In this article, we present to you the 10 most beautiful hikes around Lake Garda.
Each itinerary brings you closer to nature, offers spectacular views, and invites you to slow down. You will also find useful tips on planning, equipment, and the best seasons for your walking adventure.
1 – Monte Baldo and Cima delle Pozzette
One of the most beloved high-altitude traverses on Lake Garda starts at the Malcesine cable car mountain station and reaches Cima delle Pozzette (2,132 m).
The path largely follows the ridge with wide views of the lake, the Dolomites, and the Trentino hinterland. It alternates between alpine meadows, stony sections, and rocky passages. The view from the peak looking north is memorable. On clear days, the gaze stretches as far as Cima Valdritta and even Punta Telegrafo. A challenging but unmissable itinerary for experienced hikers.
Route data
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Length: 11 km
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Difficulty: hard
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Elevation gain: approx. 625 m
Useful notes
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Well-marked trail (path 651), with steep and rocky sections at high altitude.
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Some exposed passages in the middle of the itinerary: excellent sure-footedness is required.
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Technical portals such as hiwio.com and Outdooractive classify it as challenging.
2 – On the old Ponale Road
A dream itinerary starts from Riva del Garda along the historic Ponale Road to Pregasina, with continuous views of the lake and the Ledro Valley.
The route runs high above the water, carved into the rock with several tunnels. Surrounded by Mediterranean scrub, dizzying views, and Austro-Hungarian fortifications, it combines elegance, history, and landscape. Also frequently used by cyclists, it offers more calm on foot. A classic for those who love to combine lake and mountain experiences.
Route data
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Length: 10.3 km
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Difficulty: moderate
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Elevation gain: approx. 780 m
Useful notes
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Signage D 01. Steep sections without safety railings: exercise caution if you suffer from vertigo or with children.
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Very popular route: be careful when crossing paths with cyclists.
3 – Punta Larici
A very popular itinerary from Pregasina to Punta Larici (approx. 907 m), a natural balcony with a view from Riva del Garda to Limone and Monte Brione.
The path alternates between forest and comfortable forest roads. At the top, a rocky ledge overlooking the lake awaits you. Two variants lead to the summit: the 422B, which is wider and suitable for families; and the 422A, which is more exposed on the ridge.
Route data
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Length: 3.2 km
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Difficulty: moderate
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Elevation gain: approx. 367 m
Useful notes
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The 422B is suitable for most hikers.
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The 422A runs along exposed sections: sure-footedness is needed.
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Parking in Pregasina is limited: it is better to arrive early.
4 – Monte Bestone
An exceptional viewpoint in the Alto Garda Bresciano Park, southwest of Limone.
From the village of Voltino (easier) or from Limone (tougher), you reach Monte Bestone (917 m), with a view of the upper Garda, Limone, and Mount Baldo. Forest paths, ridges, and clearings alternate; the summit cross offers panoramas that, on clear days, allow you to see as far as the Dolomites.
Route data
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Length: 5.3 km
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Difficulty: moderate
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Elevation gain: approx. 250 m (from Voltino) / up to approx. 840 m (from Limone)
Useful notes
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Short variant from Voltino (path 211), well-marked and shaded: ideal for families.
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The direct route from Limone is steeper, passing along the “Senter delle Farfalle,” with equipped sections.
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Intense sun in the higher sections: wear sunscreen and bring plenty of water.
5 – Lake Tenno Loop
An easy and scenic walk in the Garda hinterland.
From the parking lot above the lake, a narrow path completes the loop around the turquoise water, through forest and rocks. Family-friendly and perfect for those looking for nature and crystal-clear views. Highlights include the tibetan bridge over the Rio Secco and the medieval village of Canale di Tenno, one of the most beautiful in Italy.
Route data
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Length: 2.8 km
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Difficulty: easy
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Elevation gain: approx. 60 m
Useful notes
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Marked as loop no. 406.
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The new tibetan bridge offers spectacular views: use caution on wet ground.
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In summer, the swimming areas are very crowded.
6 – Monte Brione: between history and panorama
A historic itinerary from Torbole to Monte Brione (approx. 376 m), a peninsula between the Garda and the mouth of the Sarca.
You walk along old paths from the First World War, amidst Mediterranean scrub and viewpoints. Bunkers, outposts, and tunnels recount the era of the Austro-Hungarian Empire; from the summit plateau, there is a splendid view of the north Garda, Torbole, and Riva. Short but varied: perfect for history buffs and lovers of viewpoints.
Route data
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Length: 4 km
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Difficulty: easy
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Elevation gain: approx. 200 m
Useful notes
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Marked as “Sentiero della Pace” (Path of Peace). The ground is partly stony with steep ramps.
7 – Ascent to Monte Cadria or Monte Misone
An alpine-style excursion in the mountains north of the Garda: Cima Cadria (2,254 m) or Monte Misone (2,150 m).
You usually start from Passo Ampola or Lake Ampola, in the Alto Garda Park. High-altitude paths, rocky ground, and – in season – possible snowfields. From the summit, there is a panorama of Valvestino, Lake Garda, and the Trentino mountain chains. A technical itinerary for experienced hikers.
Route data
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Length: approx. 18 km
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Difficulty: hard
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Elevation gain: approx. 1,400 m
Useful notes
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Partial signage only, sections of scree.
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In spring, there is a potential avalanche risk: careful planning is required.
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Outdooractive indicates alpine conditions: hiking boots and competence in mountain terrain are necessary.
8 – Valle delle Cartiere (Toscolano)
A pleasant thematic route in the “paper valley,” behind Toscolano Maderno.
You follow the Toscolano stream past the ruins of historic paper mills and information panels about the papermaking tradition. The Paper Museum offers more insight into the visit. A mostly flat and shaded section: ideal even on hot days. A splendid fusion of nature, water, and industrial archaeology.
Route data
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Length: 4.5 km
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Difficulty: easy
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Elevation gain: approx. 260 m
Useful notes
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Continuous signage from Toscolano (start at Ponte Vecchio).
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The ground is almost entirely easy, but with stony sections: closed shoes are needed.
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There is an admission fee for the museum; the trail is free.
Planning and safety tips for Lake Garda
Walking around Lake Garda can be relaxing or challenging: it depends on how you prepare. Here are practical guidelines to organize and enjoy your outings safely.
Best times to walk
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The ideal months are April–June and September–October.
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In mid-summer, low elevations are very hot; in spring, there may still be snow at high altitudes.
Equipment and clothing
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Hiking boots with good grip are always recommended, even on short trips.
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Enough water, sun protection, a hat, and snacks for long trips.
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Always carry a lightweight rain jacket in your backpack.
Orientation and signage
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Generally well-marked trails (red-white stripes with numbers).
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An updated map or GPS app (Outdooractive, Komoot) is useful, especially on less-traveled paths.
Assess your condition
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Many routes have significant elevation gains. Check the distance, elevation gain, and difficulty beforehand.
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Plan your breaks and do not underestimate the sun and the descent.
Public transport and cable cars
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Some trailheads can be reached by bus (e.g., Pregasina, Voltino, Malcesine).
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The cable cars (such as the one on Monte Baldo) save on elevation gain and offer scenic access to the trails.
FAQ: Hiking at Lake Garda
What is the best hike for families?
The Lake Tenno loop: short, mostly flat, scenic, and with areas for swimming.
How difficult are the climbs to Cadria or Baldo?
They are challenging: they require good physical fitness, sure-footedness, and experience in an alpine environment (especially on Cima Cadria).
What is the best season for hiking at Garda?
April–June and September–October: mild temperatures, trails in good condition, and often excellent visibility.
How do I reach trailheads like Pregasina or Voltino?
By car or by regional buses from Riva del Garda and Limone. Parking is limited: it is best to start early.
Are hiking boots or cable car tickets necessary?
Hiking boots are always recommended. For loops on Monte Baldo, it is worth buying a ticket for the Malcesine cable car.
