Ever fancied taking a trip around some of Europe’s most picturesque waterways? Lake Garda is certainly one of the most gorgeous tourist spots that Italy has to offer!
From its crystal clear waters and beautiful shorelines to the stunning surrounding mountains and the sunny weather, it looks like a paradise on Earth! But did you know that Lake Garda also has a very rich and fascinating history?
Here are some fun facts about Lake Garda that might just raise an eyebrow or two.
1. Where exactly is Lake Garda?
Lake Garda is situated in northern Italy. It’s a freshwater lake known for its incredibly clear water and beautiful surrounding panoramas!
2. Lake Garda is probably older than you think.
Believe it or not, Lake Garda has not always been a part of the Italian landscape. In fact, the lake is about 1.5 million years old and was created during the last Ice Age.
3. How was Lake Garda created?
Lake Garda actually arose from a glacier up in the mountains. It is believed that the glacier fell to the bottom of the surrounding peaks, and as it melted, it created a depression in the ground, thus creating the incredible freshwater lake that we now know as the Garda!
4. It’s pretty fertile ground.
Lake Garda is also known for being very fertile! As the glacier created the depression in the ground, it uncovered magnesium-rich soil – fantastic for all the flora in the area.
5. It’s seen plenty of action!
Despite how serene it looks, Lake Garda was actually the site of multiple battles throughout history! There was the Battle of Lake Benacus in 269 AD, the Battle of Castiglione in 1796, the Battle of Lonato in 1796, and the Battle of San Martino, which took place in 1859.
6. How big is Lake Garda?
Lake Garda covers an area of about 370 km2. The Lake is about 350 metres deep and is the biggest lake in all of Italy!
7. Get climbing!
Of course, one of the things that make Lake Garda so beautiful is the mountains surrounding it! These are the Garda Mountains. Mont Cadria is the tallest mountain in the range. At its peak, it reaches 2,254 metres high!
8. Location, location, location…
To give you a rough idea of where Lake Garda is, it is about halfway between Milan and Venice! Its southern shore is situated between Verona and Brescia. And in total, Lake Garda is a part of three Italian provinces, including Trentino-Alto Adige, Lombardy, and Veneto.
9. It was once part of… Austria?
Believe it or not, Lake Garda did not always belong to the Italians! In fact, the northern part of the lake was Austrian property. It was returned to the Italians at the end of World War I.
10. Time to go island-hopping!
Although the lake may not be the biggest in the world, or even in Europe, it is still large enough to house five main islands! These include Isola del Garda, Isola San Biagio, Isola di Sogno, Isola di Trimelone, and Isola dell’Olivo.
FAQs about Lake Garda
What is Lake Garda famous for?
Thanks to its rich history, Lake Garda is known for its stunning surrounding villages that are rife with historical artifacts and monuments, castles, and more, offering a great view of what’s occurred here over centuries of civilization. And, of course, it’s also known for its stunning natural beauty, too - so be sure to take a few snaps.
When is the best time of year to visit Lake Garda?
The best time of the year to visit Lake Garda is between June and September. The water is perfectly warm, the sun is out, and it’s a wonderful time to soak up the area in all of its wonders! Of course, the lake remains just as picturesque during the colder months, too.
Can you swim in Lake Garda?
Yes, you can swim in Lake Garda! In fact, the lake has multiple beautiful beaches that are commonly used for sunbathing, watersports, and paddling of all kinds. Why not take a dip if you’re touring the region?
Further reading
https://facts.uk/tag/lake-garda/
https://www.gardaitaly.com/
https://www.visitgarda.com/en/garda_lake/
Do you know any fun facts about Lake Garda? Share them in the comments below!
