The 10 most beautiful scenic roads of Lake Garda
Around Lake Garda you will find some of the most beautiful scenic roads in Europe.
Many routes offer spectacular views and alternate between open stretches and narrow tunnels.
You can travel them in a relaxed way by car or experience them more actively by motorbike or bicycle.
What they all have in common is a special combination of landscape, altitude, and expansive views.
Strada della Forra
The Strada della Forra is considered one of the most spectacular roads in Europe.
It winds through a narrow gorge with tunnels, rock walls, and breathtaking curves.
The road is located on the west side of Lake Garda and connects the lakeshore with the Tremosine plateau. The play of light, rock, and depth is particularly impressive.
Practical information
• Length: about six kilometers
• Sharp change in elevation over a short distance
• Paved and very narrow road
• Ideal for cars and motorbikes
Ponale Road
The Ponale Road runs high above the lake between Riva del Garda and the Ledro Valley. It offers a constant panoramic view of the water and the rock faces.
The route is historical and carved into the rock. Today it is one of the most beautiful scenic trails in the region.
Practical information
• Length: about ten kilometers
• Constant climb
• Compact gravel surface
• Ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and e-bikes
• Not suitable for cars
Scenic road to Tremosine
The road that leads to Tremosine sul Garda climbs from the lake up to a plateau. It offers expansive views of Lake Garda and the steep walls below.
The hairpin bends above the water are particularly impressive. The route combines panoramas and an alpine character.
Practical information
• Length: about 8 kilometers
• Notable elevation gain
• Highly appreciated for scenic drives
• Paved mountain road
• Well-suited for cars and motorbikes
Gardesana Occidentale
The Gardesana Occidentale is the main road along the western shore of the lake. It connects towns such as Limone, Gargnano, and Salò.
It passes through numerous tunnels and runs along steep rock faces. At times, splendid views of the lake open up.
Practical information
• Long coastal road with many sections
• Paved main road
• Suitable for cars and motorbikes (heavy traffic in high season)
Gardesana Orientale
The Gardesana Orientale runs along the eastern shore and offers long stretches with open views of the lake.
The road is wider and smoother than the one on the western side.
The stretches between Bardolino, Garda, and Malcesine are particularly beautiful.
Practical information
• Long coastal road with numerous residential centers
• Paved main road
• Very suitable for cars and motorbikes, also ideal for a relaxed drive
Campione–Tignale scenic road
The Campione del Garda–Tignale scenic road is one of the most evocative climbs on Lake Garda.
It winds through tight hairpin bends from the lake up to the plateau, repeatedly offering wide views of the water and the rock walls.
The altitude provides a particularly alpine atmosphere.
Practical information
• Length: about 8 kilometers
• Significant elevation gain
• Paved mountain road with many hairpin bends
• Ideal for cars and motorbikes, very popular for scenic tours
Malcesine–Monte Baldo Road
The road that climbs from Malcesine towards Monte Baldo takes you quickly from a Mediterranean climate to alpine heights.
At every hairpin bend, the view of the lake opens up even more. The route is varied and scenically very impressive.
Practical information
• Length: about twelve kilometers
• Significant elevation gain
• Paved mountain road, ideal for cars and motorbikes
Road to the Ledro Valley
The road to the Ledro Valley connects Lake Garda to a tranquil mountain landscape. Along the way, you can enjoy beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Practical information
• Length: about 10 kilometers
• Regular climb
• Paved mountain road
• Suitable for cars, motorbikes, and e-bikes, pleasant to drive
Nago–Torbole scenic road
The Nago–Torbole scenic road is short but spectacular. It descends from the plateau to the lake with tight hairpin bends.
It is particularly appreciated at sunrise and in the evening hours.
Practical information
• Length: about 3 kilometers
• Ideal for cars, motorbikes, and racing bikes
• Very popular for photo stops
San Zeno di Montagna scenic road
The scenic road near San Zeno di Montagna winds quietly above the eastern shore of the lake. It offers wide views of the entire Lake Garda and Monte Baldo.
The route has little traffic and conveys a sense of relaxation. Ideal for driving calmly and without stress.
Practical information
• Several sections connected to each other
• Paved secondary road
• Very suitable for cars and motorbikes
• Quiet and with little traffic
The best starting points for Lake Garda's scenic roads
An ideal starting point is Riva del Garda, from where you can quickly reach the Ponale Road, the Ledro Valley, and the Gardesana Occidentale.
Malcesine is perfect for routes towards Monte Baldo and the Gardesana Orientale.
Torbole is also well-positioned, especially for short scenic stretches like Nago–Torbole.
Those looking for more tranquility will find San Zeno di Montagna a relaxing base with expansive views of the lake.
Visit our store and take home an authentic memory of Lake Garda
After driving along the most beautiful scenic roads, it is worth visiting Terre del Garda.
The fragrances and home essences capture the atmosphere of Lake Garda and evoke rock, sun, and open horizons.
This way, you will take home an authentic piece of your trip.
