5 unmissable experiences in Garda Trentino

The Comano Terme valley is a true “Middle Land” halfway between the rugged slopes of the Brenta Dolomites and the mild, Mediterranean climate of Lake Garda, with its cool waters and dolce vita atmosphere.

Discover with us what you absolutely cannot miss on Lake Garda, the magnificent natural wonder so dear to the German writer Goethe, and prepare to spend a day enjoying the beauty and delights of the lake in a region rich in cultural attractions, romantic views, and walks in nature.

Here is our ranking of the five best ways to experience Lake Garda in Trentino.

The town of Riva is the best-known locality in northern Trentino Garda, a destination where you can breathe in all the relaxed charm of the shores of Lake Garda and for this reason also much loved by famous men of letters such as Kafka and Nietzsche. Thebest way to discover the pearl of Upper Garda is by strolling along the lake and through the lively villagelosing yourself in the narrow streets of the ancient Marocco district and along the characteristic Via Fiume, which from the wide III Novembre square, with its imposing Apponale tower, leaves the small harbour behind to climb into the heart of the historic centre.
Not to be missed is the Venetian fortress with its museum and, if you are looking for something different, the Riva hydroelectric power plant built by the famous Giancarlo Maroni, D’Annunzio’s architect.

One more tip? If you want to visit the villages and castles of Garda, don’t miss Arco and Drena; find out more in our article dedicated to the villages of Trentino.

The best vantage point for admiring Lake Garda from above? The Ponale trail!The old road that once led to Val di Ledro has been converted over the years into one of the most beautiful trails overlooking the lake.
An easy, one-hour walk suitable for everyone, but best tackled in shoes appropriate for unpaved trails, will take you through breathtaking views and the remains of the Tagliata del Ponale fortifications to the romantic Belvedere, where you can enjoy a delicious break at the eponymous bar-restaurant while admiring the Ponale waterfall.

An extra tip? If you are looking for other scenic spots in the Trentino Garda area, we recommend the spectacular walk to Punta Larici, one of the best views of Northern Lake Garda, or a stroll along the famous Garda cycle path near Limone.

Busatte Park is perfect for spending a day walking and relaxing. One of the most scenic routes in the Trentino Garda area starts here, taking you along easy trails and stairs built into the rock to the village of Tempesta on the shores of Lake Garda. From there, you can return to the park by retracing your steps, for a total of 3 hours of walking and 300 metres of elevation gain. Alternatively, you can take public transport to the small fishing village of Torbole, where you can wander through its colourful narrow streets and along the lively lakeside promenade.

An extra tip? Visiting the village of Nago and the ruins of Castel Penede is the best way to admire the lake from above. Along the way, you can stop at the ancient giant’s kettles.

Starting from Riva del Garda, the first stop is the Varone Waterfall, where the waters of the eponymous stream plunge through crevices in the rock, creating rainbows and colorful plays of light. After visiting the waterfall and its garden, the day continues towards Tenno, with its village of Canale, one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, and its emerald-green lake, where you can stop for an aperitif or a lunch featuring the famous salted meat of Upper Garda.

An extra tip? Near Tenno, you can stroll among ancient Roman ruins at the ArcheoSanMartino Archaeological Area in the small village of Campo.

The Garda Trentino area is dotted with alpine lakes where you can relax and enjoy outdoor activities. For those seeking more exercise, it is possible to walk around Lake Ledro along quiet roads and unpaved paths. A day in the Ledro Valley is not complete without a stroll through Ledro Land Art, among natural sculptures and shaded woods, and a view of the ancient Molina di Ledro stilt houses.
For food and wine lovers, the Foletto winery is a must-visit stop! A renowned pharmaceutical laboratory that produces extracts and liqueurs such as the famous Trentino Picco Rosso.

An extra tip? The best view of Lake Ledro is from the Madonnina di Besta, reachable by a thirty-minute walk starting from the fascinating stilt house museum.

The Grand Hotel is located less than 30 minutes from Riva del Garda and the villages of Northern Lake Garda and offers the opportunity to relax in the thermal waters of the Thermal Spa after a day of walks and excursions.

Take advantage of our exclusive packagesto organize your holiday between relaxation and discovering the area.