Hikes in Garda

Located in the middle of the province of Veneto and fantastically situated on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, the small town of Garda awaits its visitors with numerous places of interest. Garda is just as popular as an excursion destination as it is as a holiday resort. Holidaymakers can explore the charming town centre from the many hotels and camping sites. The harbour, the weekly market or simply a stroll through the charming narrow streets are particularly popular.

Those who not only want to enjoy la dolce vita - the sweet life - on Lake Garda, but are also looking for a challenge or two, will not be disappointed. Active people will find a whole range of activities both on the water and on land. Italy's largest lake invites you to go pedal boating, sailing or stand-up paddling. The best times for hiking on Lake Garda are spring and autumn, when the temperatures are pleasantly mild. If you want to hike around Lake Garda, you can cover about 140 kilometres. More beautiful, however, are individual tours away from the road and up into the mountains - with fantastic views of Italy's largest lake.

As the local mountain of Lake Garda, Monte Baldo is an absolute must-see when you are on holiday in Garda. At over 2000 metres high, it is the largest mountain massif on the eastern shore of Lake Garda. A spectacular 360-degree gondola takes you from Malcesine either up the mountain or down again after an ascent. From the summit, the whole of Lake Garda spreads out in a fantastic view at your feet. On the green meadows and in the rocks of the mountain, all kinds of inhabitants hide, such as marmots and chamois.

Hiking up or down Monte Baldo should not be underestimated. The trails are sometimes steep and rocky. However, the paths lead you through picturesque forests and you can always enjoy the view of Lake Garda and its surroundings. There are also various places to stop for refreshments, both at the top and at the middle station.

Tip: Monte Baldo is not only a highlight for hikers. The mountain massif is also a true Dorado for fans of mountain biking, trail running or paragliding.

Also from Garda, various hiking trails lead into the romantic nature of Trentino or alternatively along the lake. A beautiful tour, for example, takes you through various vineyards and along some places of interest. Shortly after the start of the tour, the statue of the Madonna del Pign, which is well worth seeing, awaits you.

From there, you climb up to the Rocca di Garda, a striking rock that separates Garda from the holiday resort of Bardolino. It is said that a queen or princess was once imprisoned there - today hikers enjoy the view over the lake and the villages on the opposite shore. The route then continues on alpine paths over the Rocca saddle to the Eremo della Rocca monastery. From there you descend again. Finally, the path leads you back to Garda via the picturesque lake promenade.

More hiking tours around Garda:

• Rock drawings on Monte Lupia
• &Um;ber die Rocca di Garda nach Bardolino
• From Torri del Benaco to Garda