Punta San Vigilio

The basics

The entire Punta San Vigilio promontory is a private estate, so visitors must pay for admission to access the grounds (Parco San Vigilio), while clients of the estate’s hotel and restaurant can enter the area for free. Once inside, you can linger to explore the paths, take a dip in either the pool or at the beach, and relax on lounge chairs set up among the olive groves. Visitors can also access the restaurant and tavern for meals and drinks overlooking the lake and visit the church and villa. The point is especially famous for its spectacular sunset views over Lake Garda each evening.

Things to know before you go

• The north side of the promontory (Baia delle Sirene) is also private property, and visitors must rent an umbrella and beach lounger to access the beach and its services.
• The Punta San Vigilio estate allows a limited number of visitors to enter the grounds each day, so it is always less crowded than other destinations on Lake Garda.
• The admission fee includes access to Parco San Vigili and its facilities for the entire day, including restrooms, changing rooms, showers, Wi-Fi, and parking.
• The estate’s restaurant is open for lunch and dinner; the bar is open all day and into the evening. Visitors are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks to picnic.
• The grounds and facilities are partially accessible to wheelchairs; confirm accessibility in advance of your visit.

How to get there

Located on the east shore of Lake Garda, Punta San Vigilio can be reached on foot or by bike by heading north from Garda. You can also drive—there’s a reserved parking area—or take a water taxi to the tiny marina on the point.

When to get there

Punta San Vigilio is busiest in the summer and on the weekends, so visit in the late spring or early fall to have the estate virtually to yourself. The point juts out into Lake Garda to the west and offers some of the best sunset views along the eastern shore.

Exploring Lake Garda’s eastern shore

Lake Garda is ringed with pretty resort towns, villas, and gardens, with many of the most picturesque sitting along the lake’s eastern shoreline. The fortified villages of Peschiera del Garda and Lazise offer medieval charm, while Bardolino is known for its red wines produced in the surrounding vineyards. Garda—named for the nearby cliff that was used as a lookout point by the ancient Lombards—is home to the Renaissance Villa Albertini and Palazzo Carlotti.