Garda, Italy

Italy is the most captivating country blessed with beautiful landscapes, rich history, world famous art, incredible architecture and fabulous cuisine. So, why not come and join us as we visit the spectacular Italian northern lake region for a wonderful autumnal break.

The Italian Lakes are fringed by dramatic mountains and picture-perfect towns nestling along serene shores. There are five major lakes in the region and we are to be located in the heart at Lake Garda, the largest body of water in the country. Lake Garda is an area of contrasts with mountainous landscapes to the north and rolling hills to the south. You will be spoilt for places to visit as the lake has 21 towns and villages on its shores, each with their own particular uniqueness, and an efficient and reliable ferry service means it is easy to explore.

We are to be based above the town of Garda, on the east side of the Lake, in the 4-star Poiano Holiday Resort, surrounded by lush Mediterranean greenery with breathtaking views.  The central building accommodates a spa, reception, restaurant and a panoramic terrace.  The bedrooms and conference centre are in a separate building.  Due to the extensive size of the hotel and the number of steps, the location may not be suitable for guests with limited or restricted mobility. The resort offers many possibilities for recreation such as two swimming pools, golf, a gym, and table tennis.  There is a complementary shuttle bus service from the hotel to the resort of Garda, which are 300 metres apart. (Please be aware that the walk back to the hotel can be challenging as it is uphill.)

Included in the cost of the holiday is a day tour to the medieval town of Bergamo where we will take a cable car up to the old city, a UNESCO heritage site with narrow cobblestone streets, stunning architecture, and 16th-century Venetian walls.  You might also sample sweet and savoury cuisine unique to the region.  On the return journey we will visit Lake Iseo, an unspoiled area with pretty villages and panoramic views, shops and cafés.