The west shore, Salò and the Vittoriale

Leaving Sirmione, we follow the lakeside SR45bis west for 33 km to Salò, a ribbon of 1930s tunnels and cliffside bends framing the Monte Pizzocolo at 1,581 m. The so‑called lemon riviera resurfaces in Gardone Riviera where the Vittoriale degli Italiani condenses 1919–1938 Italy into terraces, an amphitheatre, small museums, and, improbably, the cruiser Puglia perched in the hillside by d’Annunzio. A short detour to Toscolano‑Maderno reveals the old paper mills and their valley.

From there, the pace is yours: hotel pick‑up in Sirmione, a Mercedes at disposal, and your dedicated driver handles traffic, parking, and timing while you explore and taste. Stroll Salò’s lungolago Zanardelli, secure a waterfront table for bigoli alla gardesana, then head for the Vittoriale for a guided house tour (about one hour) and the gardens. On the way back, consider gelato in Gargnano or an espresso at the Grand Hotel Gardone, as mood dictates.