Beyond the Valtenesi area is the Colline Moreniche Mantovane (the Morainic Hills of Mantua). The name is actually not correct because the towns in this area only recently created a consortium for the protection of the natural surroundings. On one side is the Po Valley, while on the other side is Lake Garda, which is the beach for the locals. Sirmione, a blend of history and poetry, stretches out into the lake. The hills beyond Desenzano lead to Lonato, Castiglione delle Stiviere and Solferino. Amidst rows of grapevines that extend as far as the eye can see, the deafening blasts of the S. Martino and Solferino Battle can almost be heard.

Although it only lasted a few hours, the battle was so violent that it gave rise to the Red Cross organization. These historical vineyards witnessed the bold march of the Italian and French armies and the slow retreat of the Austrian Imperial army. The strategy of the Italian Risorgimento was defined in these isolated vineyards. Recent history has muted this episode and prefers to mention these places for other more pleasant reasons.
This area is home to three great wines of Garda: "S. Martino" and "Lugana" vie for the production area of the hills on which the bloody battle took place, while "Bianco di Custoza" has taken possession of the hills beyond the Mincio River. The area is easily accessed from State Road 11 Desenzano-Peschiera or from the A4 highway, Sirmione exit.

The beauty of this area catches the eye of even the most absent-minded visitor. Today, there is a farmhouse or tavern on practically every curve on the road, and the locals are extremely friendly. People armed with patience can discover on every corner one of the many "licenzini", refreshment areas managed by farmers who sell their products. Barbecued chicken, juicy grilled steaks, rabbit with polenta and home-made pickled vegetables await vacationers or weekend tourists. In the winter you can sit near a stone fire, sipping cinnamon spiced hot wine.

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