So much to see, so many things to do in Lake Garda

The largest of Italy's lakes, Lago di Garda is some 50km long, 20km wide and 350m deep - but its beauty is beyond measure.

An idyllic location for the family camping holiday, there are so many things to do in Lake Garda, with its scintillating, surf-ripping hydrofoil rides and gently rippling shingle shorelines. The are shopping opportunities aplenty, with most of the lake's impressive, little harbour towns offering a treasure trove of luxury gift ideas, from leather goods to fine wines, pretty paintings to ultra-fashion, Italian-style.

Our family holiday parks in Lake Garda are all located around the south, with Milan 100km from the west side, and Verona just 39km to the east. Being so close and well worth a visit, Verona is not only home to Shakespeare's famous Romeo and Juliet balcony, but also features a wealth of majestic palaces and splendid Roman architecture, including the world-renowned amphitheatre, classic venue for star-studded summer operas. The children will be equally enthralled by the shrieking delights of Gardaland, one of Europe's mightiest theme parks and Number One draw for Italian families.

Wherever you are on the Lake, the vistas are truly inspiring. But to enjoy Garda in its wonderful entirety, a cable car from Malcesine to the top of Monte Baldo is a must, the perfect place to point out your next destination by lake-hopping boat. Will it be the sensational castle peninsula of Sirmione to your left, or the lemon tree-decked Limone directly opposite? Maybe the windsurfers paradise of Torbole, or Mussolini's Salo?

Whichever of the many things to do in Lake Garda you choose, whether it's visiting a tranquil medieval village or shopping in a thrusting town centre, you're never far from a tasty treat. There's flavoursome fish in abundance, as you might expect, rich and colourful ice-cream, wholesome meats (beloved by local Austrian visitors), ever-present portions of pizza and wines of sweet, exquisite vintage.