Exploring Lake Garda, Italy: A Campervan Adventure to Castles and Roman Villas

Campervan Adventures in Northern Italy: Discovering Lake Garda

Our Italian adventure continues! After six days of exploring Italy in our rented campervan, we arrived at the breathtaking Lake Garda, nestled in the foothills of the Dolomites. This stunning location promised a blend of history, natural beauty, and relaxation, and it certainly delivered.

A Lakeside Oasis: Our Campground on Lake Garda

We were delighted to find an available spot at a lakeside campground. While Italian RV parks are generally minimal with only electrical hookups, the location made up for it. At around $30 a night, it was a budget-friendly option with stunning views. The park even boasted a pool and direct access to the lake, perfect for a refreshing dip.

One thing that surprised us was the abundance of RV parks in Italy. We had initially chosen a smaller campervan, fearing narrow roads, but a larger vehicle would have easily navigated the well-maintained roads and numerous campgrounds. We even saw a few larger RVs, though still smaller than typical American models, usually around 30 feet.

Exploring Castello Scaligero: A Medieval Fortress

After settling in, we grabbed our campervan's folding bikes and headed to the nearby town. A scenic 10-minute ride along the lake brought us to Castello Scaligero, a medieval castle connected to the mainland by two small bridges. Its strategic location, surrounded by water, made it a formidable fortress in its time.

For a small fee, we toured the castle, marveling at its architecture and imagining life within its walls. The moat, drawbridges, and high walls spoke to its defensive history. We even climbed to the keep, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding area.

The castle's history intrigued us. Originally built in the 1200s, it was ruled by Verona before eventually falling under Venetian control. Its strategic importance was clear, and we discussed how difficult it would have been to conquer.

Stepping Back in Time: The Roman Villa

After a delicious lunch by the water and a refreshing gelato break, we continued our exploration. At the far end of the island, we discovered the remains of a vast Roman villa, dating back to 100 BC. This impressive structure, once the summer home of a Roman nobleman, covered a significant area and showcased intricate details, even in its ruined state.

While much of the original villa had been pillaged over the centuries, the remaining foundations and some reconstructed areas gave us a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of its former inhabitants. We imagined the frescoes, marble floors, and stunning views enjoyed by the villa's owner.

Dinner with a View and a Surprise

As the day drew to a close, we enjoyed a lakeside dinner. While the atmosphere and view were fantastic, we suspected we were overcharged. Despite this, the overall experience was enjoyable.

A Day Well Spent on Lake Garda

Our day exploring Lake Garda was filled with history, stunning scenery, and delicious food. From the medieval castle to the Roman villa, we were immersed in the rich culture of this beautiful region. Lake Garda is a must-see destination for anyone traveling through Northern Italy.