In Italy, the northern region of Trentino comprises glittering Italian lakes, craggy mountains, and pretty towns. While Lake Garda is the most famous body of water here, this alpine municipality has hundreds of postcard-perfect corners to explore.
Whether you’re taking a trip to Garda and wondering what else is out there, or you’re keen to sidestep the throngs (and new tourist tax) altogether, there’s plenty more to see here. Beyond its glassy lagoons, Trentino encapsulates the Brenta Dolomites, the part of the mountain range designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
In the autonomous capital of Trento, you can wander through cobblestone streets, flit between aperitivo bars and shops, admire the frescoes inside its medieval castle, or hike in the hills. Choose to either base yourself in Trento or park up on the sparkling shores of one of the below lagos and check into a boutique hotel, where epic views come as standard. Such is life among these Italian lakes.
Lakes Caldonazzo and Levico
Just 10 minutes apart by car, Caldonazzo and Levico in the Sugana Valley have watersports and spa culture nailed down between them. Caldonazzo offers kayaking, windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and waterskiing (the only lake in Trentino to do so). Onshore, you can rent a bike and explore the waterfront or simply relax at one of its Blue Flag beaches. Pizzeria Ristorante Riviera cooks up a storm; whether it’s a fresh, hand-pulled pizza or seafood linguine you’re craving, leave room for dessert.
After lunch, traverse the smaller Lake Levico, another fine lagoon with beach bars and restaurants, soft lawns for sunbathing, and watersports. As a guest at Parc Hotel du Lac, you can access a private beach (most useful during the peak summer months). You’ll find regional dishes and Italian crowd-pleasers on the à la carte menu in La Taverna downstairs. Alternatively, indulge in Levico’s renowned spa culture at Hotel Ambassador in the forest between the lake and town.