Lake Garda is one of Italy’s most beautiful destinations, known for its sparkling water, historic towns, and relaxed lifestyle. But until recently, it was not an easy place for vegan travelers to find truly vegan accommodation and dining. That is now changing.
In this episode of The World Vegan Travel Podcast, we speak with Valentina Mori, architect and hotel owner, about creating Il Mansio Vegan Suites & Restaurant, a fully vegan boutique hotel in Rivoltella del Garda, near Desenzano and Sirmione. This is a story about vision, care, and building a new kind of hospitality experience on Lake Garda.
Meet Valentina Mori and Il Mansio Vegan Suites & Restaurant
Valentina is an architect by training and previously worked in marketing. About four years ago, together with her family, she decided to create something completely new for her hometown of Rivoltella del Garda.
The result is Il Mansio Vegan Suites & Restaurant, a luxury boutique hotel that is 100% vegan — not only in its food, but in every detail, from materials and furnishings to amenities and cleaning products. Valentina shares that the goal was to give the town a new reference point for high-level hospitality, while staying warm, personal, and authentic.
What Makes Il Mansio a Truly Vegan Hotel
Il Mansio goes far beyond offering vegan meals. During our conversation, Valentina explains that every choice was made with vegan values in mind.
This includes:
- Vegan-certified materials used throughout the building
- Cruelty-free and vegan bathroom amenities
- Vegan massage oils and spa products
- In-house laundry using vegan-certified detergents
The hotel has just six rooms, creating a quiet, home-like atmosphere where guests are encouraged to slow down and relax. Some rooms include private terraces with jacuzzis, and each room is designed differently, so every stay feels special.
Dining at Il Mansio: Refined and Approachable Vegan Food
Food is a central part of the Il Mansio experience. Valentina explains that the kitchen team focuses on creating dishes that are enjoyable for everyone — vegans and non-vegans alike.
Guests can expect:
- A plated breakfast (no buffet, to reduce food waste)
- A refined dinner menu with à la carte and tasting menu options
- A simpler all-day menu on weekdays, similar to a vegan bistro
The philosophy is simple: sophisticated techniques, bold and clear flavors, and beautiful presentation without being intimidating.
👉You can explore the restaurant here.
Vegan-Friendly Restaurants Around Lake Garda
While vegan options around Lake Garda are still limited, Valentina shares a few places she personally recommends:
- Santa Pizza (Desenzano) – A casual spot right on the lake with vegan pizzas and plant-based dishes.
- Mos Ristorante (Desenzano) – A fine-dining restaurant offering a fully plant-based tasting menu, even though it is not exclusively vegan.
- Il Mansio Vegan Restaurant – A destination in itself for refined vegan dining.
Things to Do in Lake Garda: Valentina’s Local Tips
One of the highlights of this episode is hearing Valentina describe the places she loves around Lake Garda. These are not rushed sightseeing stops, but places to slow down and truly enjoy.
Desenzano del Garda
Desenzano is a lively and authentic town, perfect for walking and people-watching.
Recommended spots include:
- Villa Romana di Desenzano – Roman ruins with lake views
- Faro di Desenzano – A peaceful lighthouse area
- Porto Vecchio (Old Port) – Colorful boats and historic buildings
- Castello di Desenzano – For sunset views over the lake
A must-do walk is the Lungolago, the lakeside path connecting Rivoltella and Desenzano. It is car-free and changes beautifully throughout the day.
Sirmione
Sirmione is one of the most famous towns on Lake Garda, best visited in spring when it is less crowded.
Highlights include:
- Castello Scaligero – A medieval castle surrounded by water
- Grotte di Catullo – Ancient Roman ruins with panoramic views
- Jamaica Beach – Clear water and white stone formations
- Terme di Sirmione (Acquaria) – Thermal spa overlooking the lake
Day Trips and Experiences
If you have more time, Valentina also recommends:
- Isola del Garda – A historic island and gardens
- Cantina Bulgarini (Pozzolengo) – A local winery near the lake
Shopping in Sirmione
For a special shopping experience, Valentina suggests visiting Damapreziosa in Sirmione, a small boutique offering unique pieces and gifts.
A Vegan Ally Story Worth Sharing
One of the most powerful moments in this conversation is Valentina’s honesty. She shares that she and her family are not vegan themselves, but strongly believe in vegan values such as sustainability, respect for nature, and conscious living.
Seeing the growth of vegan travel and realizing there was no high-level vegan offering on Lake Garda, they decided to act. Il Mansio is proof that meaningful change can come from allies who are willing to listen, learn, and invest in a better future.
Plan Your Vegan Lake Garda Trip
If you are dreaming of visiting Lake Garda and want a place that truly understands vegan travelers, Il Mansio Vegan Suites & Restaurant is a beautiful place to start.
🎧 Don’t forget to listen to the full podcast episode to hear Valentina’s story in her own words and get inspired for your next vegan-friendly Italian adventure.
Learn More About What is Discussed on the Podcast
- How Valentina and her family created a 100% vegan boutique hotel on Lake Garda
- What makes Il Mansio truly vegan — beyond just the food
- What guests can expect from the rooms, spa, and private wellness spaces
- A look at the vegan dining experience at Il Mansio, including breakfast and dinner
- Valentina’s local tips for exploring Lake Garda, Desenzano, and Sirmione
- Recommended vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants in the area
- The best places to walk, relax, and enjoy the lake
- Why spring is the ideal time to visit Lake Garda
- Valentina’s perspective as a vegan ally creating change through hospitality
Other World Vegan Travel Content Connected With This Episode
- Reflections on our Incredible Northern Italy Vegan Tour | Northern Italy 2022 Travelers | Ep 80
- S3 Ep 5 | Best Vegan-Friendly Hotels in Italy | Verde Camilla Parmigiani
- Vegan Italy Hotel | Paradiso Pure Living in the Dolomites
- Tuscan Vegan Food Tour | Plant-Based Cuisine in Italy
- Destination Spotlight: The Awe-Inspiring Wonders of Central Puglia, Italy | Amber McLean | Ep 134
