From the neo-Gothic palace of Isola del Garda to the underwater wreck off Isola del Sogno, Lake Garda hides five little-known islands that are worth the journey in their own right. These small slices of paradise reveal a different side of Italy’s largest lake.
Few travellers realise that Lake Garda is home to far more than picturesque villages and sun-drenched beaches. Italy’s largest lake also conceals five islands, each with its own unique character. Historic villas, islets that can be reached on foot when the water level drops, and shipwrecks beloved by divers… these tiny island territories are well worth a visit.
Isola del Garda: the most spectacular
If you only visit one island on Lake Garda, this would probably be the one. The largest of the lake’s five islands, Isola del Garda is home to a magnificent Venetian neo-Gothic villa surrounded by cypress trees, ancient olive groves and palm trees.
Its history stretches back more than 2,000 years. Frequented by the Romans, used as a pirate refuge during the Middle Ages, and later the site of a hermitage founded by Saint Francis of Assisi in 1221, it was long known as the “Island of the Monks”. Its current architecture dates from the late nineteenth century, when Duke Gaetano De Ferrari commissioned the construction of a spectacular residence inspired by the palaces of Venice.
Since 1927, the estate has belonged to the Borghese Cavazza family, who still live there and open it to visitors each year. Accessible only by boat, the island can be explored through guided tours that take in richly decorated reception rooms, a panoramic terrace overlooking the lake, and beautifully landscaped gardens.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1-0seMEBTA
Isola di San Biagio: better known as 'Rabbit Island'
A few hundred metres from the lake’s western shore lies Isola di San Biagio, more commonly known as 'Rabbit Island'. The island owes its nickname to the many rabbits that once lived there and served as game for local noble families.
Since 2007, it has belonged to the San Biagio campsite and forms part of the Rocca di Manerba Nature Reserve.
Although small, the island boasts genuine historical and natural significance. Several Roman remains have been discovered there, including tombstones now displayed in the Archaeological Museum of Manerba del Garda. Surrounded by shallow waters and stunning scenery, it is an ideal spot for observing the lake’s biodiversity and enjoying some peace and quiet away from the busiest tourist areas.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KeP4Ex9W9k
Isola di Trimelone: the forbidden island
From a distance, Isola di Trimelone appears to be just another small islet on Lake Garda. Yet its history is among the most fascinating in the region.
Located between Cassone and Assenza, it has occupied a strategic position since the Middle Ages. Fortified as early as the tenth century to protect local inhabitants from Hungarian invasions, it was later used repeatedly for military purposes. During the Second World War, Benito Mussolini even visited the island in March 1945 to give what would become his final interview.
After the war, the island was converted into a storage site for explosives awaiting disposal. However, a massive explosion in 1954 led to the site being closed for many years. Despite an extensive decontamination project that recovered nearly 26,000 pieces of ammunition, Trimelone remains closed to the public today.
Nature is gradually reclaiming the island, turning it into a haven for birds and native vegetation.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9iogqsnHItU
Isola del Sogno: a diver’s paradise
Situated in the beautiful Bay of Val di Sogno, Isola del Sogno is one of the smallest islands on Lake Garda. Measuring just 155 metres in length, it takes its name from the 'Valley of Dreams' that surrounds it.
Although it is a private property and not open to the public, many visitors come here to dive.
The island’s true attraction lies beneath the surface. At a depth of around 40 metres rests the Delsey, a 16-metre-long wreck deliberately sunk in 1987. Covered in aquatic vegetation and frequented by numerous fish species, it is one of the most popular diving sites on Lake Garda.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-kRZHRkVyc
Isola degli Olivi: a landmark for sailors
Located off the coast of Malcesine, Isola degli Olivi resembles a small rocky outcrop covered with the olive trees from which it takes its name. At only 98 metres long, it is nevertheless well known among sailing enthusiasts.
Its position in the middle of the lake makes it an important reference point during many regattas, including the famous Centomiglia, one of Europe’s most prestigious sailing races.
The island is also popular with divers thanks to its rich underwater environment. Many visit to explore the submerged cave that descends to a depth of 30 metres. Nearby lies a small wreck that has become a refuge for the lake’s fish.
It is the sort of place that makes you want to pull on a wetsuit and dive straight into these crystal-clear waters.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S7RdV10S3_o
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