Gagà Laboratorio’s Mo Coppoletta’s Guide to the Perfect Day on Lake Garda
The inventive watchmaker’s creative leader rolls out his recommendations for exploring the so-called “Olive Tree Riviera” like an in-the-know local, with a leisurely, waterborne itinerary that offers attractions the average turista might miss.
By Watchonista
The universal appeal of Northern Italy’s idyllic Lake District is unarguable. Even if you don’t factor in that it served as a filming location for Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones (embodying, as it does, the regal paradise of Planet Naboo) or that an Academy-award winning actor whose last name rhymes with “Blooney” is a part-year resident, the region is still gorgeous, historical, and luxurious, attracting the elite, from notable figures to celebrities, for centuries.
While Lake Como tends to get more attention and renown, innovative watchmaker Gagà Laboratorio’s co-founder and artistic director Mo Coppoletta calls the larger and more easterly Lake Garda his preferred stomping grounds.
We asked him to detail his “perfect day” on the lake for us. And it is easy to see how soaking in the wonders of Lake Garda, even for just a day, can provide ample inspiration to recharge and renew the sense of beauty and creativity Coppoletta applies to the artful watchmaker’s creations.
Water World
Coppoletta likes to start a perfect lake day by heading to Bardolino Yachting, a full-service lake marina that also happens to be the original Riva shipyard, crafter of fantastically desirable wooden watercraft since 1842 (and now, with multiple Italian shipyards, Riva builds stylish modern motor yachts and super yachts, as well).
“I head out and find a beautiful spot for mooring and a swim,” Mo explains. “Isola del Garda (the lake’s largest island) is an idyllic location, and its wonderful Villa Borghese Cavazza estate is a sight to behold. Mooring right in front of Villa Canossa is another great suggestion, especially for its quiet, beautiful waters.”
Mangia!
In Italy, the midday meal is more akin to meaningful art than required sustenance, so Coppoletta recommends a place that carries particular gravitas in his life: “My favorite lunch spot in the world is Punta di San Vigilio. I have visited here regularly throughout my whole life. It is a magical place visited by many illustrious historical figures throughout the decades.
“It also happens to be the place where Gagà Milano’s Ruben Tomella and I had the first meetings conceiving Gagà Laboratorio, and it continues to be the place we go back to either explore new projects or celebrate milestones.”
Back to the Boat
After a leisurely, delicious repast, a second round on the water for more swimming and a cruise down to the town of Salò seems like a perfect next stop for the day, where Coppoletta recommends you take a moment to have an aperitivo (or two) at the classic Bar Italia 1920 (which features unique direct-to-vessel service).
Located right along the town’s expansive waterfront, Bar Italia 1920 is also a traditional stop during June’s famous Mille Miglia annual classic car rally event (but an end-of-summer visit will be less crowded). If you linger long enough to develop an appetite, the venue’s frutti di mare-focused menu offers succulent options to delight the palate.
Off-Beat Culture & History
Finally, “Captain” Coppoletta suggests a visit to the Western shore’s Villa Fiordaliso next. “It’s a very special place where we shot a Gagà Laboratorio promotional film with singer/musician Alessandro Ristori,” he adds.
Add on a visit to his favorite “house” museum in the world, the nearby Il Vittoriale Degli Italiani, an estate built between 1921 and 1938 by architect Gian Carlo Maroni for the eccentric Italian poet Gabriele D’Annunzio for a decidedly eclectic (some might even say, “bizarre”) experience.
You will still have time to head back to Punta di San Vigilio for a “sundowner” aperitivo with friends. Abbondanza, indeed.
(Front image © Mo Coppoletta)