An excursion to Peschiera del Garda: a fascinating city on the lake

Thanks to a cycle path over 40 km long that originates in Peschiera del Garda along which you can reach Mantua , you can explore the surroundings of the town on two wheels along the picturesque banks of the Mincio River where, according to what is said, Pope Leo I managed to stop the scourge of God, the barbarian Attila, king of the Huns without using any weapons. The cycle path runs along the protected park of the river, in whose clear waters it is possible to sail even by boat or, for adventure lovers, canoeing. Among the cycling routes, particularly characteristic is what goes from Serraglio to the location of the Sanctuary of Madonna del Frassino.

Not far from the city, in the southern part of Lake Garda in San Benedetto di Lugana, nestled in the hills, there is the small Lake of Frassino, of glacial origin, not more than fifteen meters deep and about thirty hectares wide. Its banks are surrounded by reeds, poplars, willows and black alder. The lake, despite its small size, is a winter destination for different aquatic species of birds. Between December and February, numerous ducks stop there, while swans, water chickens, dives, river nightingales, cannaiole and more are nested there. At the beginning of spring and autumn, with a bit of patience and luck, it is possible to admire some specimens of the rare species of osprey hunting fish in the waters of the lake.

Also interesting and relaxing are the itineraries that can be traveled on foot starting from the area of the Mazzini lakeside promenade. Going west, keeping always on the coast, you can reach the marinas Fornaci and Bergamini through a path of about three km along which there are different exercise equipment, dedicated to outdoor sports lovers. It is also possible to swim in the clear waters of Lake Garda or sunbathe on the beach, as well as practice various water sports.

Even the walk that starting from the sports field reaches the Salionze dam is mostly on foot. During the route we line the Feltrin Bastion and the Royal Pit, thus being able to admire the grandeur of the Fortress. Continuing you walk along the bank of the river until you finally reach the dam.

For those who love seaside tourism Peschiera offers beautiful beaches, which have nothing to envy to those located on the shores of the sea.

One is that of the Capuchins, it is a beach mainly in gravel, but with the presence of areas covered with grass where it is possible to lie in the sun, and of small piers to dive from. The beach is free, even if there are parts equipped with sun loungers and there is an area dedicated to children with games and rides.

For those who prefer sand, the ideal beach is that of the lakeside area in Mazzini, characterized by small and suggestive coves from where to dive into the clear waters of the lake. In Pioppi, a beach accessible to the disabled has recently been equipped, while in the Fornaci area there is one with free entry for animals domestic.

Peschiera offers its many tourists opportunities for recreation thanks to a series of events, the most characteristic of which is < Strong>Palio of the Walls. On this occasion, the canals along the fortified walls that surround the city are used as a sort of circuit where twenty local boats, the Garda gondolini, challenge each other in the typical Venetian rowing that is, by paddling standing. The Palio resumes an ancient tradition, in fact, in the past, fishermen used to compete in these competitions using boats of this type. At the Palio you can witness from the suggestive ramparts from where it is impossible not to let yourself be taken by the enthusiasm that animates the fans of the different crews engaged in the race. In the days of the Palio, generally organized on the last weekend of August, various moments of entertainment are organized. Everything ends with the spectacular fire of the Voltoni, a splendid fireworks show.

Among other events we remember:

the “Patronal Festival of San Martino”, during which another palio takes place and where & egrave; it is possible to taste typical products in the food stands.

The “Wings on Peschiera”, a spectacular flight of planes.

The “Regatta delle Bisse”, which takes place between the months of July and August, whose winner is awarded the flag of the lake.

The “Luganeggiando” bike event, a journey through the places of production of Lugano wine with the tasting of the same.

And finally, “La Dolce Notte”, a night dedicated to various musical events held during the month of June at the opening of the summer season in the Porta Verona area.

Finally, do not forget the numerous amusement parks that are located in the areas close to the lake town and that offer everyone an unforgettable opportunity for recreation.