Salo

This historic centre with a lively and bustling heart, the gateway to the "lomon coast" has the prettiest of lakefronts to take a stroll along

The small resort town of Salo is situated on the south west side of Lake Garda. Home to the longest promenade on Lake Garda, and possibly the whole of Italy, this is the perfect place to relax, stroll, and watch the world go by. Behind the promenade you will find the picturesque old town, full of charming streets, colourful tall houses and medieval piazzas. All set against a dramatic mountainous backdrop, this is a beautiful town to explore and while away an afternoon or two.

What to do

Entertainment in Salo means soaking up the atmosphere and taking in its majestic setting. And the perfect place to do this is its famous promenade. Rebuilt on stilts after an earthquake in 2004, it is lined with bars and restaurants. The perfect spot for a passeggiata or to watch the world go whilst enjoying an aperitivo.

For the more energetic there are plenty of opportunities for water sports on the lake. There is rowing and sailing as well as fishing and it's even possible to surf on medium sized waves when the mountain winds blow.

Further in town you will find the Cathedral, Duomo Santa Maria Annunziata, built in Gothic style in the 15th century. Behind the austere exterior you will find a beautiful interior with an exquisitely painted ceiling, tall nave and elaborate carvings.

Also worth a stroll around is the Palazzo della Magnifica Patria (Palace of the Magnificent Motherland), which dates from 1524. The palace is home to a museum displaying artefacts and documents of the Renaissance period, as well as exhibits on the colonial war, Spanish civil war and World War Two.

Where to eat

Although most of the dining in Salo is centred around the waterfront, it's worth heading a few streets back to Al Cantinone. This friendly neighbourhood trattoria is a favourite amongst locals and offers fabulous local cooking.

Also in town and hidden away from the busy tourist spots you will discover the excellent Civico 7. Here you will find impeccable service, a varied menu offering interesting twists on traditional dishes as well as a knowledgeable and extensive wine list.

For modern Italian head to Antica Trattoria alle Rose. This long established elegant trattoria serves up a fantastic selection of home made pasta dishes, local cuisine and fantastic desserts.

Back on the lakeside you will find Ristorante Papillon. This pizzeria offers perfect thin crust pizzas straight from their wood-fired oven. All served in an idyllic location on the waters edge beside a weeping willow tree.

How to get there

Salo's location, on the opposite side of the lake to the main transport links, means arriving in this town often involves a slightly longer, although very scenic, journey. If arriving by car, the exit to the Autostrada is located approx. 15 miles away. It is worth bearing in mind that in the busy summer months journeys around the lake can take longer.

There is a frequent ferry service connecting Salo with the surrounding lakeside resorts. This can make for a pleasant way to travel and avoids the busy connecting roads.

The nearest train stations are located at Desenzano and Peschiera del Garda. You can take the bus or ferry from Salo to reach the stations where you will find direct services into Venice. The nearest airports are located at Verona (51km) Il Caravaggio (87km) Parma (146km) Milano (169km) and Venice (177km).