Italian Lakes: Boats, Gelato, and Bellagio Dreams
We showed up at Lake Garda expecting postcard views—and ended up renting paddle boats with slides like we were kids again. That’s the Italian lakes for you: a mix of glam, chill, and just enough chaos to make it interesting.
We’ve been lucky enough to dip in and out of this region a few times, and it keeps pulling us back. Here’s a glimpse into what we’ve seen—and what’s still waiting for us next time.
🚤 Lake Garda: Slides, Swims, and Spa Days
Lake Garda is pure energy.
We rented one of those ridiculous paddle boats with a slide attached and spent the afternoon launching ourselves into the lake like pros. Between swims, we wandered through colorful towns, grabbed gelato, and somehow ended up at a spa with views that made us forget real life existed.
🍦 Lake Como: Ferries, Fancy Villas, and Finding Bellagio
Lake Como is every bit as dramatic as you hope it’ll be.
We took ferries from one town to the next, hopped off to grab gelato, and floated past George Clooney’s villa like it was totally normal. (It’s not.)
Bellagio lives up to the hype—stone streets, flower boxes everywhere, and the kind of gelato that deserves its own postcard.
🏡 Lake Maggiore & Lake Orta: The Ones That Got Away (For Now)
We haven’t made it to Lake Maggiore or Lake Orta yet, but they’re high on the list.
Maggiore is supposed to be all grand villas and lush gardens; Orta’s the secret little sister, quieter and more low-key. We’re coming for them.
🌅 Why We Keep Coming Back
The Italian lakes aren’t flashy.
They’re just easy to love — ferries that feel like part of everyday life, towns that come alive at night, swims that turn into slow afternoons.
It’s the kind of place you don’t rush through — you just find a spot, stay a while, and let it be what it is.
🎧 Want more?
Our full podcast episode is out now—hear all the wild paddle boat stories, ferry adventures, and tips for making the most of the lakes. Link at the top.
