The town of Brenzone sul Garda is located on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, between the towns of Malcesine to the north and Torri del Benaco to the south.
The territory in which it lies is typically mountainous, bordered by the steep slopes of Monte Baldo to the east and the waters of Lake Garda to the west. The name Brenzone probably derives from the "Brenni", an ancient population with Germanic origins who inhabited the area of Monte Baldo in remote times. The presence of this massive mountain did not favour the development of large settlements.
Communication by land to and from Brenzone was always complicated over the centuries due to the absence of real roads. Only small trails and mule tracks allowed people to reach it, with all the inconveniences this implied also in relation to the transport of goods. This situation favoured activities connected with the use of boats and trade with the countries on the opposite shore of Lake Garda.
Until the early 20th century, the economy was based mainly on agriculture, dairy production, fishing and olive cultivation. The latter activity is still very present in this area. It should be remembered that Brenzone sul Garda is located in the production area of the Garda DOP Extra Virgin Olive oil, a true excellence of the made in Italy exported and appreciated all over the world.
Curious fact - In the past, there was a significant trade in wood and wood products such as coal and lime. Circular stone constructions called "calchére" were used to store the latter and are still visible today.
It was only after the end of the Second World War and the advent of tourism that a real economic and social change took place, which helped Brenzone sul Garda grow and develop into the splendid town we can admire today.
Festivities and markets | |
Patron Saint | San Giovanni Battista |
Feast day | 24 June |
Weekly market | Tuesday (Castelletto) |
What to see in Brenzone sul Garda
The city of Brenzone sul Garda is composed of several towns, some directly facing the lake such as Magugnano (main town), Castelletto, Assenza and Porto; others are located in more hilly areas on the slopes of Monte Baldo.
One of these places is the small village of Campo di Brenzone, an ancient medieval hamlet that is now abandoned and can only be reached by foot. Characteristic and well-preserved is the small church dedicated to San Pietro in Vincoli, decorated with frescoes of Byzantine origin dating between the 13th and 14th centuries that are still clearly visible today.
During the winter, and more specifically during the Christmas period, this ancient village comes back to life by hosting a crib exhibition in its alleys. This area is very picturesque and therefore suitable both for lovers of photography and for out-of-town walks in the countryside.
Castelletto di Brenzone hosts an interesting ethnographic museum set up in the birthplace of Mother Maria Domenica Mantovani, co-founder, together with Blessed Giuseppe Nascimbeni, of the "Piccole Suore della Sacra Famiglia" (Little Sisters of the Holy Family) Institute. The interior reproduces a typical home of the late 19th and early 20th century, preserving furnishings, tools and utensils typical of the economic activities of the past, such as fishing, olive growing, sheep farming and silkworm breeding.
Also in Castelletto, you can visit the remains of an ancient Roman villa that came to light during excavations in 2004, near the church of San Zeno.
What to do in Brenzone sul Garda
There are numerous activities that can be enjoyed in Brenzone sul Garda, especially in the locations directly facing the lake and of course during the summer period.
Awaiting Italian and foreign guests, there are a large number of accommodation facilities such as hotels, campsites, and residences that can satisfy every type of request, both for those who enjoy a quiet and relaxed holiday, and for those who seek more activity in the sign of sport and excursions.
The area surrounding Brenzone sul Garda is in fact perfect for long walks in nature, amazing biking tours, or enjoying sailing disciplines such as windsurfing or kite surfing.
Families with children can also quickly reach the main amusement parks on Lake Garda, located in the southern part of the lake. It must be remembered that during the summer season there is a punctual service of boats and ferries that move daily from one place to another on the lake. It therefore becomes an interesting option to use these means of transport to join the need to travel with the beauty of an excursion away from the traffic.
There are also numerous shops where tourists can purchase typical local products, spending pleasant hours of shopping.
Image gallery
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Map of tourist sites
Click on the button below to open the detailed map of Brenzone sul Garda, where we have marked the main tourist sights of this place, sorted by typology.
Lake Garda Experiences
A world of activities made for you and your friends. Choose between excursions, guided tours, tastings and much more. Plan your leisure time in the best possible way and enjoy the exclusive special offers.