This unique island on Lake Garda belongs to the Cavazza family and has often changed its name over the centuries: Isola dei Frati, Insula Cranie, Isola Scotti, Isola Lechi, Isola De Ferrari and Isola Borghese are the names that referred to the place in the past.
Garda Island has ancient origins with first allocations during Roman times. The first documentation dates back to the year 879 when a decree of Carlomanno established the donation of the island to the friars of San Zeno.
Villa Borghese-Cavazza is the heart of this island on Lake Garda. Built in the early 1900s according to the project of Luigi Rovelli, the villa is characterized by a refined Venetian neo-Gothic style and numerous details that determine elegance and grandeur including arched windows and a crenelated tower with floral decorations. The interiors of Villa Borghese-Cavazza are as majestic as the exteriors characterized by Italian gardens and a large and lush vegetation of local and exotic plants.
The Island of Garda is located on the west side of the lake close to San Felice del Benaco. The owners still live on the island and this is the reason why it can be visited only with an authorized guide prior reservation. It is possible to reach the place only by motorboat leaving from the harbour of Gardone Riviera in front of the Hotel Savoy Palace.
Guided tours take place with a person authorized by the Cavazza family, from April to October, except on Monday and Saturday. Each reservation includes a visit of approximately two hours and a welcome drink. Gardone Riviera is very close to the Island of Garda: if you stay in Villa Sofia you can take advantage of the short distance in order to reach the island quickly and easily.
