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Each summer, windsurfers from across Europe descend on Garda’s wind-pounded northern shores – especially in Riva and Torbole – for some of the best lake surfing on the continent. Surf hire shops can be found in Riva, Torbole and Sirmione.

While this isn’t the tropics, the waters are clearer than you might expect. Subterranean surprises include an underwater Jesus near Riva. Equipment is available in various outlets.

Whether you want to explore the flatlands to the south, tackle mountains rising sheer from the north shores, or simply wend along the lake itself, hire a bike to see Garda at a leisurely pace.

For adventure sports such as climbing and canyoning, head to Arco, just north of Riva, for the Guide Alpine or Multi Sport Centre, which can also hook you up with a paragliding run, as can Paragliding Club in Malcesine.

The golf at Garda isn’t great, but if you want to break out the nine-iron, there are several courses on the southwest shore and one on the east shore.

One of the best clubs in Italy, Fura is a visual experience – a screen surrounds the dance floor, so you can watch yourself dance.

This disco overlooks the harbour from giant picture windows.

A happy blend of retro disco and ballroom dance hall.

This disco spins house and 70s–80s pop and funk in a refined, Mediterranean-style club two miles off the autostrada. Once a month there’s a theme party night.

Popular nightclub with laser lights pouring over a pounding dance floor shaking to house music, pop and Europop.