Does Limone sul Garda still grow lemons?

Yes, though in much smaller quantities than historically. The lemon terraces (limonaie) - distinctive stone columns and wooden beam frames that supported the glass panels over the lemon trees in winter - are the architectural signature of Limone. A few terraces have been restored and are maintained for cultural and touristic purposes. Commercial lemon production largely ended in the 20th century when competition from southern Italian lemons made it uneconomical.

Where does the name Limone come from?

Despite the obvious connection, most scholars believe the name Limone predates the introduction of lemon cultivation and derives from a Latin or Lombard root. Lemons were introduced to the lake in the 14th century. Commercial cultivation peaked in the 18th and 19th centuries when Limone was a major supplier to Austria and Germany (lemons couldn't grow north of the Alps and the lake's microclimate made cultivation possible).

How do I get to Limone sul Garda?

Limone is on the western shore between Riva del Garda and Gargnano. By ferry from Riva del Garda (approximately 15 minutes) or Malcesine (approximately 15 minutes by fast ferry). By car via the SS45bis Gardesana Occidentale road - note that several sections pass through narrow tunnels. There is no train connection. Buses run from Brescia (approximately 1.5 hours) and Riva del Garda (approximately 30 minutes).

Is Limone sul Garda crowded?

Limone receives a large number of day-trippers in summer, primarily from Riva del Garda and Malcesine by ferry. The village has a small permanent population (approximately 1,200 residents) and the main waterfront road (now pedestrianised for most of the day) can feel very busy between 11am and 4pm in July and August. Staying overnight gives you the town before and after the day-tripper rush.

What is the ApoA1 Milano story?

In the 1980s, researchers discovered that several residents of Limone sul Garda had an unusual genetic variant (ApoA1 Milano) that protected against cardiovascular disease despite high fat diets. This has been extensively researched as a potential treatment for heart disease. The variant is named after the town and its carriers are all descended from a couple who lived in Limone in the 18th century.

Limone sul Garda Guide | The Italy Guides

Limone sul Garda occupies a narrow strip between the lake and the steep cliffs of the western shore, roughly halfway up the lake in the province of Brescia. The village is hemmed in so tightly that the historic centre rises in tiers up the cliff face, connected by steep lanes and stairways. The lemon terraces (limonaie) - the stone column-and-beam frames that once supported glass winter protection over the lemon trees - are the architectural emblem of the western shore. Lake Garda boat tours from Riva del Garda often include a stop at Limone, making the ferry an easy way to arrive without navigating the narrow shore road.

The Lemon Terraces (Limonaie)

The cultivation of lemons in Limone was a significant economic activity from the 14th century through to the early 20th century. The lake’s mild microclimate, sheltered from northern winds by the surrounding mountains and warmed by the lake’s thermal mass, allowed lemons to grow at a latitude (45°N) where they would normally be impossible. The distinctive limonaie - tall stone pillars connected by wooden beams, designed to support glass panels that protected the trees from frost in winter - are scattered along the hillside above and within the village.

The Limonaia del Castel (Via IV Novembre) is the best-restored example, open to visitors. Entry approximately €4 as of 2026. Inside, lemon and citrus trees grow in the original stone-floored beds between the columns. The history of the trade and the cultivation technique is explained. A few other limonaie can be viewed from the outside by walking the lanes above the main road - the Via Limonaia path runs through several terraced areas.

Swimming and Beaches

Limone’s position on the western shore gives it good afternoon sun (the shore faces east). The main public beach area is north of the ferry landing - a mix of pebble and small-stone shore. Several beach establishments (lidos) charge approximately €10–15 per person for sunbed and umbrella hire as of 2026; the free public area is at the northern end.

The water in this section of the lake is clear and deep close to shore, which is characteristic of the narrow central lake. Swimming is good from May through September. The cliffs rising directly from the lake to the north of the village create a dramatic backdrop.

Cycling

The western shore cycleway (Ciclovia del Garda) passes through Limone as part of a route that will eventually circle the entire lake. The section between Riva del Garda and Limone, completed in recent years, runs on a dedicated path largely separated from the main road. The ride from Riva to Limone takes approximately 45 minutes and is broadly flat along the waterside, making it accessible to casual cyclists.

Beyond Limone southward, the road becomes the SS45bis Gardesana Occidentale, which passes through several tunnels and has narrow sections. This stretch is not ideal for cycling without road experience. Bike hire is available in Riva del Garda (see the Riva del Garda guide) and in Limone from several operators near the ferry landing.

Eating in Limone

Ristorante Gemma (Via IV Novembre 32) - a long-established restaurant in the historic centre with lake fish, lake trout carpaccio, and regional Lombard dishes. Mains approximately €16–24 as of 2026. The terrace seats on the narrow lane are atmospheric.

Trattoria La Baia (Via del Porto 23) - casual lakefront dining near the ferry landing. Pasta and grilled fish, mains approximately €12–18. Better for lunch than dinner.

Limone’s lemon products: The village has a small industry in lemon-based products - limoncello, lemon liqueur, lemon cosmetics, and lemon preserves are sold in shops along the main street. The quality varies; the better products are made locally rather than being generic souvenirs.

Getting There

By ferry: The most pleasant approach is by water. Ferries from Riva del Garda take approximately 15 minutes. From Malcesine (fast ferry, approximately 15 minutes). From Desenzano (slow ferry, approximately 2.5 hours with stops). Ferry day passes allow unlimited hop-on travel - see the ferry guide.

By car: The Gardesana Occidentale road runs along the western shore. From Riva del Garda (approximately 20 minutes), the road passes through the Tunnel del Fenile and a series of other tunnels cut into the cliff. The road is narrow in places and single-lane in some tunnel sections. Summer traffic can be heavy. Limited parking in the village itself; there are larger car parks at the northern edge of town.

By bus: Brescia to Limone takes approximately 1.5 hours with a change. Riva del Garda to Limone by bus takes approximately 30 minutes. Services are less frequent than on the eastern shore.

Where to Stay

Hotel Capo Reamol (Via IV Novembre 92) - a four-star on the lake north of the village with its own beach, indoor and outdoor pools. Doubles from approximately €140/night as of 2026. Good for those who want a resort hotel rather than a village location.

Hotel Sole (Via Lungolago 15) - a three-star in the centre of the village with lake views. Doubles from approximately €95/night. Small pool and direct access to the lake.

Il Sogno (Via Soprariva 1) - a small family-run guesthouse in the old town. Rooms from approximately €70/night. Simple but in an excellent position, with views from the terrace.

For the complete accommodation picture across the lake, see best hotels on Lake Garda.

Limone sul Garda: Lemon Terraces and Western Shore Village

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