Hiking around Lake Garda

A brand-new tour around Lake Garda

Every new tour begins with an idea—a vague picture in my mind. But it’s only once I’m on location that I can truly see what’s possible to bring to life in nature. Each time, it’s an exciting and rewarding challenge.

Hiking around Lake Garda in just one week? At first, that sounds almost impossible. The shoreline stretches over 150 kilometers (about 93 miles) and is fringed by a vast network of mountain and hiking trails. Choosing the most hike-worthy routes from this wealth of options requires a close look at every detail.

Punta Larici viewpoint with a view of Lake Garda

Around Lake Garda

8 Days

3 ratings

My journey begins in Riva del Garda, on the northern shore of Lago di Garda. It’s a familiar place to me, as several of Eurohike’s original tours end here. It’s always a pleasure to return to this lively little town. Countless charming restaurants and gelaterias invite you to relax and unwind over pasta, cappuccino, and a scoop of homemade gelato.

On the northern shore, the lake narrows, and the surrounding mountains with their alpine peaks rise steeply. The frequent winds make this part of the lake a paradise for water sports enthusiasts—surfers, kiters, and sailors all find ideal conditions here. Along the many beautiful beaches that line the expansive shoreline, there’s always a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere. Music and expertly crafted cocktails fill the air with vacation vibes and good cheer.

But I’m not here to relax on the beach. For me, it’s time to hit the mountains! I’m searching for answers: How can I hike all the way around the lake? Where can I find moderate trails? I’m setting out to discover routes suitable for experienced hikers—but not for mountaineers, climbers, or triathletes. Let’s get started!

The alpine north

On the Sun Trail to Limone

The first route attempts from Riva to Limone led through steep, demanding terrain—perfect for mountain goats, but hardly suitable for most hikers. So, I went in search of a more accessible alternative. A lakeside trail? Unfortunately not. Between Riva del Garda and Limone, rugged cliffs rise dramatically, making a shoreline hike impossible. To spare our guests these extreme ascents, I chose a short transfer to a particularly scenic spot—an ideal starting point for the first stage of the tour.

Our journey begins on the Sentiero del Sole—the Sun Trail. This newly constructed cycling and walking path, suspended above the water, is a sight to behold: a feat of modern engineering and a breathtaking project, complete with spectacular viewpoints. For several kilometers, the boardwalk clings to the cliffside, offering uninterrupted views over the lake. It’s a highlight for every visitor, perfect for a leisurely stroll—like a floating lakeside promenade gently guiding you toward Limone.

A short detour to a nearby waterfall offers a refreshing pause—just what I need before savoring my first (and absolutely necessary) lemon gelato in Limone. In the afternoon, the route heads inland and climbs up to a panoramic trail high above the sparkling waters of Lake Garda. A scenic path winds along the mountain slopes, gently rising and falling, before descending back to the lakeshore. A quick dip in the cool water brings a welcome boost of energy, and I end the day with a relaxed walk through manicured parks and colorful gardens.

If time allows, a visit to the Fishing Museum is well worth it—it offers a fascinating look into the history of Limone and the region’s fishing culture. In the evening, I explore Limone’s lively town center. That unmistakable vacation vibe sets in, and at one of the cozy harborfront restaurants, I enjoy a delicious fish dish—fresh from the lake, of course.

Viewpoint at the Sentiero del Sole on Lake Garda

Elegant Lombardy

Authentic and Wild: The Beautiful Western Shore

Heading south from Limone, the western shore of Lake Garda reveals itself as rugged, wild, and secluded. This section invites a scenic boat ride down the lake, and I disembark at the Toscolano-Maderno peninsula. Today’s stage will lead me further south along hiking trails, showcasing a landscape that contrasts sharply with the north: rolling hills, endless forests, numerous mountain biking routes, and the renowned “Bassa Via del Garda.” Unlike the so-called “Alta Via” (high route), the “Bassa Via” (low route) avoids alpine peaks, instead meandering gently and comfortably through shady forests and olive groves. Here, you can fully savor the tranquility away from tourist crowds, along with frequent stunning views of the deep blue lake. My destination today is Gardone Riviera, a town celebrated for its elegant charm, grand villas, and expansive botanical gardens. A stroll through its charming streets is essential before I descend to the lakeshore and indulge in a delicious gelato at one of the harbor’s gelaterias. Now, I truly feel I’ve arrived in Lombardy.

Panoramic hike near Gardone Riviera on Lake Garda

From Saló to Sirmione

The next day, I set off from the charming neighboring town of Salò. The lakeside promenades are gentle and pleasant to walk, perfect for watching ducks and water sports enthusiasts—and maybe even taking a quick dip, as the lake lies calm and still here in the sheltered bay. Soon, however, the flat promenade ends, and I navigate a few alleys and switchbacks along the road to reconnect with the hiking trail. The path undulates gently, demanding careful attention—but eventually, I find it: at an unassuming hairpin turn, just behind the guardrail, a steep trail begins.

It leads me to Cisano, a tiny village where I slip through narrow, cobblestone streets. Once atop, I follow a combined foot and bike path winding through fragrant olive groves. Before long, I reach San Felice del Benaco—the “pleasant harbor of Benaco,” as its name suggests. Here, a cozy café and a small monastery with a pilgrimage church offer a perfect spot to pause and breathe deeply.

Leaving the peaceful solitude of San Felice del Benaco, I soon encounter a stark contrast: the path descends to the lake and plunges right into the heart of the bustling tourist area. The trail hugs a narrow lakeside footpath past lively campgrounds. Vacationers are in high spirits—swimming, grilling, laughing, savoring the moment, and raising their glasses in my direction. I stroll past the last beach, Le Picchie, which also marks the end of the camping zone.

Now, what next? The trail must continue somewhere, but I find myself at a dead end. A quick check of my maps reveals a hidden path—steps tucked away in the woods. My hiking heart leaps with joy. The day’s most challenging section lies ahead: the climb up to Sasso Piano—a rocky peninsula crowned by ancient ruins. The trail follows dramatic cliffside paths with breathtaking views down to numerous islands below. Before me unfolds a new perspective on Lake Garda—completely different from the north: a wide basin, gentle shores, rolling hills, and distant soaring mountains immediately captivate me.

On the horizon, the distinctive peninsula of Sirmione soon appears—one of the lake’s most famous spots—and I arrive at the small harbor of Dusano. Here, there’s a free beach, a cozy inn, and a pier. In the late afternoon, a boat departs from here, taking me on a leisurely ride to today’s destination: Desenzano del Garda—a lively small town with bustling streets. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from, and after a refreshing swim in the lake, I head into town for the evening. Now, fully in the southern part of Lake Garda, I have reached the halfway point of my journey around the lake.

Church of San Giorgio on the Rocca di Manerba

View in the nature reserve of the Rocca di Manerba and Sasso Piano

This hiking tour around Italy’s largest lake spans three regions—starting in the alpine scenery of Trentino, winding south to the elegant Lombard Riviera, then crossing Veneto and the Monte Baldo area, before looping back north with breathtaking views of the Dolomites beyond.

Around Lake Garda

8 Days