What to do in Manerba del Garda (even when it rains): 10 original ideas
Manerba del Garda is located on the southern Brescia side of Lake Garda, between Salò and Desenzano, in one of the most renowned naturalistic areas of Lake Benaco. It's a splendid destination, nestled in the green morainic hills of Valtenesi.
There are many things to do – and see – in Manerba, whether the weather is good or bad. This place is certainly fascinating due to its location, architecture, landscapes, and history. In fact, Manerba boasts a millennia-old past (with remains from the Mesolithic period and stilt houses found here) and unique sites such as its park and beaches, some of which are considered the most beautiful on Lake Garda.
It’s a perfect holiday destination, whether for a romantic weekend getaway or a fun time with friends. But what can you do in Manerba del Garda? Certainly, visit its main attractions, like the historic centre, as well as several interesting spots such as:
- the Rocca di Manerba (via Giacomo Matteotti 10), perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the lake. You can reach it by walking along the park's path, where you’ll see the remains of an ancient medieval castle and take in views of the Sirmione peninsula, Isola del Garda, and San Biagio;
- the Church of San Giorgio Martire (via Santa Maria), a small chapel on a hill near the Porto di Dusano, surrounded by cypress trees and offering an exceptional view of Lake Benaco;
- the Valtenesi Civic Archaeological Museum (via della Rocca 20), with various sections detailing the history of this splendid area;
- the beaches, considered little gems of Lake Garda. Worth visiting: La Romantica, Pisenze beach, and Baia Bianca;
- San Biagio Island (also known as Rabbit Island), which can be reached from Porto Torchio by boat or on foot, but only when the water level is low and doesn’t rise above your knees (usually from September to November).
These are all places worth discovering. But what are some activities in Manerba that can enrich your stay in this magical town on Lake Garda?
What to do in Manerba del Garda: 5 ideas
Manerba del Garda is one of Italy’s happiest towns (according to the prestigious ranking by 'Il Sole 24 Ore'). Known for its Rocca immersed in a nature reserve, the town also boasts several trails offering hikes of varying difficulty that can be enjoyed on sunny days, providing breathtaking views of Lake Benaco or surprising you with unexpected landscapes. In addition to trekking and sports, Manerba offers original activities perfect for families, team-building events at Lake Garda, or unique experiences for graduation parties, bachelor and bachelorette celebrations. Here are 5 outdoor activities we recommend.
1. Photo trekking at the Rocca
The Natural Park of the Rocca di Manerba is a magical, unspoilt place in which to take long walks and splendid photographs. To combine these two activities, there is nothing better than trying your hand at photo-trekking, abandoning yourself to the wonder of the surrounding environment, with natural views of rare beauty that can be admired - and immortalised - along the way, deepening the technique with a professional photographer.
2. E-bike tour
A sunny day is the perfect opportunity to hop on an e-bike and explore Manerba via scenic nature trails. Pedal past vineyards, olive groves, beech and chestnut woods, and historic sites such as the archaeological area and Rocca di Manerba. This medium-difficulty excursion is suitable for both individuals and large groups, as well as families with children.
3. Birdwatching in the park
For nature lovers and photographers, birdwatching and shooting in the Rocca di Manerba Nature Park might be just the activity for you. At a respectful distance from the local fauna, you’ll observe various species that inhabit the area during nesting and migration periods, learning about them and honing your photography skills with a professional guide.
4. Walk along the Via di Minerva
If you enjoy walking and have an eco-friendly spirit, when the sun is shining in Manerba, set out for a trek along the Via di Minerva, which winds through the Rocca and Sasso Nature Reserve. The trail is perfect for discovering villages, small towns, and churches, with stunning lake views along the way.
5. Discover the world of bees
Bees are vital to our ecosystem but are often not observed up close. Just a few kilometres from Manerba, in San Felice del Benaco, you can visit an apiary. Protected and guided by a professional beekeeper, you’ll have a unique experience discovering the life inside the hive and the importance of these pollinators for the planet.
5 things to do in Manerba del Garda when it rains
Wondering what to do when it rains in Manerba del Garda? Here are five suggestions for spending your days in relaxation, discovery, and fun.
1. Yoga and meditation at a studio
In nearby Lonato, there’s a renowned studio dedicated to oriental disciplines like yoga. Here, you can take part in a one-on-one yoga session (or group classes), practising different poses to release joint and muscle tension. It’s perfect when paired with a meditation class to help you relax and restore positive energy.
2. Olive oil tasting at an organic farm
The olive oil from Lake Garda has unique qualities worth discovering. If it rains, you can visit an organic farm in Puegnago to taste a selection of products derived from their own single-variety olives. This activity is perfect for those wanting to learn about the different types of olives and how to distinguish their scent, colour, and taste, all under the guidance of the farm’s founder (an official taster) or one of their close collaborators.
3. Massage therapy with a panoramic lake view
In Padenghe, not far from Manerba, you can book a massage therapy treatment with a qualified masseuse at an exclusive centre offering a magical view of Lake Garda. It’s an excellent choice for relaxing and relieving accumulated tension, working on the most strained muscle and joint areas, including the back and neck.
4. Local wine tasting
Also in Padenghe, you can join a DOC wine tasting experience with a visit to the winery. This is a unique opportunity to learn about the producer’s history, see where the wines are made and stored, and taste three of Lake Garda’s main DOC wines. The tasting is paired with a platter of high-quality, locally sourced products.
5. Terrarium or Kokedama workshop
Near Manerba, in the small town of Raffa, there’s a creative boutique run by a renowned flower designer. On rainy days, you can take part in two fascinating artisanal workshops. In the terrarium workshop, you’ll create a miniature plant world inside a designer vase, while the Kokedama workshop teaches the secrets of the ancient Japanese art of creating a vase using clay and flower roots. Both experiences are perfect for individuals, families, or groups of friends.
What to do near Manerba del Garda?
From Manerba del Garda, you can easily reach other locations by train, car, or public transport. Lake Garda is a beloved destination, offering a wide range of fun, engaging, exciting, and unique activities, both indoors and outdoors. Discover all the experiences available on Lake Garda at NowMyPlace!
