Garda, Lake

Largest lake in Italy; situated on the border between the regions of Lombardy and Veneto; area 370 sq km/143 sq mi.

At its northern end in Trentino-Alto Adige, the lake is fed by the River Sarca from Alpine glaciers; the River Mincio issues from its southern end. Garda contains four small islands. The northern shores are mountainous, and in the northeast the lake is overlooked by the grey cliffs of Monte Baldo. The climate is mild in winter, and vines, olives, and citrus fruits abound.

The lake is celebrated for its beauty, and has been praised by writers including Catullus, Virgil, and Dante.