A few weeks ago our writer Scott Balaam attended the #InLombardia blog trip in partnership with iambassador and Explora Tourism. Lombardy is a beautiful, diverse and affluent northern region of Italy. Here is photographic journey through the region in BIG Pictures…
Nestled in the affluent North, Lombardy is Italy’s richest region which seems to have a much closer affinity with its northern European neighbours than with the rest of the country. Ruled for almost two centuries by the French and Austrians, it’s named after northern Lombards who ousted the Romans before them. Its strategic position on the border means the region has always had to protect itself from invasion but it means it’s also profited in wealth by being a commercial crossroads. The region has been the site of many battles over the years which means Lombardy has inherited an impressive of well preserved historic landmarks. An incredibly beautiful and diverse region, it encompasses a story book pretty Alpine region, lush valley lowlands, a breathtaking mountain chain, a vast expanse of rolling hills, pretty vineyards and the charm of the much-loved great lakes (Garda, Como and Maggiore) which are flanked by historic castles, stately homes and picturesque small towns.
The first stop on our trip was Lonato del Garda c/o Fondazione Ugo da Como and the Rocca Viscounteo Veneta, a delightful place with narrow cobbled streets and lovely panoramic views. When we got to the main castle it was in a wonderful setting overlooking water – somewhere that would be perfect for weddings. As we headed away from the castle we visited the the museum which is home of the world’s smallest book as well as many other antiques.
In the evening we went to Salo, another beautiful and relaxing location with gorgeous sunsets. There was an balance of boats moored ahead of the evening, the birds chirping and even some people rowing on the lake. Then we visited Desenzano del Garda where we toured the historical centre (the views from the town castle were simply stunning), stopped for lunch at Selva Capuzza, which had its own vineyard and then explored dreamy Sirmione and it gorgeous historical architecture and impressive spas.
On the last day we took a trip to the city of Brescia, a true hidden gem of a place full of immaculate historic architecture, culture, history, some excellent restaurants and cafe-lined squares, oh and two cathedrals – an old one and a new one which sit right next to each other. The squares make ideal places to sit back enjoy a coffee or a glass of white wine and soak up the lovely atmosphere and the city itself makes a beautiful under-the-radar travel destination.
All words and images by regular contributor Scott Balaam. This post was brought to you as a result of the #inLombardia365 project, which was created and managed by iambassador in partnership with Explora Tourism. Global Grasshopper maintains full editorial control of the content published on this site.
25 Comments
Akanksha
26 July, 2018 at 2:35 pmWow, Italy is love. Love be there. I spent almost 5 months there and still missing. Its lovely place. Thank you for all the memories.
Rahul
16 July, 2018 at 12:23 pmSuch an Amazing place and pictures. Lovely italy. Will surely visit it soon.
olivier
28 May, 2017 at 5:35 amAmazing place and pictures- I’m expat and work in this country but never visit yet ! Thanks
Swathi
26 May, 2017 at 7:12 amWow! Every part of this place is just breathtaking, the views look like a beautiful dream, thanks for sharing 🙂
John
9 May, 2017 at 7:00 amWow this looks pretty incredible. Loved this amazing pics.
Agness of eTramping
22 April, 2017 at 8:34 pmWhat a picturesque place, Scott! I have to add it to my bucket list!
Marc
31 December, 2016 at 11:35 pmScott, These are some awesome pictures and I have never been to Lombardi region. You gave me an idea to explore it. I would love to stroll on that sidewalk along the water. Great job. Bravo!
Lorraine
29 June, 2016 at 6:53 pmWow – what a beautiful place to explore!
Scott Balaam
7 July, 2016 at 12:10 amIt was incredible … I loved it
Rav M
22 June, 2016 at 9:37 pmWhat a cool looking region, you did well on the photos Scott nice work!
Scott Balaam
7 July, 2016 at 12:11 amThanks so much – I was so impressed. I knew Lake Garda was going to be special but I was worried about the rain on one of the days but it was still beautiful even when it was cloudy and wet!!!
Suzie Moore
22 June, 2016 at 9:11 pmLooks like paradise – seriously!
Scott Balaam
7 July, 2016 at 12:12 amI will be going back that’s for sure!!!
Claude P
22 June, 2016 at 9:07 pmLooks absolutely stunning, so jealous 😉
Scott Balaam
7 July, 2016 at 12:14 amIf you haven’t been before … make sure you add it to your list!
Gary N
22 June, 2016 at 8:24 pmGreat set of photos Scott you should be proud, you’re definitely selling the region 😉
Scott Balaam
7 July, 2016 at 12:15 amThanks Gary – that’s really appreciated.
I hadn’t really been to the region before and it really turned my head.
I will be sure to go back and see more.
Emma B
22 June, 2016 at 8:04 pmReally dreamy photos of this region, I especially love the first one!
Scott Balaam
7 July, 2016 at 12:16 amThanks – it was the first night.
We turned the corner and got out of the bus and I couldn’t believe my luck with the view and then the sunset.
Misha
16 June, 2016 at 5:23 pmThese pictures are just stunning. I will be heading for Europe this year and i can’t wait to experience this tour!
Scott Balaam
7 July, 2016 at 12:17 amGreat stuff Misha – it’s a really special region. With loads to see and do!
Jun
15 June, 2016 at 4:29 amWhat a beautiful set of photos, you did well!
Scott Balaam
7 July, 2016 at 12:17 amThanks a million …. it was a pleasure
Marc
14 June, 2016 at 7:36 pmPictures are absolutely beautiful.
Scott Balaam
7 July, 2016 at 12:18 amThanks Marc – that’s really appreciated. Such a special place makes it easier to capture!