Surrounded by majestic mountains and flourish woods, the region offers a variety of hiking trails to suit all levels of experience. From the rugged peaks of Monte Baldo to the charming villages of the Valpolicella, tons of hiking trails are waiting for an adventurer.
In this article we will explore different routes, organized by type, from lakeside walks to family friendly hikes, without forgetting mountain and off-the-beaten path.
Stay with us for this complete guide to hiking trails and route in Lake Garda. No matter what your hiking style, lace up your boots and get ready to explore this stunning region on foot.
Top Hiking Tours
Relax on a classic Lakefront Walk
Lake Garda offers a variety of scenic lakeside walks that are perfect for enjoying the beauty of the region. From Sentiero del Ponale to Busatte-Tempesta. If you’re looking for a longer walk, you can follow the lakeside cycle path that runs around the entire lake. This path is suitable for both cyclists and walkers, and offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding countryside.
Sentiero del Ponale
The Sentiero del Ponale, or Ponale Trail, is a must-do hike for anyone visiting Lake Garda. This iconic trail winds along the cliffs above the western shore of the lake, offering amazing panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the crystal-clear waters below.
The trail starts near the town of Riva del Garda and follows the old Roman road that once connected the lake to the Trentino region. As you hike along the trail, you’ll pass through tunnels, over bridges, and through lush forests. The views are simply stunning, with the lake stretching out below you as far as the eye can see.
One of the highlights of the Sentiero del Ponale is the iconic Belvedere di Ponale viewpoint. This lookout point offers panoramic views of the lake, the mountains, and the nearby town of Limone sul Garda. It’s the perfect spot to stop and take in the breathtaking scenery.
Sentiero della Ponale is around 6 miles
Busatte-Tempesta path
As you ascend to the top of Busatte, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the lake, the surrounding mountains, and the charming town of Torbole. Once you reach the top, you can embark on a variety of hiking trails. The most popular trail is the Sentiero Busatte-Tempesta, a scenic path that winds through lush forests and offers stunning views of the lake.
This trail is suitable for all levels of hikers and can be completed in about 1-2 hours. For a more challenging hike, you can continue on to Monte Baldo, one of the highest peaks in the region. The hike to the summit is strenuous, but the panoramic views are well worth the effort.
If you’re looking for a more leisurely activity, you can simply enjoy the breathtaking views from the top of Busatte-Tempesta. There’s a restaurant and a bar where you can relax and soak up the scenery. Taking the Busatte-Tempesta cable car is a must-do for any visitor to Lake Garda. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of the region from a unique perspective.
Busatte-Tempesta path is around 7 miles
Sentiero del Sole (Path of the Sun)
The Sentiero del Sole (Path of the Sun) is a scenic trail that winds along the western shore of Lake Garda. As you follow the Sentiero del Sole, you’ll be treated to a delightful mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
The trail passes through olive groves, vineyards, and historical sites, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich history and traditions. One of the highlights of the Sentiero del Sole is the opportunity to visit the charming village of Limone sul Garda.
This little town is known for its lemon groves and stunning views of the lake. Be sure to stop and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets and feel the local vibes. The Sentiero del Sole is suitable for hikers of all levels, with gentle slopes and easy terrain. The trail is well-marked and offers plenty of opportunities to stop and rest or enjoy a picnic.
Sentiero del Sole is around 5 miles
Get packed for some Mountain Adventure
One of the most iconic peaks in the region is Monte Baldo. There are several hiking trails up Monte Baldo, ranging from easy to challenging, catering to all fitness levels. For a more adventurous challenge, Rocca di Manerba is a must-visit. This ancient fortress is perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the lake. If, instead, you’re looking for a more moderate hike with stunning views, Monte Luppia is a great option.
Rocca di Manerba
Nestled on a rocky promontory overlooking Lake Garda, Rocca di Manerba is a captivating historical site that offers stunning panoramic views and a glimpse into the region’s past. This ancient fortress, dating back to the 4th century BC, stands as a testament to the strategic importance of its location.
The fortress itself is a fascinating exploration, with its preserved walls, towers, and archaeological remains. To reach the Rocca di Manerba, you can hike up from the lakeside town of Manerba del Garda.
The hike is moderate in difficulty and takes about 30 minutes. Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. There’s also a small museum on site that provides information about the history of the fortress.
Rocca di Manerba trail is around 30 minutes walk distance
Monte Baldo
One of the most popular trails on Monte Baldo is the Sentiero della Forra, a scenic path that winds through lush forests and offers stunning views of the lake. This trail is suitable for hikers of all levels, and it can be combined with other trails to create a longer adventure.
Another popular trail is the Sentiero della Malcesine, which takes you to the summit of Monte Baldo via a series of switchbacks. This trail offers challenging climbs but is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
In addition to hiking, Monte Baldo also offers other activities, such as mountain biking, paragliding, and horseback riding. So, even you’re a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a scenic day out, Monte Baldo has your back.
Monte Baldo trail is around 3 (short) or 6 (full hike) miles
Monte Luppia
This moderately challenging trail rewards hikers with panoramic views of the charming Valpolicella wine region. The trailhead for Monte Luppia is typically located in the town of San Zeno di Montagna. As you climb higher, the views of the lake and the surrounding countryside become increasingly spectacular.
The summit of Monte Luppia offers panoramic vistas that are truly unforgettable. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Dolomites and the Venetian Alps. The peak is also a popular spot for paragliding, so you may witness these daring adventurers soaring through the sky.
After reaching the summit, you can choose to descend back down the same trail or explore the surrounding area. There are several other hiking trails in the region that offer stunning views and unique experiences.
Monte Luppia trail is around 4 miles
Challenge yourself on an Off-the-Beaten-Path
The region also offers numerous off-the-beaten-path hiking trails that provide a more secluded and authentic experience. These hidden gems are perfect for those seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and a chance to escape the crowds.
Sentiero del Monte San Giorgio
Monte San Giorgio, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a unique and rewarding hiking experience. This mountain, is a bit far from Lake Garda, since it’s located on the border between Italy and Switzerland, but it’s totally worth to visit. The trail is renowned for its rich fossil finds.
While hiking through the scenic trails, you’ll have the chance to explore ancient marine environments and discover fascinating fossils. The hike up Monte San Giorgio is moderate. As you ascend, you’ll pass through diverse ecosystems, including forests, meadows, and rocky outcrops.
Keep your eyes peeled for fossils embedded in the rocks, as you may stumble upon a hidden treasure. Once you reach the peak. you can visit the Museum of Natural History in Meride, Switzerland, which houses a vast collection of fossils found on Monte San Giorgio.
Monte San GIorgio trail is around 1 hour walking distance
Sentiero del Monte Corno
Monte Corno, a majestic mountain overlooking Lake Garda, offers a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience. The hike begins at the small village of Navene, where you’ll find a well-marked trail leading up the mountain.
The initial climb is steep, but the effort is rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. As you ascend, you’ll pass through the forests, encounter babbling brooks, and marvel at the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
The summit of Monte Corno offers panoramic views of Lake Garda, the surrounding mountains, and the Vallagarina valley. The descent from Monte Corno offers a different perspective on the surrounding landscape. You’ll pass along the banks of the Rio Corno stream.
Monte Corno is around 4 miles
Have fun with Family-Friendly Trails
Lake Garda offers a variety of family-friendly hiking trails that are perfect for exploring the region with your loved ones. These trails are designed to be accessible for all ages and abilities, while still providing stunning views and opportunities for adventure.
Sentiero della Val di Toscolano
The Sentiero della Val di Toscolano, or the Trail of the Toscolano Valley, is a scenic and easy-going hike that offers stunning views of Lake Garda and the surrounding countryside. This trail is perfect for those who want to enjoy a leisurely walk in nature without tackling a strenuous climb.
As you follow the Sentiero della Val di Toscolano, you’ll be surrounded by olive groves, vineyards, and charming villages. The trail offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, making it ideal for families and those seeking a leisurely outdoor activity.
One of the highlights of the Sentiero della Val di Toscolano is the opportunity to visit the historic paper mills of Toscolano Maderno. These mills were once a major industry in the region, and today they offer a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Sentiero Val di Toscolano is around 3 miles
Sentiero dei Mulini
The Sentiero dei Mulini, or Trail of the Mills, is an amazing hiking route that winds through the charming Valley of the Toscolano Paper Mills. This historic trail offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, along with glimpses into the region’s industrial past.
As you hike along the Sentiero dei Mulini, you’ll pass by several restored paper mills, once bustling centers of production. These mills played a vital role in the local economy for centuries, and their ruins offer a glimpse into the region’s industrial heritage.
In addition to the historic mills, the Sentiero dei Mulini also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The trail passes through flourish woods, olive groves, and vineyards, providing a peaceful and relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Be prepared for some steep sections in certain areas.
Sentiero dei Mulini is around 3 miles
Routes recap
- Lakefront Walks: Sentiero della Ponale, Busatte-Tempesta, Sentiero del Sole
- Mountain Adventures: Rocca di Manerba, Monte Baldo, Monte Luppia
- Off-beaten-path: Monte Corno, Sentiero del Garda, Monte San Giorgio
- Family-friendly: Sentiero della Val di Toscolano, Sentiero dei Mulini
Want to experience Lake Garda in a unique way? These hiking tours will take you to hidden corners, scenic trails, and historical villages. Be guided by local experts and immerse yourself in the nature and history of this enchanting lake.
