The 17 campsites and holiday villages of the association Lago di Garda Camping on Lake Garda are dedicated not only to relaxation, but also see themselves as passionate ambassadors of their region. With genuine insider knowledge and a lot of heart, they make sure their guests experience more than just sun and lake. Those who spend their vacation here should not only feel welcome, but ideally return the following year as friends.
Immersing Yourself in Real Life Around Lake Garda
From the best weekly markets to small, exceptional wineries: the hosts of the 17 locations know where to find the "authentic" Lake Garda feeling. One such place is the region's popular weekly markets, a true feast for the senses. Among colorful stalls, cheerful vendors offer fresh, regional products of outstanding quality. Those who listen carefully may even pick up a tip or two from the locals on the art of bargaining, and quite often a little extra thrown in with a purchase. Equally authentic are the wineries scattered around the lake. Especially on the eastern shore, where the Strada del Vino Bardolino begins in Bardolino, one winery follows the next, around 50 in total. The wine regions of Veneto to the south and the rolling hills of Valtenesi on the western side also invite culinary exploration, perfect for leisurely hikes followed by a wine tasting.
From Olive Oil to Honey: The Treasures of the Campsites
Many campers transform their market finds in the evening on the grill or gas stove into little Italian delicacies. Often, a splash of Lake Garda olive oil and a pinch of sea salt is all it takes. The native extra virgin olive oil "Garda" DOP, also known as "green gold," has more than earned its name. Around 70 varieties are produced in the region, mostly by family-run businesses with a rich tradition. Some campsites, such as La Rocca Camping Village, located between Bardolino and Garda, even produce their own olive oil, along with wine and honey. At Europa Silvella campsite, guests can take part in a weekly olive oil tasting, complete with fascinating insights into production and harvesting. Fornella Camping & Wellness Family Resort also takes pride in homemade quality and offers its own wine and olive oil.
Wine Festival and Tortellini: Culinary Highlights in Autumn
One of the year's highlights is the Festa dell'Uva e del Vino along the waterfront promenade in Bardolino. From October 2 to 6, 2025, locals and visitors celebrate wine together, with music, regional cuisine, and plenty of good cheer. Pasta lovers will be thoroughly rewarded in Valeggio sul Mincio to the southwest. The town is famous for its tortellini, traditionally filled here with a refined blend of meat and cheese. Whether served in chicken broth or with a delicate sauce, the variety is wide and the quality high, as the large share of local diners attests. For the curious, tortellini-making classes are also available, and a short detour to the picturesque Borghetto sul Mincio with its ancient watermills rounds out the experience perfectly.
Lake Garda Camping: More Than a Vacation, a Way of Life
Those who find their place at Lago di Garda Camping discover more than a travel destination. It is an invitation to get to know the land and its people, with open eyes, an open heart, and the finest olive oil packed for the journey.
Here are a few tips from the campsite hosts:
The best spot for a late-afternoon aperitif: Punta San Vigilio at the old harbor Strand Giamaica in Sirmione Recommended trattorias: Osteria Rivelin in Peschiera del Garda Cantina Casetto a Cisano in Bardolino Cantina Conti Thun in Puegnago del Garda Osteria dell'orologio in Salò Best gelaterias Gelateria La Romana, in the old town of Peschiera del Garda Gelateria Cristallo on the lakeshore in Bardolino La Cremeria in the old harbour in Lazise Gelateria Scaligeri in Sirmione Gelateria Riviera in the Gulf of Manerba, at the beach La Romantica Boat rental: Discover Lake Garda from the water, no boating license required!