Visiting Gardone Riviera

“Certain memories are enough to perfume a soul forever.” This is what Gabriele D’Annunzio wrote in “The Child of Pleasure”, one of his most famous novels. And this is what everyone experiences when visiting Gardone Riviera for the first time: they will be forever under its spell.

Gardone Riviera, one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy

Located a few kilometers north of Salò along the western coast of Lake Garda (Brescia side), Gardone Riviera is a hidden gem. Inscribed on the list of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy, it’s one of the two Lake Garda locations which obtained this recognition (the other one is Tremosine). This enchanting town is surrounded by mountains with several hiking trails and has a lovely historic center. In addition, D’Annunzio’s house, the Vittoriale degli Italiani, is one of the most famous buildings in Gardone.

But that’s not all! Come with us and discover all the unmissable attractions in Gardone Riviera!

History, art, and culture. From Vittoriale to the places of the Republic of Salò

Gardone Riviera has the privilege of hosting one of the most important museums and mausoleums in the country: it’s the Vittoriale degli Italiani, an eccentric complex of buildings erected starting from 1921 following the indications of Gabriele D’Annunzio’s genius mind.

A short stay was enough for the Italian “Vate” to fall in love with this magical place, so much so that he decided to purchase the property and build a monument to his own life and the variety of activities in which he engaged: from literature and journalism to military actions.

The result is a brilliant monumental complex organized on multiple levels and set in an unparalleled environment with buildings, paths, gardens, water streams, and the well-known Vittoriale Amphitheater – where the Tener-a-mente Festival is held each year and turns Gardone’s summer into an exciting stage for the most acclaimed national and international music stars. One of the most visited sites of the Vittoriale is the Mausoleum where the poet rests, built on the upper portion of the complex with an unobstructed view of the lake.

In the 1940s, Gardone Riviera was in the international spotlight for yet another historical reason. Indeed, over 20 buildings in the town became government offices and residences for political leaders during the Republic of Salò era.

Fun facts: the Grand Hotel Gardone and the Grand Hotel Fasano were used as military hospitals, whereas Villa Fiordaliso (now a hotel) was the home of Claretta Petacci, Mussolini’s young mistress. Learn more about the sites of the Social Republic at Lake Garda.

Gardone Riviera: nature and relaxation by the lake

Nature is the undisputed protagonist of Gardone Riviera. Among the many outdoor attractions, the André Heller Botanic Garden boasts an invaluable collection which reflects the passion and extravagance of his founder, Dr. Arthur Hruska.

The unique design of this garden includes Japanese-style gardens, water streams, grottos, lily pads, artificial ponds, rock formations, and Dolomite rocks. A journey around the world awaits visitors, as over 3,000 different plant varieties from all climate zones manage to coexist in the Lake Garda area thanks to its mild climate. A rather peculiar collection ranging from Tibet primrose to bamboo forests and colorful irises. The garden is dotted with sculptures by Keith Haring, Mimmo Paladino, Roy Lichtenstein, and other contemporary artists.

You can keep relaxing with a walk along the D’Annunzio lakefront, the perfect destination for a romantic stroll by the lake. From here, you can enjoy stunning views of the lake and the most beautiful villas along Lake Garda while being caressed by a gentle lake breeze. Many bars and restaurants are available for a cozy aperitif or a romantic dinner.

Finally, we highly recommend visiting the old core of Gardone Riviera with its picturesque alleys, old stairs, and colorful houses displaying splendid floral arrangements.

Churches, art, and religious buildings

There are two main religious buildings that you can’t miss in Gardone Riviera. The first is the parish church of San Nicolò di Bari (via dei Caduti 26), guarding interesting frescoes and three medallions on the vault attributed to famous local artist Francesco Monti.

The second is the charming Evangelic Lutheran church near the Vittoriale, characterized by an unusual Gothic Revival architecture and a lovely garden overlooking the lake.

During your stay in Gardone Riviera we recommend a visit to the Il Divino Infante Museum Foundation, an interesting collection of over 200 sculptures dedicated to the Baby Jesus, the Madonna and the Neapolitan nativity scene. A one-of-a-kind exhibition for a journey through four centuries, born from the passion of German fine collector and restorer Hiky Mayr.

SPAs and wellness centers

Those who are passionate about SPA and wellness center vacations can rejoice: SPA hotels and resorts in Gardone Riviera will surely fulfil their desire for relaxation and unforgettable moments. Wellness, beauty farms, hydromassage, custom-designed massage packages: check the list of Gardone Riviera hotels and choose what best fits your needs.

Sports in Gardone Riviera

Are you looking for an active vacation on Lake Garda? Search no further! In Gardone Riviera, you can experience the thrill of a day of sailing or a kitesurf lesson. For the brave at heart, paragliding flights are also available.