This post is based on a stay in June 2024. As always, it's important to check details with venues direct when planning your own trip as facilities and info can change.
Our accommodation was provided via a competition win. We paid for our own flights and activities.
I won a competition with Eurocamp and could have picked any of their sites for a week's holiday (accommodation only) outside of school holidays.
I settled on Del Garda Village and Camping as it was easy to get to from Newcastle (Newcastle to Verona flights with Tui were £170 return per person including luggage in June) and the perfect place to explore without a car.
I've been to Italy a few times before (check out our reviews of Florence, Genoa and a beautiful All Inclusive Villa in Tuscany) and although I already loved Italy, Lake Garda turned out to be the absolute best place I have ever visited. I am so pleased we decided to stay here.
Why We Loved This Site:
Standard taxis from Verona Airport to Del Garda should cost less than 60e. I booked a fancier private transfer with Welcome Pickups for slightly more which again, I was really pleased with. It is possible to use public transport from the airport too.
Pescheria del Garda where the campsite is based has a train station with direct trains to Milan, Venice and Verona, a ferry port with regular public ferries across Lake Garda and is a bustling town with lots of restaurants, shops, ice cream parlours, beach areas and a Monday market.
If you're visiting with kids (or just like theme parks), there's an abundance of attractions within easy reach (walk/cycle/free shuttle bus/taxi) including Peppa Pig Land, Gardaland, Movie World, LEGO Water Park, another Water Park, Ferarri Land, a Medievil Banquet / Joust and more.
Lots of people have recommended nearby Bella Italia to me in the past and although I was tempted, I know it is WAY busier than Del Garda and that the pools can get absolutely rammed.
- Excellent location by the lake/beach
- Brilliant base with public ferries, buses and a train station within easy walking distance. We could easily access other parts of the lake, Venice, Verona & Milan
- Chilled site with two main pool areas, friendly staff, good facilities and no fights for sunloungers
- Fantastic beach bar - perfect for watching the sunset with delicious pizzas
- Their Aperol Spritz are the best!
- Close to theme and water parks
- Easy to get to from Newcastle (flights to Verona) with a short transfer time (around 20-25 mins)
- Good value accommodation options
- Brill for kids with football school, kids club, playgrounds and mini disco but equally as good for adults - we had a blast
Standard taxis from Verona Airport to Del Garda should cost less than 60e. I booked a fancier private transfer with Welcome Pickups for slightly more which again, I was really pleased with. It is possible to use public transport from the airport too.
Pescheria del Garda where the campsite is based has a train station with direct trains to Milan, Venice and Verona, a ferry port with regular public ferries across Lake Garda and is a bustling town with lots of restaurants, shops, ice cream parlours, beach areas and a Monday market.
If you're visiting with kids (or just like theme parks), there's an abundance of attractions within easy reach (walk/cycle/free shuttle bus/taxi) including Peppa Pig Land, Gardaland, Movie World, LEGO Water Park, another Water Park, Ferarri Land, a Medievil Banquet / Joust and more.
Lots of people have recommended nearby Bella Italia to me in the past and although I was tempted, I know it is WAY busier than Del Garda and that the pools can get absolutely rammed.
Both are good locations (within the town of Pescheria Del Garda) with good facilities but after seeing photos of the hundreds of people racing to grab a sunlounger as soon as the pool opened at Bella Italia during the same week we were there, I am really pleased I picked a more chilled option. There were always sunbeds available at Del Garda.
Del Garda Village and Camping is classed as a medium site with 383 pitches where as Bella Italia is large with 1285 pitches plus an on-site hotel. I would estimate there are four times as many guests at Bella Italia than Del Garda.
When planning my trip, I found the following Facebook groups super useful and would recommend joining if you're thinking of staying:
If you're staying with Eurocamp as we were, you need to check in with the main reception on arrival and then Eurocamp in their little hut. Both are next to each other and right next to where your taxi will drop you off.
We found the main site reception to be brilliant with lots of info and even a colouring table for kids. You can book attraction tickets here too. We arrived at 11am and could not access our accommodation until 3pm. You can leave your cases at reception and collect them later.
Main reception take a photocopy of your passport, provide a map and general overview and give everyone a wristband to wear. Additionally, you will need a key wristband to open the gates which you need to leave a 10e deposit for. We only opted for one between us which was fine for us.
Reception opens at 8am so if you have an early check out, make sure you return your wristband the night before to get your deposit back.
Once checked into the main reception, we checked in with Eurocamp. As expected, our accommodation wasn't ready but they were able to tell us where it was. We were able to access it slightly early at around 2:30pm We didn't really need our rep at any time but they do provide a welcome pack and emergency phone number if needed.
If you do wish to bring your car, there are free covered and secure car parks on site.
You can access and make full use of the site's facilities on check in and check out day. There are clean showers too if you need to freshen up.
This site felt like the smallest site I've stayed on and it was really easy to get your bearings and just a short walk from one end of the site to the other (although on checking, the smallest site we have actually stayed on is Les Ecureuils in France).
There are four pools at Del Garda but in reality, this is broken down into two pool areas (each with two pools). There is the 'busy pool' next to the main reception and a quieter pool amongst the bungalows. It's just a short walk between the two.
On the week of our visit, sunbeds with parasols were always available around both pools and lifeguards were on duty. The pools are enclosed and you have to remove shoes and walk through a pool of water to access the pool areas.
You DO NOT need to wear speedos or swimming hats and inflatables are permitted. The pools are open until 7pm in the summer, perfect for a dip after a day trip.
All pools are not heated and did feel cold on entering but honestly, they were fine once you got used to them. I found swimming in the lake to be WAY colder.
The Busy Pool
The Quiet Pool
Playgrounds
There are a couple of nice playgrounds dotted about the park. They're in good condition and I would say best suited to under 10s. They are marked on the map but with it being a small site, pretty easy to find. All equipment seemed pretty much brand new to me and there was seating for parents / carers.
Sports & Activities
They advertise these activities on boards/tables around the site and just walk around the busy pool announcing that an activity is about to start. There is ZERO pressure to join in.
We didn't try any of the activities (too busy out and about!) but did hear from other families that soccer school was excellent and a brilliant place for kids to start making friends.
All activities are free (well, included with the cost of your holiday).
Gym
Supermarket & Gift Shop
Bike Hire
There is self-service bike and scooter hire by reception. There are posters asking you to download an app and book this way. Most people say this is expensive though and you are better off hiring from one of the rental places by the lake.
Arcades
There is an indoor arcade area next to the evening entertainment / restaurant etc..... The games take euro coins and there is a change machine in there if required.
Laundry / Washing
Most accommodation will not have a bath and only one shower (or no shower if you're camping) but there are lovely and clean family bathrooms available if your children prefer baths.
I popped in to use the facilities before we had access to our accommodation and everything in the shower block was immaculate.
WiFi
I personally didn't use the WiFi but I know others did without issue and were able to steam football / films etc.... without issue across the site. WiFi is free.
Food & Drink Truck
The main place to buy snacks and drinks is a little food truck next to the restaurant/evening entertainment / supermarket.
It's open from 8am (I think) until late into the evening and in the morning sells fantastic pastries and take out coffee. We popped along a few times for breakfast. You can takeaway or there is seating. They do little deals with a pastry, juice and coffee etc.... (see menu below).
They also serve a range of paninis, ice creams, sweet treats, confectionary, hot and cold drinks, wine, cocktails, beer......it's where you'll purchase drinks in the evening but equally a nice place to chill during the day. It's not table service and they take cash or card.
The Aperol Spritz I had here was actually one of my favourites from the whole trip and was a little sweeter than most. There was rarely any kind of queue and service was super friendly.
You can get proper scoops of Gelato here.
There was a decent range of non-alcoholic drinks available.
You may need to click on the photos below to view the menus and prices properly. As a guide, here are a few prices:
We often like to share a bottle of wine in the evenings and despite it being on the menu, were told they weren't able to serve bottles at the bar (I think this was due to glass not being allowed).
Although not extortionate, the prices on site at the bar and restaurant were slightly more than those in town.
We are not usually evening entertainment kind of people but went along on a couple of nights and actually had a good time.
There's a big stage with a little dancefloor underneath, plastic chairs in rows and then a proper seating area with tables and chairs in front of the bar truck.
You can also see the entertainment from the outdoor seating area at the restaurant.
I have stayed in similar accommodation with kids many times over the years and honestly wonder how we all squeezed in. It felt like there wasn't any room to swing a cat!
We didn't cook etc.... and basically just used our accommodation to shower and sleep. If I was on a budget or staying with kids, I'd definitely book this accommodation type again (and there were other adult-only groups staying with Eurocamp) however if I had more cash to spend, I would 100% book a hotel on the lake.
The Grand Hotel in Gardona looked right up my street and a room with a balxony overlooking the lake is on my list for next time.
Back to Eurocamp though. Here's what I liked:
You can also book direct with the site and stay in their accommodation rather than with Eurocamp. They offer villas, caravans, bungalows and glamping and they all looked lovely. As a general rule, booking direct is cheaper. You pay a deposit and then your balance when you check out.
Personally, I would always price both options and probably just go with whichever one was the cheapest / best value. Or if you'd prefer to pay up front, book Eurocamp and if you'd like to pay the balance on departure, book direct.
Our accommodation was just next to the town exit which was super convenient. Basically, exit the gate, turn right and walk all the way along the straight path / road for 5 minutes and you're there.
Pescheria is a 16th century port and has a different feel to the rest of the lake. It's more 'town' like and personally I feel like it's less touristy which is weird considering there are multiple campsites here.
Here's what I liked about the location:
I cannot express how much of a wonderful time we had exploring Lake Garda. It's the best place I've ever visited and Del Garda was a wonderful base to explore from.
I'm going to share another blog soon with the ins and outs of our itinerary but for now, here are some highlights:
I didn't see anyone using a wheelchair either on our site or around Lake Garda. Eurocamp say that in their assessment, this site is accessible. Accessible toilets are available on site.
Some of the terrain was not smooth in some areas but you could avoid this. Ferries around the lake are accessible with some more accessible than others (these are marked on the timetables). The paths to and around the lake were surfaced and flat and 99% of them had dropped curbs.
There are dedicated providers who plan accessible holidays to Lake Garda which leads me to think that on the whole, it must be fairly accessible as a resort. I did notice plenty of lifts etc including at the train station.....
Pescheria does not get as busy as some of the other towns like Sirmione and I feel like you'd have space to manouvre a wheelchair.
Lots of families were there with a pushchair and didn't have any issues that I could see.
If you have any specific access questions, you can get in touch with Del Garda here: https://www.delgarda.it/contact/request-info/?lang=en
Based on Early June 2024........
Phew! Well done for getting to the end of this review. We had the best time staying here and cannot wait to return to Lake Garda.
Looking for other similar holidays? Check out these reviews below:
.png "Del Garda Village and Camping : Lake Garda Eurocamp Review")
Del Garda Village and Camping is classed as a medium site with 383 pitches where as Bella Italia is large with 1285 pitches plus an on-site hotel. I would estimate there are four times as many guests at Bella Italia than Del Garda.
When planning my trip, I found the following Facebook groups super useful and would recommend joining if you're thinking of staying:
- Del Garda Village and Camping Tips (invaluable!)
- Bella Italia Camping Resort (handy for day trips, restaurant recommendations etc)
- Lake Garda Italy
Check In at Del Garda Village and Camping
If you're staying with Eurocamp as we were, you need to check in with the main reception on arrival and then Eurocamp in their little hut. Both are next to each other and right next to where your taxi will drop you off.
We found the main site reception to be brilliant with lots of info and even a colouring table for kids. You can book attraction tickets here too. We arrived at 11am and could not access our accommodation until 3pm. You can leave your cases at reception and collect them later.
Main reception take a photocopy of your passport, provide a map and general overview and give everyone a wristband to wear. Additionally, you will need a key wristband to open the gates which you need to leave a 10e deposit for. We only opted for one between us which was fine for us.
Reception opens at 8am so if you have an early check out, make sure you return your wristband the night before to get your deposit back.
Once checked into the main reception, we checked in with Eurocamp. As expected, our accommodation wasn't ready but they were able to tell us where it was. We were able to access it slightly early at around 2:30pm We didn't really need our rep at any time but they do provide a welcome pack and emergency phone number if needed.
If you do wish to bring your car, there are free covered and secure car parks on site.
You can access and make full use of the site's facilities on check in and check out day. There are clean showers too if you need to freshen up.
This site felt like the smallest site I've stayed on and it was really easy to get your bearings and just a short walk from one end of the site to the other (although on checking, the smallest site we have actually stayed on is Les Ecureuils in France).
Pools at Del Garda Village and Camping
There are four pools at Del Garda but in reality, this is broken down into two pool areas (each with two pools). There is the 'busy pool' next to the main reception and a quieter pool amongst the bungalows. It's just a short walk between the two.
On the week of our visit, sunbeds with parasols were always available around both pools and lifeguards were on duty. The pools are enclosed and you have to remove shoes and walk through a pool of water to access the pool areas.
You DO NOT need to wear speedos or swimming hats and inflatables are permitted. The pools are open until 7pm in the summer, perfect for a dip after a day trip.
All pools are not heated and did feel cold on entering but honestly, they were fine once you got used to them. I found swimming in the lake to be WAY colder.
The Busy Pool
There are two pools here and a few slides. The smaller lagoon style pool (above) has a maximin depth of 0.6m and a toddler slide / water slides / water play area and the larger pool has both sloping and ladder access and a maximim depth of 1.5m.
The slides have different age restrictions - some are for all ages, some for little ones, some for ages 5-12 years. It's also at the lifeguards discretion and the slides weren't supervised directly / all ages seemed to be enjoying them without issue.
There's also a bubble area at the entrance of this pool and it's where the activities such as aqua aerobics take place.
The slides have different age restrictions - some are for all ages, some for little ones, some for ages 5-12 years. It's also at the lifeguards discretion and the slides weren't supervised directly / all ages seemed to be enjoying them without issue.
There's also a bubble area at the entrance of this pool and it's where the activities such as aqua aerobics take place.
There's an entertainment stand at this pool with info about what activities are available and it mostly plays music (RnB / europop/ pop / dance).
There are toilets by the pool.
There are toilets by the pool.
There's also a pool bar at this pool serving ice creams, drinks, snacks, cocktails, lunches and more. There are tables in the shade here too. You can take anything you buy here into the pool area. I loved that as well as more unhealthier options they had pots of fresh fruit and appetising salads for sale. Cash or card accepted.
We stayed during the Euros and they opened this bar area up in the evenings to show the football matches too. This was well advertised across site.
We stayed during the Euros and they opened this bar area up in the evenings to show the football matches too. This was well advertised across site.
I also loved that there is this additional relaxation area directly joined onto the pool and pool bar. You will find the kids club activities around here too but I didn't personally make use of this.
We didn't visit this pool (and I took these photos when I was walking past in the evening which is why it's so quiet) but it looked lovely and chilled.
There is no music here and there are two pools - the children's one with a maximum depth of 0.6m and a main pool with a maximim depth of 1.8m. The slides here are suitable for all of the family and although there isn't a dedicated bar, you are just next to the food/drink truck.
There is no music here and there are two pools - the children's one with a maximum depth of 0.6m and a main pool with a maximim depth of 1.8m. The slides here are suitable for all of the family and although there isn't a dedicated bar, you are just next to the food/drink truck.
Facilities at Del Garda Village and Camping
Playgrounds
There are a couple of nice playgrounds dotted about the park. They're in good condition and I would say best suited to under 10s. They are marked on the map but with it being a small site, pretty easy to find. All equipment seemed pretty much brand new to me and there was seating for parents / carers.
Sports & Activities
On site sport facilities are good, there are tennis courts, football fields, basketball courts, table tennis and vollyball.
You can either bring your own equipment and just turn up and use the facilities or hire any equipment needed from site reception for a 5e cash deposit (refunded when you return equipment).
You can either bring your own equipment and just turn up and use the facilities or hire any equipment needed from site reception for a 5e cash deposit (refunded when you return equipment).
A range of activities are planned across the day including kids club (age 4+ or younger if you stay with them), tennis school, soccer school, ping pong tournaments etc.....
They advertise these activities on boards/tables around the site and just walk around the busy pool announcing that an activity is about to start. There is ZERO pressure to join in.
We didn't try any of the activities (too busy out and about!) but did hear from other families that soccer school was excellent and a brilliant place for kids to start making friends.
All activities are free (well, included with the cost of your holiday).
There are several activities just outside the site which are organised independently including paddle boarding, jet skis, fishing, boat hire etc.... you'll see these advertised on boards if you exit from the beach exit and walk along the beach / lake. Paddleboarding was 15euros.
Gym
The on site gym was actually pretty decent and definitely better than the gym at our hotel in Turkey last year. It's all TechnoGym equipment which although the fitness world can be snobby about is perfectly fine and what I use on a day to day basis at my local gym.
The gym is not staffed and there is a sign saying it's for over 16s only. Just pop in during opening hours which change depending on the seasons. There's no charge.
I personally do not think it was air conditioned but my husband thinks it was. It does not mention air conditioning on their website.
It's small but there's a good range of equipment including dumbells up to 24kg, resistance machines, yoga mats, punch bags, bikes, treadmill, cross trainer.....
If you like running, I spotted people running around site in the morning or there is a flat path out by the lake.
The gym is not staffed and there is a sign saying it's for over 16s only. Just pop in during opening hours which change depending on the seasons. There's no charge.
I personally do not think it was air conditioned but my husband thinks it was. It does not mention air conditioning on their website.
It's small but there's a good range of equipment including dumbells up to 24kg, resistance machines, yoga mats, punch bags, bikes, treadmill, cross trainer.....
If you like running, I spotted people running around site in the morning or there is a flat path out by the lake.
Supermarket & Gift Shop
There is a nice on site supermarket and gift shop (with some GF products). We didn't cook during the week but could have got by just shopping here. It has everything you need and accepts cash or card (card seemed to be preferred as they don't always have change).
In the mornings you can get fresh pretzels from here - they were gorgeous!
If you need something larger, there are big supermarkets just a short walk out of the main campsite entrance (the one you'd drive into).
Opening hours vary but on the week of our visit it seemed to be 8am-7:30pm.
I don't have any photos of the gift shop but they sell swimwear, towels, inflatables, usual gifts....
In the mornings you can get fresh pretzels from here - they were gorgeous!
If you need something larger, there are big supermarkets just a short walk out of the main campsite entrance (the one you'd drive into).
Opening hours vary but on the week of our visit it seemed to be 8am-7:30pm.
I don't have any photos of the gift shop but they sell swimwear, towels, inflatables, usual gifts....
Bike Hire
There is self-service bike and scooter hire by reception. There are posters asking you to download an app and book this way. Most people say this is expensive though and you are better off hiring from one of the rental places by the lake.
There is an indoor arcade area next to the evening entertainment / restaurant etc..... The games take euro coins and there is a change machine in there if required.
Laundry / Washing
Most accommodation will not have a bath and only one shower (or no shower if you're camping) but there are lovely and clean family bathrooms available if your children prefer baths.
I popped in to use the facilities before we had access to our accommodation and everything in the shower block was immaculate.
There's also a large self-service laundry room with washing machines and dryers. Both coin operated and 4euros each - remember to bring your own capsules/detergent or you'll have to buy some when you're there.
There were 4 washing machines and 4 dryers.
There were 4 washing machines and 4 dryers.
I personally didn't use the WiFi but I know others did without issue and were able to steam football / films etc.... without issue across the site. WiFi is free.
Restaurant, Cafes & Bars at Del Garda Village and Camping
Food & Drink Truck
The main place to buy snacks and drinks is a little food truck next to the restaurant/evening entertainment / supermarket.
It's open from 8am (I think) until late into the evening and in the morning sells fantastic pastries and take out coffee. We popped along a few times for breakfast. You can takeaway or there is seating. They do little deals with a pastry, juice and coffee etc.... (see menu below).
They also serve a range of paninis, ice creams, sweet treats, confectionary, hot and cold drinks, wine, cocktails, beer......it's where you'll purchase drinks in the evening but equally a nice place to chill during the day. It's not table service and they take cash or card.
The Aperol Spritz I had here was actually one of my favourites from the whole trip and was a little sweeter than most. There was rarely any kind of queue and service was super friendly.
You can get proper scoops of Gelato here.
There was a decent range of non-alcoholic drinks available.
You may need to click on the photos below to view the menus and prices properly. As a guide, here are a few prices:
- Coffee 1.3e
- Croissant 1.5e
- Panini 6e
- Ice Cream 7e (you can get Gelato from 2e in town)
- Aperol Spritz 5e
- Kids Cocktails 5e
- Beer 3.5-6e
- Glass of wine 3e
We often like to share a bottle of wine in the evenings and despite it being on the menu, were told they weren't able to serve bottles at the bar (I think this was due to glass not being allowed).
Although not extortionate, the prices on site at the bar and restaurant were slightly more than those in town.
Main Restaurant
Pool Bar
The onsite restaurant is an easy option for a meal out. It's open 12-2:30pm and then 6-10:30pm. You don't need to book, just pop along and they will seat you. There is plenty of space with indoor and outdoor seating.
If you're outside, you can watch the evening entertainment from your table. Parents of older children could finish up their meal with more wine / coffee while watching their kids run around on the dance floor.
Click on the photo below / download it to your device to zoom in and check the menu.
If you're outside, you can watch the evening entertainment from your table. Parents of older children could finish up their meal with more wine / coffee while watching their kids run around on the dance floor.
Click on the photo below / download it to your device to zoom in and check the menu.
They don't have GF items marked here but do say to ask about allergies. You can definitely get GF pizza at a cafe just next to the station as I spotted a board outside advertising. The beach bar just outside of the site also has a GF pizza menu.
From what I've read, GF options are readily available at most places in Lake Garda but I don't have any first hand experience of this so can't comment any further.
You can order takeaway from the restaurant.
The service was nice and friendly here, they bring out a big basket of bread with oils on arrival (with a 1.5e cover charge) which is fairly standard and our pizzas and pasta were lovely.
I have zero complaints about this restaurant but it didn't wow us either and definitely didn't compare to the wonderful places we dined around Italy. I'd probably compare it to dining somewhere like Zizis / Bella Italia back home. I would recommend and go here again, especially for convenience but it's not going to be the best meal of your holiday.
From what I've read, GF options are readily available at most places in Lake Garda but I don't have any first hand experience of this so can't comment any further.
You can order takeaway from the restaurant.
The service was nice and friendly here, they bring out a big basket of bread with oils on arrival (with a 1.5e cover charge) which is fairly standard and our pizzas and pasta were lovely.
I have zero complaints about this restaurant but it didn't wow us either and definitely didn't compare to the wonderful places we dined around Italy. I'd probably compare it to dining somewhere like Zizis / Bella Italia back home. I would recommend and go here again, especially for convenience but it's not going to be the best meal of your holiday.
How cheap is the wine though! 13 euros for a litre of house wine on a holiday park. It was £22.50 for the cheapest 750ml bottle in Center Parcs this year so if you compare like for like, there's a canny difference (£28.13 for a litre of wine at Center Parcs compared with £11.79 at Del Garda).
There's a kids menu too, although full pizzas start at 6euros so this may be a better option (you can take the leftovers away for later).
Lots of places seem really happy to half a pizza between two people and split across two plates, we noticed a few people doing this.
There's a kids menu too, although full pizzas start at 6euros so this may be a better option (you can take the leftovers away for later).
Lots of places seem really happy to half a pizza between two people and split across two plates, we noticed a few people doing this.
Pool Bar
As mentioned earlier, there is a pool bar too but I have already shared info on that.
Evening Entertainment at Del Garda Village and Camping
We are not usually evening entertainment kind of people but went along on a couple of nights and actually had a good time.
There's a big stage with a little dancefloor underneath, plastic chairs in rows and then a proper seating area with tables and chairs in front of the bar truck.
You can also see the entertainment from the outdoor seating area at the restaurant.
The entertainment team are SO enthusiastic and happy / friendly. They really got the kids involved and were dancing with them, sharing high fives etc.....
Yes, it's a money making scheme but you can buy the same Tshirts the entertainment team wear at a little stand by the stage and become their deputy for the week which I thought was cute.
The kids mini disco features songs in all languages but they are really catchy and it's easy for everyone to pick up and follow the dance moves.
We stayed for karaoke one night which was a good laugh.
It's basic and traditional holiday camp fun. You're not going to get a west end show but we enjoyed what we saw and the kids on site were having a blast.
It's really chilled - dogs on leads are welcome, kids bring their scooters down, little ones are asleep in their pushchairs. There wasn't any drunk / rowdy behaviour at all.
Yes, it's a money making scheme but you can buy the same Tshirts the entertainment team wear at a little stand by the stage and become their deputy for the week which I thought was cute.
The kids mini disco features songs in all languages but they are really catchy and it's easy for everyone to pick up and follow the dance moves.
We stayed for karaoke one night which was a good laugh.
It's basic and traditional holiday camp fun. You're not going to get a west end show but we enjoyed what we saw and the kids on site were having a blast.
It's really chilled - dogs on leads are welcome, kids bring their scooters down, little ones are asleep in their pushchairs. There wasn't any drunk / rowdy behaviour at all.
Eurocamp Accommodation
We stayed in 'Comfort' accommodation which I think is Eurocamp's most basic offering. We had two bedrooms and our cabin slept up to 5.I have stayed in similar accommodation with kids many times over the years and honestly wonder how we all squeezed in. It felt like there wasn't any room to swing a cat!
We didn't cook etc.... and basically just used our accommodation to shower and sleep. If I was on a budget or staying with kids, I'd definitely book this accommodation type again (and there were other adult-only groups staying with Eurocamp) however if I had more cash to spend, I would 100% book a hotel on the lake.
The Grand Hotel in Gardona looked right up my street and a room with a balxony overlooking the lake is on my list for next time.
Back to Eurocamp though. Here's what I liked:
- The only accommodation with enclosed decking
- Partially covered decking so we could sit out in all weathers
- Very clean and well equipped with everything we could need
- Liked that we had an emergency on-call number if needed
- Easy to add sheets and towels onto our booking
- Air Con was fantastic
- The shower was modern and hot
- Separate shower to toilet
- Beds were comfortable but did dip in the middle
- Plenty of plug sockets (including next to the bed) - bring adapters and extensions
- The price! Our stay was a competition win but the actual cost was £700 for up to 5 guests for a week in June which is a steal
Here's what I didn't like:
- OMG the wine glasses were TINY and like thimbles, most people buy/bring their own
- The accommodation seemed really wedged together and there was limited privacy
- Our cabin felt really cramped and constantly messy - like there wasn't enough storage
- This could happen anywhere but how annoying is it having to listen to your neighbour's music / TikTok on full blast
- The rain was so loud
- We were in a quiet area at the back of the park so noise wasn't an issue but I know other accommodation is close to other campsites which can get loud in the evenings. If this is an issue, mention it to your rep and they will try and move you.
- We did have to do a few housekeeping tasks - make and strip beds, empty bin, empty fridge but to be honest this felt really minimal compared to the HUGE lists of chores you are left at some self catering accommodation and I was happy to do it.
Personally, I would always price both options and probably just go with whichever one was the cheapest / best value. Or if you'd prefer to pay up front, book Eurocamp and if you'd like to pay the balance on departure, book direct.
- Book direct: https://www.delgarda.it/?lang=en
- Book with Eurocamp: https://www.eurocamp.co.uk/campsites/italy/lake-garda/camping-del-garda
Visiting Pescheria Del Garda - Beach Exit
Del Garda Village is completely enclosed with a fence. There are three exits via electronic gate which is activated by your wristband. The beach and town exits close at 11pm (although we were actually able to use one after this time) and if you are re-entering after this time and weren't as lucky as us, you'll have to walk all the way around to the main (car) entrance.
The exits are well signposted and easy to find. They're also pointed out to you on the map on check in. It can be a little confusing walking back for the first time as there are several gated camspites together and they all look so similar. Look out for the little green camping sign with 'Del Garda Village' on it to keep you right.
The beach exit is by the quiet pool / bungalows. You exit the site and then walk for 3-5 minutes along a road and then path to get to the beach / lake. It's really easy.
The exits are well signposted and easy to find. They're also pointed out to you on the map on check in. It can be a little confusing walking back for the first time as there are several gated camspites together and they all look so similar. Look out for the little green camping sign with 'Del Garda Village' on it to keep you right.
The beach exit is by the quiet pool / bungalows. You exit the site and then walk for 3-5 minutes along a road and then path to get to the beach / lake. It's really easy.
The signs bring you directly to the lake where you'll find activity providers (paddleboarding etc) and a lovely beach bar. Loved the staff, food and vibe here. No bookings - just turn up. I recommend a table at sunset. There's also an ice cream kiosk and they make a canny Hugo. I much preferred this place to the campsite restaurant. It's dog friendly too.
If you face the lake and turn right, walk along the path for a few minutes and you'll come to another beach bar / restaurant. Lots of people highly rate this place too but we never made it!
Face the lake and turn left, walk along the path with the lake on your right and you'll come to the beach area. It's a shingle beach with sloped access to the lake and life guards on duty.
There are pedalos to hire (10e), loungers (20e for two with parasol and table) plus a little beach bar with drinks, toasties and ice cream. We spent an afternoon here and swam in the lake too. It was so nice! Definitely recommend spending some time at the beach. Make sure you bring water shoes.
If you face the lake and turn right, walk along the path for a few minutes and you'll come to another beach bar / restaurant. Lots of people highly rate this place too but we never made it!
Face the lake and turn left, walk along the path with the lake on your right and you'll come to the beach area. It's a shingle beach with sloped access to the lake and life guards on duty.
There are pedalos to hire (10e), loungers (20e for two with parasol and table) plus a little beach bar with drinks, toasties and ice cream. We spent an afternoon here and swam in the lake too. It was so nice! Definitely recommend spending some time at the beach. Make sure you bring water shoes.
Continue walking keeping the lake on your right and you'll come across bike hire, boat hire kiosks, a few more restaurants and bars and then you'll eventually end up in town.
Visiting Pescheria Del Garda - Town Exit
Our accommodation was just next to the town exit which was super convenient. Basically, exit the gate, turn right and walk all the way along the straight path / road for 5 minutes and you're there.
Pescheria is a 16th century port and has a different feel to the rest of the lake. It's more 'town' like and personally I feel like it's less touristy which is weird considering there are multiple campsites here.
Here's what I liked about the location:
- Stunning turquoise lake which was beautiful to walk along with places to stop for drinks with a view
- It felt like a pretty place to walk around (although not the most picturesque place on the lake)
- Direct access to the lake for swimming / paddleboarding / boat trips
- Weekly Monday market
- Easy access to public ferries, buses and trains
- Plenty of places to stop for gelato, Aperol, coffee or food
- Nice shops
- Very easy access to theme and water parks
- Not far from Verona airport / not too expensive for a private transfer
Something to consider:
- Not too many lakeside dining options compared to other towns on the lake
- Like most of the lake, there isn't a buzzing nightlife scene here. There are a few bars but it's more the kind of place where people stay in a restaurant after their meal for a few drinks
- Taxis mostly need to be pre-booked, there isn't really a taxi rank / culture in Lake Garda
- Buses can get busy / don't run on time
- Weather can be unpredictable
Below is the exit / entrance to town. Easy to spot from a distance with the huge mast.
Exploring Lake Garda
I cannot express how much of a wonderful time we had exploring Lake Garda. It's the best place I've ever visited and Del Garda was a wonderful base to explore from.
I'm going to share another blog soon with the ins and outs of our itinerary but for now, here are some highlights:
- What We Did On Check In Day
- A Michelin Star Meal in Pescheria
- Taking a Cable Car up Mount Baldo
- Catching the Ferry to Malcesine and Limone
- A Chill Day in Pescheria (Market, Beach and Pools)
- Sunset Meal at the Beach Bar
- A Day in Verona
- Our Trip to Sirmione
- A 5* Spa Day on Lake Garda for just £30
- A Day in Venice
- Another Day in Venice (plus a wasted trip to Murano)
Accessibility
I didn't see anyone using a wheelchair either on our site or around Lake Garda. Eurocamp say that in their assessment, this site is accessible. Accessible toilets are available on site.
Some of the terrain was not smooth in some areas but you could avoid this. Ferries around the lake are accessible with some more accessible than others (these are marked on the timetables). The paths to and around the lake were surfaced and flat and 99% of them had dropped curbs.
There are dedicated providers who plan accessible holidays to Lake Garda which leads me to think that on the whole, it must be fairly accessible as a resort. I did notice plenty of lifts etc including at the train station.....
Pescheria does not get as busy as some of the other towns like Sirmione and I feel like you'd have space to manouvre a wheelchair.
Lots of families were there with a pushchair and didn't have any issues that I could see.
If you have any specific access questions, you can get in touch with Del Garda here: https://www.delgarda.it/contact/request-info/?lang=en
Let's Talk About Bugs & Animals
- Snakes - there are snakes around Lake Garda and sometimes they sunbathe on the rocks by the lake. We didn't see one. We definitely didn't see one at the beach and if anything, wildlife stay well clear of the beach areas as they know this is where the humans are (we didn't see any fish here either)
- Swans - it was very weird swimming in the lake alongside swans. I didn't like it and when they got too close, I had to leave. They didn't bother anyone at all but I don't trust them!
- Fish - you will see HUGE fish in the lake as you walk past specific parts (especially by the old walls in Pescheria). We also watched them as we dined at lakeside restaurants and there were loads swimming under us on the jetty at the spa
- Mosquitos - we spotted a lot of mosquitos but weren't bothered by them. A top tip is to buy the local lemon soap and use this and just use regular repellent. I was bitten a lot in Mexico but not at all here.
- Lizards - you might see a few small lizards running about the site
- Ducks - ducks from the lake waddle around the site between accommodation, they're really funny
- I didn't see a single bug in our accommodation during our stay. We were very careful to keep our doors closed
The Weather
When you think of Italy you may picture long sunny days in your head. Well Lake Garda has it's own micro-climate and actually kind of reminded me of Florida!
It can get very humid, thunderstorms and rain are fairly common but equally, it's lovely and warm/sunny too.
Definitely bring a brolly and carry it with you on day trips. It was mostly dry and sunny during the day but we did have a couple of passing showers in Limone and Verona and then a storm rolled in as we were waiting to catch the last ferry home from Sirmione. Sometimes the storms really sneak up on you!
The weather forecast is very unreliable and not accurate. On the week of our stay, rain was forecast for every hour of every day. In reality, it was mostly hot and sunny during the day but we had a few crazy thunderstorms in the evening and a couple of showers which lasted for 20 minutes or so on a few days.
With such an unpredictable weather pattern, I'd recommend not really booking much in advance and just waiting to see what the weather does on the day before making plans.
I wouldn't put the mixed weather put you off. I think May and June tend to be the most unpredictable. However don't expect no rain either.
It can get very humid, thunderstorms and rain are fairly common but equally, it's lovely and warm/sunny too.
Definitely bring a brolly and carry it with you on day trips. It was mostly dry and sunny during the day but we did have a couple of passing showers in Limone and Verona and then a storm rolled in as we were waiting to catch the last ferry home from Sirmione. Sometimes the storms really sneak up on you!
The weather forecast is very unreliable and not accurate. On the week of our stay, rain was forecast for every hour of every day. In reality, it was mostly hot and sunny during the day but we had a few crazy thunderstorms in the evening and a couple of showers which lasted for 20 minutes or so on a few days.
With such an unpredictable weather pattern, I'd recommend not really booking much in advance and just waiting to see what the weather does on the day before making plans.
I wouldn't put the mixed weather put you off. I think May and June tend to be the most unpredictable. However don't expect no rain either.
How Much Did This Break Cost?
Based on Early June 2024........
- Flights = £170 return per person including luggage. Booked in Jan with Tui Newcastle-Verona
- Transfers = £70 each way in an executive vehicle for 2 people and 4 pieces of luggage booked with Welcome Pick Ups
- Accommodation = Comfort Accommodation via Eurocamp for up to 5 guests with Accident Waiver, Linen, Towels and Welcome Pack was £1100 reduced to £700 with various special offers (although this was waived as a competition win)
- Breakfasts around 4e per person for pastries and coffee from the hut on site
- 3 course lunches with a bottle of wine by the lake around 35euros per person
- 2 course evening meal on site / by the lake with wine around 30 euros per person
- Aperol Spritz usually 5euros
- Large glass of local wine 2euros
Drinks usually always come with crisps, olives and nibbles around Lake Garda - Glass of coke 4euros (cheaper to drink wine!)
- Small gelato 2euros
- Pizzas around 7-8euros
- Ferry to Sirmione 5euros each way
- Train to Verona less than 10 euros return (first class)
- Spa Day 30 euros each
- Loungers at the beach 20euros for 2 including parasol and table
Overall, I found Lake Garda to be way more reasonable than expected and on the whole, cheaper than a UK city / the Lake District. It certainly felt easier on the pocket than my recent trips to Athens and Amsterdam.
Looking for other similar holidays? Check out these reviews below:
- 5 Car Free Eurocamp Holidays from Newcastle
- Staying at Duinrell with Eurocamp
- Our Relaxing Eurocamp Holiday in Vendee
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