Explore Isola Del Garda, The Gem Of Lake Garda

The Island of Garda – also known as the Isola del Garda, Isola di Garda or Isola Borghese – is the largest island on Lake Garda. It has been inhabited for thousands of years, going back to Roman times. After being used by pirates for years, it came under the control of the monks of St Zeno of Verona. It then shifted hands many times over the years. The current villa, the Villa Borghese-Cavazza, which occupies the island was built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and is occupied by the Cavazza Counts who inherited the island in 1927 and still live there today.

The property, along with its gardens and park, has been open to visitors since 2002 and the whole island is an unparalleled beauty. If you want to visit this little island paradise, just find a villa with pool in the Lake Garda area and spend a day wandering around the villa and gardens.

The Villa Borghese-Cavazza was built between 1894 and 1901 by Duke Raffaele De Ferrari di Genova, on pre-existing remains from the dwellings of previous occupants of the island.

The design of the building was inspired by the residences of the Venetian Lagoon and is the only example of a Gothic Revival style villa in the area. The villa is extraordinary grand and elegantly makes use of the architectural forms from the Venetian buildings which inspired it. It was designed by the architect Luigi Rovelli, who created a harmonious building, rich in architectonic details. The façades are decorated by acutely arched windows and a tower crowned with crenellation and flowery Gothic motifs stands at one corner of the building.

The formal gardens beside the villa are equally magical and are now part of the Great Italian Gardens Club, recognised for their great beauty. They include bridges, canals and artificial caves and ancient settlements. The central terrace at the front of the Villa is a classical Italian style garden with modelled hedges representing figures, including the emblem of the De Ferrari family who were one of the owners that were key figures in creating the magnificent garden. The plants are diverse – both local and exotic – with palms from the Canary Islands, persimmon, lemon, pear, pomegranate, olive, orange, grapefruit and prickly pear trees, various roses, rare flowers and more.

Tours leave by boat from Barbarano di Salò or Gardone Riviera and are offered in three languages (Italian, English and German). The 2 hour tour illustrates the history of the island, from the 19th to the 20th century, and its many legends and includes strolling the gardens in front of the villa, visiting two rooms in the home and then taking refreshments offered by the owner. These include delicious local products such as wine and olive oil. The owner of the island, assisted by several guides, personally conducts the tour, and it is still a relatively little-known sight so you'll avoid the large tourist crowds. For a unique and special trip when you visit Lake Garda, this is an absolute must-see!