Desenzano is a smallish town on the southern shore of Lake Garda in the north of Italy, with a population of around 25,000. It's known as Desenzano del Garda (or occasionally 'sul Garda') to describe its location on the lake. The town is in the region of Lombardy and makes a convenient base for travellers using public transport, as it is on Italy's rail network. Desenzano is close to (and in the province of) the larger town of Brescia. The most convenient airport for the area is Verona.This southern end of Lake Garda is broad, fairly flat and not nearly as dramatic as the mountainous northern part. However, on a clear day there are still some good views.Desenzano del Garda has some pleasant winding historic streets between the town's castle on its hill, and the lakeshore below. A busy road runs along the edge of the lake, and on the inland side is a small peaceful harbour, where little boats are moored and swans glide about in front of several comfortable cafe-bars. A larger marina is situated along the shore, protected by an imposing harbour wall.