wellness center, and a 12,000 m² park with a swimming pool. Guests appreciate its gourmet restaurants and terrace overlooking Lake Garda.
- Hotel Bella Riva: This luxury 5-star hotel is set right on the shore of Lake Garda, surrounded by a large garden with a swimming pool and barbecue facilities. Guests praise its beautiful location and excellent service.
- Hotel Villa Del Sogno: Set in beautiful green grounds that slope down towards the lakeside, this hotel offers fin-de-siècle charm, excellent services, and spectacular views across Lake Garda. Guests enjoy its elegant rooms and attentive staff.
- Hotel Villa Florida & Suite Apartments: Offering outstanding service and panoramic views across Lake Garda, this hotel is set in 6 hectares of olive groves and floral gardens. Guests appreciate its beautiful rooms and serene atmosphere.
- Eden Reserve Hotel: This modern hotel offers an outdoor pool, spa facilities, and a sun terrace. Guests value its contemporary design, excellent service, and proximity to local attractions.
What's the best way to reach Gardone Riviera?
Gardone Riviera, located on the western shore of Lake Garda in northern Italy, is accessible by various modes of transport. The nearest major airport is Verona Villafranca (VRN), about 65 km away, offering both domestic and international flights. Milan Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY) is another option, around 90 km away. From these airports, travelers can rent a car or take a train to Desenzano del Garda, the closest railway station, and continue by bus or taxi.
By road, Gardone Riviera is reached via the A4 motorway, exiting at Desenzano or Brescia Est, followed by a scenic drive along the lake.
Ferries connect Gardone Riviera to other Lake Garda towns, including Sirmione and Riva del Garda. Local buses run between Brescia, Salò, and Gardone, making public transport a convenient option for reaching the area.
By road, Gardone Riviera is reached via the A4 motorway, exiting at Desenzano or Brescia Est, followed by a scenic drive along the lake.
Ferries connect Gardone Riviera to other Lake Garda towns, including Sirmione and Riva del Garda. Local buses run between Brescia, Salò, and Gardone, making public transport a convenient option for reaching the area.
Gardone Riviera Gallery
Where are the best places to eat in Gardone Riviera?
- Lido 84: Awarded one Michelin star and ranked No. 7 in The World's 50 Best Restaurants, Lido 84 offers creative Italian cuisine in a stunning lakeside setting.
- Il Fagiano: Located within the Grand Hotel Fasano, Il Fagiano holds one Michelin star and serves innovative dishes that blend traditional Italian flavors with modern techniques.
- Villa Fiordaliso: Set in an Art Nouveau villa, this Michelin-listed restaurant provides an elegant dining experience with a menu focusing on refined Italian cuisine.
- Osteria Antico Brolo: Situated in Gardone Sopra, this Michelin-listed osteria offers regional and seasonal dishes in a rustic and relaxed atmosphere.
- Ristorante Nicholas: A chic restaurant on the lake promenade, Ristorante Nicholas provides excellent Italian cuisine with beautiful views of Lake Garda.
