Desenzano Lake Village

Can’t get enough of the Lake Garda views? (Quite understandable…) Once you’ve dawdled around in Desenzano del Garda (checking out its fortress, Roman villa and archaeology museum), head over to pretty Peschiera del Garda (20 minutes’ drive) to look out for frescoes, floral displays and fortified walls. There’s also a good watersports setup over here, and a dog-friendly beach where pooches can paddle. Another splendid change of scenery comes from a trip to Sirmione (25 minutes’ drive), to wander through its labyrinth of little streets before heading out to the fairytale-like castle by the water. If that gives you a taste for more urban strolls, try out Brescia (35 minutes), Verona (40 minutes) and the Old Town of Bergamo (an hour). Need something a little more action-packed (perhaps for the kids)? Head to Gardaland (25 minutes) for a day of rides and critter-spotting at the aquarium, or pack your cossies to splash around at Prato Blu waterpark or Parco Cavour (35 minutes).