Scotland Captured Goes Abroad: A Seven-Night Italian Journey
For a week in May, Scotland Captured swapped the misty hills and rugged coastlines of home for something a little sunnier — the stunning landscapes of northern Italy. My wife and I set off on a long-awaited trip 9to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary) to explore the shimmering shores of Lake Garda, staying in the charming town of Bardolino, visiitng Sirmione, Lazise, and Garda, and even managed a magical day trip to the iconic city of Venice.
Capturing the Magic of Lake Garda
Lake Garda delivered everything we could have hoped for — clear waters, dramatic backdrops, and towns rich in character. Each place had its own unique feel:
Bardolino welcomed us with vineyards and lakeside promenades bathed in golden evening light.
Simmonie offered postcard views and quiet corners perfect for early morning photography.
Garda, with its historic old town and relaxed vibe, quickly became one of our favourite spots to wind down after a long day behind the lens.
Everywhere we went, the light played beautifully on the landscape, creating endless photographic opportunities — whether it was sunrise over the lake, golden hour in the vineyards, or the deep blues and silvers of twilight.
A Venetian Daydream
Our day trip to Venice was like stepping into a living painting. The reflections off the canals, the weathered textures of the buildings, and the bustling life of the narrow streets — it was overwhelming in the best way. It’s hard to take a bad photo in Venice, but it’s even harder to capture just how enchanting the atmosphere truly is.
Weathering It All
Italy was kind to us, weather-wise. Most days were sunny and warm — perfect for long walks, exploring new towns, and catching those fleeting moments of light with the camera. On the occasional rainy day, we tucked ourselves into cozy cafes or simply watched the world go by from under a sheltered balcony. And when the heat rose a little too high, we cooled down by the lake, taking a moment to appreciate the slower pace.
Good Food, Great Wine, Better Company
One of the real joys of the trip was the evenings. After a day of exploring with my camera, we enjoyed lovely meals out, sampling the rich flavours of Italian cuisine — fresh seafood, handmade pastas, and plenty of local delicacies. We also managed to squeeze in some wine tasting, which turned out to be both educational and delicious. Sitting under the stars with a glass of wine in hand, it was hard not to feel incredibly grateful for the experience.
Looking Ahead
Though it was a shift from my usual Scottish landscapes, Italy reminded me that beauty is everywhere — in the light, in the stillness, in the everyday. I’ll be sharing a selection of the best shots from the trip over the coming weeks, so keep an eye on the gallery. And who knows — maybe Scotland Captured will go abroad again soon.
Until then, ciao from Lake Garda — and back to the misty lochs and glens I call home.