After the down pours of rain in the past few weeks, much of the country resembled a giant lake! However I am thankful to say that the rain has temporarily moved on and we now have glorious sunshine again. It made me think of the Italian lakes this morning, presumably there is little to tell the difference right now between our own azure countryside, shimmering waters and presumably a few ducks paddling where once was civilisation (ok we have not become Atlantis just yet) and the charming Italian Alps - looking down across Lakes Como and Garda. This beautiful lakes have fascinated for centuries - even Winston Churchill has a suite named after him at one of the lake side hotels as he used to visit frequently. The Lakes are great for general recreation, but water sports in particular at Riva on Lake Garda are renowned. Quality Villas have offered villas in Lake Garda and villas in lake Como for several years - part of their extensive Italian villa programme. If you might be interested in staying in this stunning region, taking a little Alpine air and possibly even a dip in the lake (yes it has its own 'beaches'!) then a visit is muchy recommended. Why not add on a few nights of Opera in Verona for good measure? The city is under an hour away and frequently used for its airport as an entry to the region.