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Although one of the most well-known resorts in the area (it was already a popular tourist destination in the early 1900s), Riva has managed to retain some of its original charm. Measuring 2½ mls across, the town is restricted from expansion by tunnels at either end, and has a pedestrianised, historic centre clustered around the very tip of the lake. The old town is dominated by a 13th-century watchtower and a moated 12th-century fort (La Rocca), complete with drawbridge. Fashionable shops, along with numerous cafes and restaurants, are situated along the promenade and near the harbour. To the E lies the more modern part of town, which is crowded and unattractive, linked to the old centre by a noisy, dirty main road. The main hotels are located in this part of town, comprising many bland apartment blocks and buildings dating from the 1970s. |
| Suitability |
Mid- to upmarket singles, couples and groups of all ages. Very popular with British tourists. |
| Accommodation |
Numerous hotels of all ranges, although choice is very limited in the old town. |
| Beach |
Pebbled beaches on either side of town. |
| Shopping |
Plenty of fashionable shops. A large open-air market every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month. |
| Entertainment |
Daytime: exploring the old town, including the Apponale watchtower and other old buildings on Piazza 3 Novembre, the fort and several interesting churches; local history and civic museums; 16th-century Venetian bastion; Reptiland reptile centre; water sports including windsurfing, canoeing and sailing; mountain walking; biking; bowling.
Nightlife: discos, piano bars and bars; theatre. |
| Eating |
Numerous pizzeria-style restaurants scattered throughout the old and new town. A couple of local trattorias. Many cafes and ice-cream parlours. |
| Public
Transport |
Good bus links to both sides of the lake and to Milan, Verona and Trento. Regular ferry service to other lakeside towns. |
| Excursions |
Half day: Varone Waterfalls; nearby town of Arco with its castle; year-round cable car up Monte Baldo, known as the "botanical garden of Italy". Full day: Dolomites and town of Trento; Lake Garda tour; Gardaland theme park; water parks; Venice (long day). Two days: Florence. |
| Location |
In N Italy, on the N tip of Lake Garda. 126 mls NE of Milan. 137 mls NW of Venice. 50 mls NW of Verona and its airport. |
| Position |
In the NW corner of Lake Garda, W of where the river Sarca flows into the lake. The Arco valley (the so-called "Gateway to the Dolomites") lies behind, with mountains to the E and W. |
| Contact
Information |
Post Code: 38066
Website: www.enit.it
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| Serving
Airports |
Airport : Verona
Airport Code: VRN
Flight time from ther U.K.: 2 hrs
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