First visit to Lake Garda. The 30-40 minute stroll into the centre of Garda was not an issue, indeed the location was preferable to being 'on the main strip' and most of it was through the lakeside gardens.
Took return boat trip to Desenzano (slow boat down and fast boat back) which was the best way to see the lakeside towns. To Malcezine cableway by bus - details (and discount voucher) from central tourist office in Riva.
Although we are 'active retired' and Riva is an important cycling, mountain-biking and water sports centre, we certainly did not feel we were in the wrong place. There are things for everyone to enjoy in Riva and without the steep backdrop of the other lakeside towns, it felt open and spacious. Finally......like the other lakeside towns and villages, Riva is so refreshingly clean (in comparison to many UK resorts), there is a complete absence of litter.