The best of Europe's lakes
It's easy to forget how something so simple as a lake can bring a very real sense of calm and beauty. Not that serenity is all you'll get - there are loads of ways to enjoy the lake a bit more proactively by trying out things like water skiing and wakeboarding. Here we've put together a variety of lake holidays for you to check out.
Italy
Italy needs little introduction - the home of pizza and pasta as well as acres of world class wines. The lakes have a tonne of activities to get stuck into and the towns are lined with restaurants and bars too - sample a different place every day.
Slovenia
Slovenia's biggest selling point is its beauty - it is the very definition of picturesque. Lake Bled is surrounded by pine forests and the backdrop is the Julian Alps. The atmosphere is a laid back one but there's still plenty of activities there if you want them.
Austria
Two bustling resorts here - Zell am See's centre is pedestrianised and has a good selection of cafes and shops. On the lake you can get up to things like swimming, rowing and cruises among other things. Velden has a fashionable crowd and a strong nightlife - there's great views over the lake and sailing, swimming and windsurfing available for the more energetic.
Switzerland
Check out the Lugano lake from the very top of Monte San Salvatore - it's a fantastic view. Down at lake level the city has a traffic-free centre with arcades, galleries and cafes - great for just wandering around and taking in Lugano. A promenade goes around the lakeside and an excellent network of transport (boats, buses, trains and cableways) means you can get around the region really easily.