Holiday Homes & Rentals in Desenzano del Garda

How does a holiday in a quaint lakeside Italian town in the foothills of the Alps sound? Desenzano del Garda on the southern tip of Lake Garda boasts stunning Venetian style houses, a lovely promenade and a busy street life. The historical old town is a treasure of piazzas replete with bars and eateries and a popular night-life scene. Choose from the wide range of homes here if you want to be in the thick of it. If you prefer a lake view, choose from one of the many accommodation options stretching along the shoreline, or for a really special location, there are some cosy properties near the ancient Roman ruins of Villa Romana.

As befits a town of such beauty, properties feature delightful terraces where you can drink your morning coffee while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere from the streets below. Many holiday homes boast swimming pools, and a few have delightful gardens. The majority of holiday homes in Desenzano del Garda are apartment style residences, but there are also some houses on the edge of the town.

On the south-west shore of Lake Garda, Desenzano del Garda is a small town that is easily accessed by car, ferry or train. The harbour is the place to start. Small and cosy and surrounded by colourful and intricate buildings, it acts as a grand entrance to the fully pedestrianised historic town centre. If you are here for the beach, there are three equipped beaches in and around the town, with the main beach, Spiaggia d’Oro, stretching out along the lake eastwards.

On the western edge of the town, discover Villa Romana, a holiday home from 2,000 years ago. Still retaining its colourful and well-preserved mosaics, you can imagine how it felt being a well-to-do Roman at the dawn of civilization. Learn more about that era, including its state-of-the-art drainage system and advanced transport infrastructure.

Desenzano del Garda never sleeps early. For those who come to party deep into the night, life continues in this old town long after the sun has gone down. There are so many bars and discos to choose from. Check out the African Suite which has dancing through the night, Trattoria Al Convento Music Restaurant, if you fancy combing a meal with fabulous music, or the ostentatious Osteria Ago e Rita for special occasions such as birthdays, stag or hen parties.

Those of a more sedate constitution will be delighted by the myriad attractive buildings, churches and monuments that make up Desenzano del Garda. Pretty little churches reveal themselves in the most surprising places, and a walk along the promenade by the harbour takes you past Venetian style houses which are among the most beautiful to be found around Lake Garda. Lovers of sculpture will adore the Monumento agli Aviatori del Reparto Alta Velocita, celebrating the high-speed aviators from the war, located right in the main piazza of the town.

The most beautiful beaches in Desenzano del Garda are Desenzanino, La Spiaggia d’Oro and La Spiaggia della Rivoltella. They all safe and clean and offer great facilities such as kayak rental!

On a hill behind the town you will find the ancient castle of Desenzano. Relatively modern compared to the Roman buildings in the area, the castle is ‘only’ 1,000 years old. Built to protect the local population, it has survived multiple raids and attacks over the years and stands firm awaiting your visit.

Near the centre of town, this lovely church is a refuge from the hustle and bustle outside on the streets. Bigger inside that it looks from the outside, pay attention to the ornate altarpieces and paintings on the walls.

Just half an hour by car, Sirmione is renowned as the most attractive place to visit on Lake Garda. You’ll find a picturesque 13th-century castle, fascinating Roman ruins and the most incredible panoramic views across the lake.

Complete your holiday with a boat trip on the lake to witness the breathtaking beauty of this mountainous area from aboard one of many pleasure cruises. They depart regularly from the harbour.