you travel enthusiasts, we know full well that the perfect holiday is one where everyone’s smiling, from the little ones to the grown-ups. If your dream is an unforgettable escape to Lake Garda with your children, where fun is guaranteed and relaxation is at your fingertips, you’ve come to the right place. Choosing the ideal family hotel might seem like a mission, but here at Garda Outdoors, we’ve got the compass to guide you.
Lake Garda is a paradise for families, offering a wealth of facilities designed just for you. From the boundless fun of theme parks to the tranquillity of safe beaches, from nature adventures to splashes in child-friendly pools, every area of the lake has something special. Discover with us where to stay to enjoy an experience tailored to everyone’s needs, including your little explorers.
South East Lake Garda: The Kingdom of Fun and Theme Parks
The South East is the most popular choice for families, and for very good reasons. Here, the energy is infectious, and the array of entertainment is almost endless. The region stretches from the lively villages of Peschiera del Garda, Lazise, Bardolino, and Garda, embracing a rich hinterland of vineyards and olive groves that reaches all the way to Verona and Valpolicella.
- Why it’s ideal for families: This is the home of theme parks (like Gardaland, Movieland, and Caneva Aquapark), all easily accessible from any hotel in the area. The beaches are wide and welcoming, perfect for young children, and the lakeside promenades are ideal for bike rides or strolls (think of the cycle path between Lazise and Garda). Many hotels are true family hotels, complete with pools, entertainment, and dedicated services. Proximity to Verona also adds a touch of culture within easy reach.
- Hotels to look for: Large hotels with swimming pools, mini clubs, entertainment, or residences with spacious apartments and communal facilities. click here
South West Lake Garda: Nature, Relaxation, and Peaceful Villages
If your family is looking for a slower pace, a deeper connection with nature, and villages with understated charm, the South West is the perfect choice. This extensive area winds from Salò to the wild Valvestino, including the jewels of Valtenesi (San Felice del Benaco, Manerba del Garda, Moniga del Garda) and the lively Desenzano, stretching to Brescia and Mantua.
- Why it’s ideal for families: It offers more secluded and less crowded beaches, ideal for those seeking tranquillity. The gentle morainic hills are perfect for easy walks or bike rides, and the hinterland is dotted with agriturismi that offer authentic experiences in contact with nature and animals (an excellent accommodation option too). Proximity to art cities like Brescia and Mantua allows for serene cultural excursions.
- Hotels to look for: Agriturismi with educational farms, hotels with large gardens and swimming pools, or residences in more secluded locations to enjoy the peace. click here
North East Lake Garda: Adventure, Sports, and Breathtaking Panoramas
For families who love adrenaline, adventure, and mountain landscapes plunging into the lake, the North East is the perfect destination. This area includes iconic locations like Riva del Garda, Torbole sul Garda, Malcesine, Brenzone sul Garda, and Torri del Benaco, extending to Trento and embracing the mountainous hinterland of Lessinia and Val d’Adige (with Avio and Ala).
- Why it’s ideal for families: This is where sports come alive. Older children and teenagers can try windsurfing, sailing, or SUP at specialised schools. The Malcesine cable car takes you up Monte Baldo, offering panoramic excursions suitable even for younger children. The cycle paths (like the one between Torbole and Riva) are safe and scenic. The mountain setting offers fresh air and plenty of opportunities for trekking. The presence of cities like Trento adds a cultural and museum element (e.g., MUSE).
- Hotels to look for: Facilities equipped for sports enthusiasts, but with family services, or hotels with easy access to cable cars and cycle paths. click here
North West Lake Garda: History, Wild Nature, and Authenticity
If your family is looking for a more intimate experience, in contact with unspoiled nature and ancient history, the North West is the right choice. This region embraces the Valle dei Laghi (with Lake Toblino), the Ledro Valley, the medieval village of Canale di Tenno, and the coast from Limone sul Garda to Gardone Riviera, passing through Tremosine and Gargnano.
- Why it’s ideal for families: Here you’ll find smaller lakes with cooler waters (like Lake Ledro and Lake Tenno), perfect for a swim away from the crowds. The archaeological sites of the Ledro Pile Dwellings offer a fascinating educational experience. The suspended cycle path in Limone is an unmissable attraction. The villages are authentic and less touristy, and the higher areas (like Tremosine and Tignale) guarantee milder temperatures in August. The hinterland offers nature trails and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Hotels to look for: Small hotels with a strong connection to the local area, agriturismi with activities for children, or residences with quiet pools. click here
Tips for your family holiday on Garda
- Book in advance: Family-friendly facilities, especially those with the best services and locations, fill up quickly, particularly during the summer months.
- Check the services: Always verify the presence of swimming pools (perhaps with slides or children’s areas), mini clubs, entertainment, dedicated menus, cots, and high chairs.
- Consider the location: Think about the main activities you want to do (parks, beach, mountains) and choose the area accordingly to minimise travel.
- Explore our portal: Find the ideal accommodation and discover all the family-friendly services on Lake Garda. Your search for the perfect facility starts here: Where to sleep on Lake Garda.
Your family holiday on Lake Garda awaits!
Lake Garda is a stage of wonders where every family can find their perfect fit, from boundless fun to authentic relaxation. Choosing the right hotel means laying the foundations for precious memories that will stay with your children for years. Get ready to experience an unforgettable summer, filled with laughter, adventures, and special moments all together.
