From the dense alpine forests of Valle Camonica to the lakeshores of Idro, Iseo, and Garda, and through the rolling hills covered with the renowned vineyards of Franciacorta and Valtènesi, the province of Brescia encompasses an extraordinary variety of landscapes, places, and travel experiences. It's a welcoming treasure chest of nature, art, history, gastronomy, and emotions — a place that never fails to amaze, where everyone can shape their own perfect getaway.
And this summer, Brescia is ready to welcome visitors for rejuvenating holidays in the spirit of nature, sustainability, active living, wellness, and great taste. A land made for authentic Italian-style vacations, which can also be explored step by step in a beautifully varied tour, linking one charming destination to the next.
Three Lakes, Three Different Ways to Experience a Holiday
With their unique personalities, the three lakes — Garda, Iseo, and Idro — represent three distinct ways of experiencing a vacation. Each one is stunning and unique, close yet diverse in their character, colors, landscapes, and activities.
Equipped beaches, boat excursions, and sites that combine natural beauty with historical charm are just some of the many reasons these lakes are perfect for those seeking something beyond the ordinary. Here, you can enjoy all kinds of water sports, but also hiking and cycling immersed in nature.
Their shores, blessed with a mild Mediterranean climate, are dotted with charming villages, castles, monasteries, and beautiful historic towns such as Sirmione, Desenzano, Salò, Gardone Riviera, and Limone. The lush Mediterranean vegetation — with olive trees, lemon groves, and palms — contrasts beautifully with the wild mountain landscapes and pristine inland nature, much of it protected by parks and nature reserves. It's the ideal setting for green, active holidays in one of Italy's most enchanting destinations.
Among the many options for movement and exploration, the Garda Lake cycle-pedestrian path — considered the most spectacular walkway in Europe — offers a breathtaking 2 km route suspended over the water, safely connecting Limone to the border with Riva del Garda. It's a slow-paced path with incredible views, suitable even for families with children, and can also be enjoyed at night, thanks to efficient LED lighting that enhances its sustainable, romantic atmosphere.
Lago d'Idro: Outdoor Freedom and Adventure
At 368 meters above sea level, nestled between the mountains of Valle Sabbia and the Lombard Prealps, Lake Idro is the perfect retreat for those who prefer nature over nightlife. It's an ideal destination for open-air holidays in campsites or glamping villages, for green walks, extreme sports, and outdoor adventures.
Caressed by steady winds perfect for sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing, the lake is surrounded by mountains that serve as a natural gym for lovers of mountain biking, rock climbing, paragliding, canyoning, and all kinds of dynamic and adrenaline-filled activities.
Lago d'Iseo: Art, Nature and Authentic Charm
Lake Iseo became internationally known as Christo's lake after the world-famous artist created The Floating Piers in summer 2016 — a floating installation that allowed visitors to walk on water all the way to Monte Isola, the highest lake island in Europe. A world of its own, Monte Isola can only be explored on foot or by bicycle.
Exceptionally rich in fish — a sign of its pure, deep waters — the lake is ideal not only for sailing and windsurfing, paragliding, and hang gliding, but also for those seeking relaxation and untouched nature. Numerous panoramic trails for hiking and biking crisscross the landscape.
Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy unforgettable rides along the lakeside stretch of the Oglio Greenway, awarded Italy's Most Beautiful Cycle Route at the Italian Green Road Awards 2019. With a total elevation gain of 1,862 meters and a full route of 282 km — 150 of which run through the province of Brescia — this cyclist's paradise winds through the UNESCO World Heritage rock carvings of Valle Camonica, skirts Lake Iseo, cuts through the vineyards of Franciacorta, and crosses the Brescian plains before blending into the riverbanks of the Po.
Lago di Garda: Glamour, History and Timeless Beauty
Lake Garda, Italy's largest lake — with its scenic shores, Liberty-style villas, and timeless charm — has captivated literary giants like Goethe, Mann, Kafka, and D.H. Lawrence. It offers a warm, glamorous atmosphere and a long tradition of hospitality that continues to delight both Italian and international travelers.
Mountains of Sport
Heading north, Valle Camonica, Valle Trompia, and Valle Sabbia offer some of the best mountain experiences Italy has to offer this summer for outdoor enthusiasts. From trekking to mountain biking and cycle touring along some of the country's most scenic routes, fans of movement "one step from the sky" will find a truly exceptional offering.
Unspoiled nature, charming villages, all types of accommodations (from elegant hotels to campsites), warm hospitality, traditional dishes, and around forty mountain huts await visitors — all framed by breathtaking views, natural parks, and significant traces of history.
With 500 km of mountain bike trails, spectacular natural parks perfect for recharging in the heart of nature (such as the Stelvio National Park and the Adamello Regional Park), and a dense network of hiking paths stretching from the valley floor to the high alpine peaks, Valle Camonica is a true paradise for lovers of outdoor activities.
Most of the action is concentrated in the upper valley, around Temù, the Pontedilegno-Tonale ski area, and the Borno region — the beating heart of the "Altopiano del Sole" (Sun Plateau).
En Plein Air, Between Art and History
The Brescia area also stands out for its extraordinary historical, artistic, and architectural heritage, featuring landmarks that span from Prehistoric times to industrial archaeology and contemporary art. Archaeological sites, historic villages, castles, fortresses, parish churches, abbeys, churches, museums, and art galleries form a rich tapestry of open-air itineraries through art and history, set against ever-changing backdrops and landscapes of great charm.
European Region of Gastronomy
In 2017, Brescia was awarded the title of European Region of Gastronomy. With such a diverse landscape, it's no surprise that the food and wine offering is equally varied — adding a flavorful dimension to any holiday experience.
Visit Brescia - formaggio Bagòss
From PDO products like the extra virgin olive oils of Lake Garda and Lake Iseo, to prized local specialties such as Rosa Camuna and Formagella di Tremosine (both exquisite cheeses), and Slow Food Presidia like Bagòss cheese, the province is a true treasure trove of taste.
The region also boasts outstanding wines, including the world-renowned Franciacorta and no fewer than nine DOC appellations: Botticino, Capriano del Colle, Cellatica, Terre di Franciacorta, Garda, Garda Classico, Garda Bresciano, Lugana, and San Martino della Battaglia.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to rustic trattorias and traditional osterias, Brescia offers a rich and varied culinary scene — a perfect blend of mountain flavors, lakeside cuisine, and countryside dishes. It's a gastronomic journey just waiting to be discovered and savored.
