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Sirmione has a superb position at the head of a peninsula jutting out from the southern shores of Lake Garda. In Roman times, wealthy Veronese would come to take the waters (a thermal sulphur spring bubbles into the lake here), with Roman poet Catullus lauding the beauties of the town. Near neighbours include Desenzano del Garda, Peschiera del Garda, with Lake Garda itself, obviously, the main attraction of the town, with boat trips and water sports on the menu, and a pleasant and well-equipped beach at Spiaggia Lido delle Bionde - a good venue for a dip, with restaurants, bars and cafes and a bubbling sulphur spring. There are a number of historic sights too, including the Grotte di Catullo (Grotto of Catullus). Supposedly the remains of Catullus's villa, it's actually the ruins of a Roman spa. See the Church of San Pietro in Mavino, with its 13th century frescoes and 11th century belltower. The other important church is Santa Maria Maggiore, from 1400 and with 15th century frescoes and the modern wooden statue of 'Madonna Enthroned'. This fortified lake town has the Rocca Scaligera (Scaliger Castle) sat within its battlements. This fairytale confection of a castle, thrusting out onto the lake and with water on three sides, was built by the Scaligeri family, which ruled Garda during the 13th century. Nothing much to see within, but head to the turrets and enjoy superb views over the enormous expanse of Lake Garda, as it disappears into the northern horizon.
To the left you'll find a selection of hotels, to get you in the mood
- see also our full listings of Sirmione hotels.
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