PRODUCED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE
Discover the romance 
of Italy's Lake Garda
Photography: Andrew Urwin
“Lake Garda is deeply special,” says 
Hassan Ahmed, Great Rail Journeys’ 
engaging Tour Manager, as the 
reflections off Italy’s largest lake glint 
across his sunglasses. As a travel writer 
I’ve made myriad trips to Italy, but I'd 
always presumed you had to choose 
between a culture-rich immersion or 
retreat to one of its islands. Great Rail 
Journeys’ Treasures of Lake Garda 
offers the best of both worlds.
ON LAKE GARDA'S SHORES
Hassan swiftly transforms our group 
from total strangers into friends, while 
seamlessly sorting out everyone’s travel 
logistics. “We’ve not just got 27 people, 
but 27 books all with their own colourful 
stories,” he explains. I am regaled with 
some of my fellow travellers’ stories; 
from hot-air balloon escapades to 
going to school with David Bowie. The 
personal touch impresses me, shining 
again when hotel owner Giovanni 
greets our group at his pride and 
joy, the luxurious Hotel Continental 
Wellness & Spa, which has been in the 
same family since the 1970s. 
Giovanni's brother, Giulio, oversees the 
restaurant where there is sound local 
provenance in the fish and seafood, 
with crisp lugana white wine a winning 
partner to our evening meals. 
Travel writer 
Robin McKelvie 
rediscovered 
the gorgeous 
landscapes 
and charms of 
Italy when he 
travelled with us last summer on 
our escorted tour to Lake Garda.
For more information on this 
customer favourite tour, see page 23 
or visit greatrail.com/SRL27
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