LOCAL AREA
The surrounding area has so much to offer if you wish to venture out….
Close to the villa there is licensed fishing, dedicated off road cycle paths, pony trekking, wine trails, water parks, weekly markets and a plethora of water based activities on the lake.
Bike Rides
There are a variety of bicycles in the garage for your use. The off road cycle path follows the river Mincio and you can go North to Peschiera or South all the way to Mantova. It is mostly flat and very beautiful.
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Start on the rough path by the canal next to the house. The tarmac path is on the other side of the river.
Ferries on the Lake and boating
You can hire boats on the lake for the day from Peschiera and there are regular ferries that take you to different villages around the lake.
A tour around the lake is a jaw-dropping experience. The famous lakeside towns of Valpolicella, Bardolino, Sirmione, Riva del Garda are all worth a visit!
Sirmione
This is well worth a visit. The peninsula sticks out into lake Garda with beautiful cobbled streets, a 12th century castle and luxury shops.
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Sirmione is 1 hour by boat or 25 minutes by car.
If the weather gets too hot – Monte Baldo is a good place to go for some cool air and stunning views! It is the largest mountain close to Lake Garda and can be accessed by car or cable car from Malcesine. There is a ‘Go Ape’ park for kids and many walks with summit top restaurants.
For the thrill seekers there is Gardaland - this is Italy’s equivalent to Disneyland and has everything for families and keen roller coaster junkies alike. Cheaper rate for evening tickets.
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Gardaland is 30 minutes drive by car but you can also get a free shuttle bus from Peschiera train station. This includes Movieland, Seaworld and Nature Safari.
Take the 7.30 train from Peschiera and you will be in Venice in time for breakfast on the main canal!
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The train is cheap and Venice is pricey but well worth it – book tickets for attractions in advance!
The closest village is Monzambano – a lovely characterful village with a ruined castle and magnificent church, 2 traditional squares with shops, cafes, restaurants and the best pizzeria this side of London!
Awarded the world heritage sight status by Unesco – Verona is a big tourist destination due to it’s Roman heritage.
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The Arena amphitheatre hosts operas throughout the summer season. Shakespeare based 3 of his plays here!
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Verona is approx 25 minutes from Villa Sonor by car but you can also get there by train from Peschiera.
Mantova is an interesting medieval town which has lots of colonnades and fascinating architecture. Famous for it gastronomic treats.
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Mantova is approx 45 minutes by car from the villa.
Cremona is of special interest for string players as it is the centre of the Cremonese school of violin making. It’s medieval streets are lined with luthiers on every corner and hosts the world renowned Trienale exhibition every 3 years.
Borghetto
This tiny hamlet is a big draw for tourists due to its idyllic location. Situated on the River Mincio, it boasts a medieval bridge, 11th century church, old mill wheels, artisan ice cream shops, restaurants, cafes and the classification as one of Italy’s most beautiful villages.
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Borghetto is approx 5 minutes drive from the villa by car or 20 minutes off road by bike.
Valeggio
Once the home of Count Maffei in the 1600’s, Valeggio boasts the Parca Sigurta, a wonderful market on Saturday mornings and the 14th Century Scaligeri castle. The small town boasts excellent restaurants and cafes as well a a tourist information centre. Tortellini di Valeggio is famous for its variety and quality – well worth getting some from the delicatessons.!
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Valeggio is approx 10 mins drive from the Villa or a healthy 20 min bike ride with a hill.
Cavour
One of the loveliest water parks we know with excellently maintained grounds and great water slides! It is possible to spend a whole day here and relax.
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Cavour is approx 10 mins by car from the villa.
