Weather Overview for Lake Garda

If you’ve ever wondered what Italy’s largest lake is, then wonder no longer: it's Lake Garda. This immense body of water lies in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, 100km from Milan and 130 km from Venice. Sitting at the foot of the Alps in an enviable location and picturesque setting, Lake Garda is a year round favourite holiday destination.

The lake and its shorelines are divided between the three Italian provinces of Verona, to the south east, Brescia, to the south west, and Trento, to the north. There are various lake side towns and villages scattered around the shores, and countless historic sights to take in - all of which can be enjoyed in a beautiful, Mediterranean influenced climate.

On the whole, the weather is pleasant all year round in Lake Garda. The lake acts as a solar panel which stores heat throughout the year which is released slowly throughout winter and Spring- keeping conditions much more mild than might be expected in this location.

The summer sees temperatures hit highs which some may find uncomfortable - but the day is broken up by cooling breezes which moderate the conditions. Summer sees daily averages of 28 and 29 degrees in August and July respectively, and the temperature can often rise above 30 degrees and stay that way for days on end. The saving grace is the water temperature which sits at a beautiful 19 to 22 degrees throughout summer- perfect for cooling off in. The lake waters are beautiful and clean and you can take part in the variety of water sports that are on offer on the shores. If swimming is on your agenda, the best parts are in the south of the lake and in the shallow more sheltered areas as here you will find the water is much warmer.

Lake Garda is more popular in the summer months, as during the months from June to September the water is warm enough to swim in, the days are long and the temperatures are warm - however, winter can also be a great time to visit, as not only can you make the most of the off season in the form of cheaper prices and fewer tourists, it also gives you an opportunity to take in some of the other things the region has to offer that may go unnoticed when you’re spending your time in the sun of the summer months. The mountains and lake have combined to create the perfect landscape for outdoor sports. Lake Garda is famed for its windsurfing and is also popular for sailing, mountain biking, hiking and climbing. Winter is a great time to get involved in these kind of sports as cool temperatures are less taxing; summer heat can be very exhausting if your sport of choice is more energetic than sunbathing.

The lower winter rainfall and cooling winds also mean that the views across the lakes are usually crystal clear and the sky is often a flawless blue, spotted with only a few white clouds. While you won’t be able to swim in the winter (remember the lake is filled by waters that run down from the mountains after the snow has melted) you can wander the beautiful stone streets and explore the historic towns.

The daily temperature throughout winter is 8 degrees in December and February, and a minimal 6 degrees in January. Daily hours of sunshine falls to about 4 hours and the days are quite a bit shorter than in the summer months, but there are still plenty of bright sunny hours in the day to utilize.

Rainfall is at its maximum during spring and late autumn, so pack a raincoat if visiting during this period. Snow does fall occasionally in the height of winter, and obviously more snowfall is experienced as you move up to high elevations.

If you’re a windsurfing enthusiast then Lake Garda is a great spot for you- though to get the best winds you may have to be an early riser. The Peller northerly wind blows from early morning until about 9 am and is the best, and strongest wind, for windsurfing. Though if you miss this wind, the Ora, which is a southerly wind, blows through the lake in the mid afternoon and continues till about 6pm. The Ora is not as strong as the Peller, though it is a great wind for those who are just learning to windsurf. Head to the northern parts of the lake for the best windsurfing spots. The triangle created by the northern villages of Malcesine, Torbole and Limone is considered one of the best windsurfing spots in the world. The favourable wind conditions are caused by the funnel effect of the mountain valleys, and the difference in temperature between the higher altitudes of the surrounding mountains and the lake valley.