The walk along the Sirmione Peninsula is the most fascinating urban excursion on Lake Garda: 8.5 km that crosses the entire peninsula from the Scaligero Castle to the Grotte di Catullo, touching the thermal baths, beaches and medieval alleys of the Pearl of Garda.
The route
It starts from the drawbridge of the Scaliger Castle, the only example of a lake fortress in Italy. Through the alleys of the old town, past boutiques, ice-cream parlours and restaurants, you reach the quieter part of the peninsula where olive groves and meadows slope down to the lake.
The path continues to the tip of the peninsula where the Grotte di Catullo, the remains of the largest Roman villa in northern Italy (1st century A.D.), are located. The archaeological site is spectacular: mighty walls, arches and terraces overlooking the lake with 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains.
The thermal baths
Along the way you can reach the Terme di Sirmione, fed by sulphurous thermal springs that gush out at 69°C from the bottom of the lake. The Terme di Catullo and Terme Virgilio offer wellness treatments with the healing properties of thermal water. At Jamaica Beach, on the tip, natural thermal springs emerge among the rocks on the shoreline.
Practical tips
Completely flat route, accessible to everyone including pushchairs. The Grotte di Catullo has an entrance fee with seasonal opening hours. Avoid central hours in summer – the peninsula is very crowded. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times. Parking at the entrance to Sirmione (chargeable, arrive early). The little electric train connects the car park to the historic centre.
Characteristics
Directions
Starting from the external parking lot, cross the historic center of Sirmione to reach Scaliger Castle, a 13th-century fortress surrounded by water. After visiting the castle, continue along the peninsula.
Walk through narrow streets, churches, and gardens until you reach the tip of the peninsula with Catullus Caves, the largest Roman villa in northern Italy (1st century BC). The archaeological site offers unparalleled views of the lake.
How to get there
By car: from the A4 motorway, Sirmione exit. From Verona approximately 25 minutes, from Brescia approximately 30 minutes. The historic center is pedestrian-only: park outside and continue on foot. By train: Desenzano station, then bus to Sirmione.
Where to park
Paid parking outside the historic center of Sirmione. In summer it fills up quickly: arrive before 9:00 AM or use the ferry from Desenzano or Peschiera.
Starting point coordinates
Recommended gear
Comfortable walking shoes. Water, sunscreen, hat. Swimsuit if you want to swim at Jamaica Beach (pebbled). Tickets for the Castle and Catullus Caves.
Safety
Flat and safe route. At Catullus Caves pay attention to uneven ground and unprotected areas of the archaeological site. In summer the sun is intense: protect yourself adequately. Partially accessible with a stroller.
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