While most people make for the better known Italian lakes, Iseo remains blissfully peaceful despite its beauty. The smallest of Lombardy’s four major lakes, it is lined with vineyards, olive groves and pretty fishing villages. A handy public boat service makes it easy to zip between them, and out to Monte Isola, said to be Europe’s largest inhabited lake island.
There’s lovely walking, of all levels – whether you want to promenade along the shore past elegant villas, hike through bird-filled wetland reserves or strike out on trails that follow ancient trading routes. Toast your trip in Iseo’s Franciacorta region, which produces the eponymous sparkling wine, Italy’s answer to champagne.