The ‘ Valtenesi ‘ is an area located between Lake Garda and the moraine hills in the province of Brescia. This area includes various coastal communities, such as Padenghe sul Garda, Moniga , Manerba del Garda and San Felice del Benaco , as well as communities in the interior as Puegnago del Garda, Polpenazze del Garda and Soiano .
The area between the Brescia shore of the lake and the Sabbia Valley offers a very interesting and varied environment: starting from the shores of Lake Garda, where nature, cultivation and mild climate offer unforgettable Mediterranean images and the hills beyond, with the olive groves and vineyards, leading us to reflect on the beauty of this area.
During spring we have a wide variety of wild flowers blooming, such as primroses, iris, violets and lilies. In summer various species of wild orchids bloom. Thanks to the existing nature reserves the fauna offers a variety of wild animals, on land; rabbits and small mammals, waterfowl and birds of prey, in the water a variety of fish: pike, carp, perch, trout, whitefish and eel.
There are traces of prehistoric lake dwellings, which had been occupied by Athenian refugees, who – as the legend tells – out of tradition and nostalgia gave its name ‘Vallis Anthienesis’ to the area.
Valtenesi is a region which is characterized by a unique micro- climate, influenced by Italy’s largest lake. Besides the beauty of the lakes and landscape, as well as the many tourist attractions, it is famous for the production of wine and above all excellent olive oil, even if the climate is suitable for the cultivation of typically Mediterranean citrus fruits , agave and capers.
