Gardens in the Italian Lakes 🌸
Azaleas, jasmine, and roses — with gourmet flavors to match
Early May is one of the most beautiful moments to be in the Italian Lakes. The season is in that perfect in-between: the warmth of summer is beginning to stir, yet the freshness of spring still lingers in the air. The azaleas are still in bloom, joined by camellias, jasmines, and roses — their colors mirrored in the water, their fragrance drifting along the lakeshore. On quiet garden paths, the scent of jasmine mingles with the soft breeze, and the light dances across the ripples.
It is here, in this golden window of the year, that we’ll travel together through some of our favorite places in Italy.
Milano & Verona
We begin in Milano, a city of contrasts — at once elegant, vibrant, and deeply rooted in its history. From the grand architecture to the café-lined streets, there is a rhythm here that invites both curiosity and pause. From Milano, we travel to Verona, with its softly elegant piazzas, timeless river views, and echoes of centuries past. This is a city to wander slowly, following cobblestoned streets that seem to curve just enough to keep what’s ahead a secret until you arrive.
Lake Iseo & Lake Garda
From Verona, our path takes us to Lake Iseo, a jewel of tranquility where we’ll visit a small vineyard producing some of the finest Franciacorta sparkling wines. It’s a chance to linger among the vines, to savor the landscape as much as the wine itself.
Continuing to Lake Garda, we’ll wander among lemon groves and step into the remarkable Il Vittoriale degli Italiani— the hillside estate of poet and orator Gabriele D’Annunzio. Here, gardens, art, and theatre blend in a curious, almost theatrical mix, all set against sweeping lake views.
Como & A Day by Boat
Our journey then takes us to Como, a beautiful walled city that is one of our absolute favorites in all of Italy. From here, we’ll spend a private day on the lake by boat, visiting the lush gardens of Villa Carlotta and Villa Melzi, and arriving finally at the breathtaking Villa del Balbianello. Considered by many to be the most beautiful villa on Lake Como, it is accessible only from the water — the approach by boat is unforgettable, a moment that seems to hold its breath as the villa slowly comes into view.
Lake Maggiore & Isola Bella
Our final destination will be Lake Maggiore, where we will enjoy an exclusive after-hours private visit to Palazzo Borromeo and the extraordinary gardens on Isola Bella. As the last visitors depart and the evening light settles over the lake, we will have the gardens entirely to ourselves for aperitivi, followed by a wonderful farewell dinner by the lake.
Why This Journey is Special
Gardens have always been a passion of ours, and we travel on garden-focused journeys every year. Over more than 30 years of exploring Italy, we’ve learned how to choose the most beautiful places, the best times to see them, and the experiences that make a journey truly unforgettable.
Alongside moments of luxury, we’ll show you the authentic Italy we know and love — the hidden corners, warm personal connections, and everyday beauty that make this country unforgettable.
From leisurely meals in celebrated restaurants to afternoons wandering through lemon-scented courtyards, this is a journey designed to awaken the senses and slow the pace — a chance to savor Italy in all its colors, flavors, and light.
If you’d like to join us, you can see the full itinerary and details here.