If you have time for only one scenic hike on Lake Garda, choose the Ponale Road on Lake Garda. The Ponale Trail starts right in Riva del Garda, goes through tunnels carved into the rock, and offers open views of the lake at almost every turn.
The route from Riva is 6.4 kilometers long, with an elevation gain of almost 300 meters, and ends near Pregasina. Allow for about three hours of walking.
If you don't want to just see Lake Garda but want to take it home with you: at Terre del Garda you will find a fragrance that evokes the wind, the rock, and the water of these places.
The hiking route: what to expect on the Strada del Ponale
The hike begins right above Riva del Garda.
Just after the first few meters, the path winds along the sheer rock face, with the lake glistening beneath you and scenic vistas opening up towards the main attractions of the lake, Mount Brione, and the mountains around Riva.
Then come the tunnels. At the second and third, you can see the remains of the Tagliata del Ponale, an Austro-Hungarian fortification.
Further on, you encounter the Ponale barrage, construction of which began in 1904. Its rock-carved sections extend from the seventh tunnel down to the lake. Embrasures and doors are still visible from the road.
As you climb, you stop more and more often. Not because the path is difficult, but because from up here, the lake seems immense.
The classic destination is the Belvedere with its refreshment point. There, you can decide whether to turn back or continue towards Pregasina, Punta Larici, or all the way to Lake Ledro.
How to get there and starting point
The starting point is at the hydroelectric power plant at Via Giacomo Cis 13.
From the power plant, head south. The entrance turns off to the left just before the first tunnel.
Parking is free at the former hospital on Via Rosmini and near the former cemetery on Viale Damiano Chiesa.
Paid parking is available at Terme Romane on Viale Roma, Vecchia Stazione on Largo Medaglie d'Oro, and Ex Agraria on Via Lutti.
Those wishing to park near the entrance can find space on Via Giacomo Cis and in the Monte Oro multi-storey car park.
Ponale Alto Belvedere: the halfway refreshment point
The Ponale Alto Belvedere is located directly on the route and is a natural place to stop during the hike. In the official trail description, the first part of the tour ends here.
Sitting above the lake, you can enjoy the view and recharge with a drink or a snack before heading back or continuing towards Pregasina or the Ledro Valley.
Continuing the hike: Pregasina, Punta Larici, and Lake Ledro
If the main route isn't enough for you, there are several extensions.
After the Belvedere, you can continue left towards Pregasina. The village is perched above the lake and is a scenic spot worth visiting in its own right.
From Pregasina, you can reach Punta Larici in less than two hours. The view from up here is one of the widest on all of Lake Garda. The stretch between Bocca Larici and Punta Larici is exposed.
Those who are fitter can hike the Ponale-Larici-Rocchetta loop as a circular tour: 21.8 kilometers for about 5 hours and 40 minutes. The itinerary connects the Ponale Road to Punta Larici and returns via another side.
Those who prefer the Ledro Valley instead of Pregasina should turn right at the junction. From there, the path leads to Prè and Molina, and on to Lake Ledro.
Practical tips for hiking the Strada del Ponale
-
You share the path with mountain bikers. Be careful in curves and tunnels.
-
The best time is from April to October. For hikes on Lake Garda outside these months, check the weather and ground conditions first.
-
For the route from Riva to the Belvedere, allow about 3 hours. With Pregasina, Punta Larici, or Lake Ledro, the tour becomes significantly longer.
-
Technically, the main route does not present major difficulties, but it winds along the rock face with a risk of rockfall. Sure-footedness is required.
-
Punta Larici and the other extensions are significantly more demanding.
-
Wear sturdy hiking boots as the surface is stony in places and slippery in case of rain.
-
Carry enough water, snacks, sunscreen, and a windbreaker layer.
History of the Strada del Ponale
The Strada del Ponale was designed, financed, and built by Giacomo Cis, a merchant from Bezzecca. Construction began in 1848 and was completed in 1851.
Before the modern road tunnel, it was the only link between Riva del Garda and the Ledro Valley. After the tunnel opened, the old road was abandoned and closed to vehicular traffic.
In 2004, it was reopened as a path for hikers and cyclists.
Taking Garda home
After such a tour, there is often much more than a beautiful photograph left behind.
If you want to feel the character of the lake even at home, visit Terre del Garda and take home an authentic fragrance as a souvenir. This way, the wind, light, and rocks of Garda will accompany you for a long time even after your holiday.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the Strada del Ponale
How long is the hike on the Strada del Ponale?
The official route from Riva del Garda is stated as 6.4 kilometers long, taking about 3 hours of walking. Many hikers then continue to Pregasina or further towards Punta Larici. Consequently, the tour can become much longer.
Is it possible to hike the Strada del Ponale as a circular route?
Yes, but not the short classic version. The normal route is often walked back and forth along the same road. If you are looking for a true circular route on the Strada del Ponale, you can connect it to Pregasina and Punta Larici, returning via the Rocchetta or Malga Palaer.
Is the Strada del Ponale suitable for children?
For older children who are sure-footed, the main route is fine if you allow for enough breaks. Officially, the route is considered family-friendly, but it runs along the rock face with potential risk of rockfall. The path is not suitable for strollers.
Can the Strada del Ponale also be cycled?
Yes. The Strada del Ponale is now a shared path for hikers and cyclists. For this very reason, you must always be aware of bicycles approaching from the opposite direction.
