Lake Grada in Italian is called Lagio di Grada. It is the largest, longest and cleanest lake in Italy. This fabulously beautiful lake is located halfway between Milan and Venice. It is surrounded by the peaks of Prealpa Gradesan, which adds even more magic to the place. The lake owes its name to the city of Grada. The lake used to be called Lago Benaco. It is located in three Italian provinces: Trento, Verona and Brescia. It is interesting that there was a time when its northern part belonged to Austria-Hungary.

Best things to do in Lagio di Grada

1. Lake Grada

Of course, the lake will be the biggest attraction awaiting us in this region. Its clear and transparent water can enchant you because it is a one of a kind place. The length of the lake is about 55 kilometers, and the width is 4 kilometers in the northern part and 12 kilometers in the south. The average depth of the lake is 136 meters, and the greatest depth is 346 meters. There are 5 large islands and a lot of small islands on the lake. This is a glacial lake that is home to all kinds of fish. Some of them only appear in this location.

2. Scaliger Castle

Located in the city of Riva del Garda, the 12th-century castle is a real treat for lovers of history and fine Italian architecture. It was built in 1124 in agreement with the bishop. At the beginning of the 16th century, it was transformed from a defensive fortress into a Renaissance episcopal residence. However, the building lost much of the character of previous eras, building barracks for the Austro-Hungarian troops in the 19th century. Today, this beautiful historical site houses the city museum.

3. Morocco di Dro

A real place of worship for people who are passionate about archeology, paleontology and dinosaurs. This is a landslide of post-glacial rock, consisting mainly of sedimentary rocks of animal origin. Morocco di Dro is the largest site of its kind in all the Alps. Dinosaur footprints dating back 190 million years were found in the landslide zone. One of the herbivorous giants is about 7-8 meters, and the other of the predator. For dinosaur lovers.

4. Castello di Arco

The castle is located in such a beautiful and picturesque place that it looks literally behind the scenes. Built on a rock, the medieval castle seems to look out over the entire area with stoic calm. As you can easily guess, this was the place from which the local rulers ruled. Such a residence was certainly impressive because it continues to dazzle. Unfortunately, only ruins have survived to this day, so they are still worth seeing and taking a lot of photos.

5. Arco Coffee Museum

A unique museum that attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists. What for? Because it’s completely free and shows us the history of one of the most popular drinks – coffee. The owners of the museum are the Omkafe company, which produces… yes, you guessed it, coffee production. The wonderfully thought out and planned site has a museum with exhibits that show how the history of this unique black brew has passed through the ages. There is also a shop with a huge variety of different types of coffee. The smell itself makes you immediately want a cup of delicious and aromatic coffee.

6. Beaches in Torbol

Regardless of whether we visit the surroundings of Lake Grada in the summer season or beyond, there will be a great place for relaxation, swimming and sunbathing, there will be many beaches near the lake. Where are the best? Of course, it all depends on your preferences, but in general, the picturesque beaches in the city of Torbole have the best opinion. All beaches are rock or pebbly so it would be wise to bring flip flops or flip flops.

7. City of Torbole

In addition to the beach, the city can be interesting for its infrastructure and beautiful landscapes. Perhaps Torbole’s most iconic landmark is Casa Beust, a red house by the harbor where local artists met. Interestingly, there was a school of painting founded by Johannes Litzman. Now there is a charming cafe in this place that offers us a table by the lake. The coffee drunk in such a place will surely taste special..

8. Boat cruise on Lake Grada

Being in such a place, you can go sailing. Cruise on the lake is one of the attractions that will certainly be remembered for a long time. The views and landscapes during such a cruise are literally breathtaking. The photos are just perfect. There is no better Photoshop than mother nature. There are many possibilities for cruising. For example, a cruise from Sirmione to Riva del Grada usually takes about 4 hours. There is really a lot of time here to rest, relax and admire the beauty of the glacial lake.

9. Piazza III Novembre

The beautiful historic main square of the city of Riba del Grada, which is actually the heart of this city. There are charming, old houses with cozy pubs, restaurants and hotels. In the evenings, the noisy square fascinates with its movement and nightlife. Great place to explore the local culture.

10. Bastion – the ruins of an old watchtower

The watchtower was built on the steep hill of Monte Rocchetta, on the Riva del Grada. He had to ensure the safety of the inhabitants and did so for many years. Unfortunately, only ruins have survived to this day, which are worth climbing and viewing from this highest point of view. The climb takes about half an hour, its coverage is about 200 meters, but the view of the city in all its glory is worth every climb.