Few holidaymakers are aware of the prospect of holidaying on beaches half a mile above sea level – but Italy has kept the secret. True, Lakes Garda and Como are famous for summer holidays, but these first-class destinations are now victims of their own success.
Like L’Ora del Garda – where warm afternoon breezes blow from Lake Garda into the mountains – head north. in 2023, the Trentino region will be waving 12 blue flags for its beaches and boast nearly 300 sparkling lakes. including the cleanest in the country. Plus, take in the sacred beauty of the Brenta Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Italian villages. In the autonomous capital of Trento, step inside the frescoed walls of Buonconciglio Castle and in and out of the aperitivo bar.
Like a low-speed hairdryer, Lake Aurora creates the Mediterranean climate enjoyed by the locals of the Trentino Valley, and is the secret that this Dolomite mountain range is the answer to a relaxing holiday in the heat and crowded beaches. Here’s how to explore the Italian lakes you’ve never heard of.
Lake Morveno is located in the Fassa Valley, about an hour’s drive from Riva del Garda and about the same distance from Trento. Due to its high altitude of around 800 metres, Lake Morveno is cooler than some of the other lakes in the region, with a high of 23 degrees Celsius in August, but not only has it been voted the most beautiful lake in Italy for seven years running.
It feels like a beach holiday when tiptoeing across the gravel beach on the shores of Lago di Morveno, with the waves lapping silently at your feet, excited children splashing in the water, and the tropical scent of sunscreen permeating the hot air. Behind are tennis courts, a bike park where kids can learn to ride their bikes, a mini-golf course and a public outdoor pool. In restaurants such as Al Caminetto, where waiters are calm during the lunch rush, the kitchen serves up Italian favourites and local dishes that showcase Austrian influences.
Attracted by the luxury of an electric boat, the crystal clear water was irresistible. After drifting to a secluded beach, switch off the engine and jump into the water. The difference in elevation can be clearly felt; the water is bone-chillingly cold.
Lake Cavedine is one of the coolest contenders for one of Trentino’s seven sparkling waters. While the beaches here have yet to receive the prestigious Blue Flag certification, they are still cleaner and clearer than some of the much-loved coastal beaches.
Equally appealing is the constant breeze, making Cavedine a prime location for windsurfing and other water sports. You can choose to lounge on the pebble beach, get out on the water or hire a bike in Riva del Garda and cycle the rugged surrounding area. Along the way, stop at the Maso Bòtes oil mill in Arco, one of the northernmost olive groves in Europe, which travellers can visit and taste.
The Cavedine region is characterised by orchards and vineyards, including Praves – the perfect spot for a glass of cava and homemade aperitif.
