MALCESINE, ITALIA [Lago di Garda]

April 20
It was the day after I returned from Morocco and at about 9 am PJ sent me a text saying that he had the day off. We decided to take a trip to Lago di Garda, one of our favorite places in Italy! We decided to try a new town, as we have already been to Bardolino, Riva del Garda, Desenzano, Sirmione, and Peschiera, so we headed up to Malcesine. It was about an hour and a half away, but half of the ride was along the lake so there was pretty scenery.

Along the drive

It was lunch time when we arrived so we sat and had a spritz and a panini along the water. We noticed a lot of German and Austrian license plates so it seems to be quite a destination for them. After lunch we meandered through the quaint streets up to the castle. From there we headed to the funivia [cable car] to go up to the top of Monte Baldo. Next time I would like to hike it, but it was great to get to the top rather quickly. Monte Baldo is part of the Italian Alps. The Peace Trail is along this range, which is considered 'one of the most important long distance trails in Northern Italy'.

We spent some time walking along the grass and taking in the views. There was still a little bit of snow but most had melted. It was a little hazy, so the views didn't extend as far as other days, but it was still worth it! After walking around we found ourselves some wine and lounged in the rifugio lounge chairs. 

"Is that a treat in your hand?"

Wanting a slice of pizza!

The approach to the castle 

The summit

The castle in the distance

Overall, the town and the mountain were great and we hope to get back there to do some hiking soon. We have ridden on cable cars in Italy a few times and they are usually really lax with the muzzle rules, but here they were strict. You can rent one with a small deposit which they return once you return the muzzle. Reesey has never worn one before but she did great, although she looked awfully sad when she had to have it on [poor little thing]. 

The saddest little face!