| Overview | Things to do | Suitability | Country Info (Italy) |
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Desenzano is tucked into the SW corner of Lake Garda, 76 mls E of Milan, 97 mls W of Venice airport, 26 mls W of Verona. It is positioned opposite Sirmione promontory and mountains rising steeply from the E shore. It is encircled by fertile fields, orchards, vineyards and olive groves supporting ancient rural communities. Desenzano is the most important commercial centre and the largest town (population 22,500) on the lake. The interesting remains of a 3rd-century Roman villa with vivid mosaics bear witness to the town's antiquity. The benefits of prosperous Venetian rule from the 15th to the 18th century can be seen clearly today.
Although the shops and cafes are situated in two extensive arcaded 19th-century piazzas, the true centre is the picturesque Venetian-style old port, full of fishing craft. Inland, narrow residential streets have been closed to traffic and it suffers less intrusion by day-trippers than most lake resorts. An attractive tree-lined promenade by the lake stretches from one end of town to the other. Except on the weekly market day this is popular with strollers and the lake's ubiquitous swans and ducks. Here and there fountains and statues of local heroes can be found and the general atmosphere, helped by the wide range of activities available, makes Desenzano seem more like a prosperous market town than a holiday resort. |
