Sirmione, Peschiera & south

Dreaming of the perfect retreat to Italy? Our luxury villas in Sirmione, Peschiera & surrounding areas offer scenic views of South Lake Garda.

We offer a range of breathtaking villas & apartments for rent in South Lake Garda to fulfill your holiday experience including the options of: villas with private pools, villas for couples, villas for groups, family-friendly villas & beachfront villas. Find your ideal villa below.

Sirmione and Desenzano

The southern shore of Lake Garda is the widest and most open part of the lake, with gentle hills, vineyards and long views north towards the mountains. It is also the easiest part of the lake to reach, which makes it a good choice for shorter stays as well as longer family holidays.

Sirmione stands on a narrow peninsula reaching far into the lake. You enter its old town across the moat of the Scaliger castle, and at the far tip of the peninsula are the remains of a large Roman villa known as the Grotto of Catullus. Warm spring water rising offshore feeds the town's thermal spas, and smooth limestone slabs along the shore make natural spots for sunbathing and swimming.

Desenzano del Garda, the largest town on the lake, has a busy harbour, a good choice of shops and restaurants and the mosaics of a Roman villa.

Peschiera and the countryside

Peschiera del Garda, where the River Mincio leaves the lake, is encircled by star-shaped Venetian fortifications that are listed by UNESCO, and its old centre sits on an island within the walls. Close by are the lake's big theme parks, including Gardaland, which are a strong draw for families.

A short drive south, Valeggio sul Mincio is known for its handmade tortellini and the Parco Giardino Sigurtà, a large garden park, while the hamlet of Borghetto sits beside the river beneath a medieval fortified bridge. The towers at Solferino and San Martino recall the battles of Italian unification.

Wine, seasons and getting here

The vineyards between Sirmione and Peschiera produce Lugana, a fresh white wine, and the eastern shore around Bardolino is known for its light reds and Chiaretto rosé. Lake fish such as whitefish and trout appear on most menus.

Verona airport is around half an hour away, with Bergamo, Milan and Venice also within reach, and Desenzano and Peschiera both have railway stations on the Milan to Venice line. Verona and Mantua make easy day trips. Spring and September are pleasant and quieter, while July and August are hot and lively.

South Lake Garda suits families, couples and anyone who wants plenty to do without long drives. Read more about Lake Garda, or browse the villas listed below to find your base in the south.