The Italian Lakes encompasses some of Italy’s most stunning countryside, centered on its three best known lakes. The largest is Lake Garda, about halfway between Milan and Venice, whose finest resorts are located in the chic little spa town of Sirmione. Lake Como, the closest to Milan, is perhaps the most famous of all and is bordered by delightfully picturesque towns including Como itself, with its elegant fusion of gothic and renaissance architecture. Nearby Lake Maggiore’s close proximity to the mountains ensures pleasant temperatures even in the summer heat and its most popular destination is the graceful town of Stresa.