Top of the World
Malcesine is the most characteristic of the towns on Lake Garda, different from all the rest, with its rocky spur that, overbearingly, emerges from the waters, topped by the soaring Castle that stands guard over the historic center below, of medieval origin, with its characteristic cobbled alleys and small squares, gates and faces, tiny and colorful stores, pubs, ateliers, restaurants, taverns, old houses leaning against each other, stone walls, courtyards and vegetable gardens, picturesque views, and lively atmospheres crowded with tourists. The scenery is dreamlike, the panorama is among the most fascinating. The village lies between the iridescent waters of Lake Garda, which range from the white of the frothy waves to the deep blue, from blue to silver and the bright, warm gold of summer sunsets, and Mount Baldo, which rises majestic and wild, wild and rocky to over 2000 meters in the highest peaks.
The climate is mild, in fact it is affected by the beneficial influence of the lake, and so in winter temperatures seldom drop below freezing, so that lush Mediterranean flora of olive, citrus, palm, holm oak, oleander, and bougainvillea thrives, while in summer a pleasant breeze and a temperature that is neither too high nor sultry makes for a pleasant and stimulating stay.
