Travel Story: Hiking around Lake Garda

Arrival in Riva del Garda & First Impressions

We arrive in Riva del Garda by car in the afternoon and check into our hotel. Afterwards, we take some time to explore the charming lakeside town and soak up the atmosphere of its lively centre. In the old town, we enjoy our first cappuccino right by the waterfront, a perfect start to the days ahead. After wandering through the picturesque streets, we end the evening at one of the many authentic local restaurants, tasting the first of many delicious pasta dishes that will accompany us throughout our stay.

Palm-lined street in Riva del Garda with colorful buildings and mountain backdrop. Clear blue sky above the town center.

Our Start on the Sentiero del Sole

Before the organised Eurohike transfer, we attend the welcome briefing, where we receive all the important information and tips for the upcoming hiking tour. A short transfer then takes us to the starting point of our first stage, the Sentiero del Sole. Along the trail, numerous viewpoints offer spectacular panoramas of Lake Garda, where we can watch windsurfers skimming across the water.

After the descent, we follow the Ciclopedonale Panoramica, a scenic walkway offering breathtaking views of the lake. Continuing towards Limone sul Garda, we walk along a short stretch of road and treat ourselves to an authentic lemon gelato just before reaching the town, a refreshing local speciality. After checking into Hotel Sogno del Benaco and taking a short break, we set out to explore Limone's charming old town. We round off the day with an Aperol Spritz while enjoying beautiful views of Lake Garda.

Hiker with turquoise backpack on mountain trail overlooking Lake Garda, surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and cypress trees.

Pebble beach at Lake Garda in Riva del Garda with turquoise water, swimmers, and dramatic mountains under blue sky.

Panoramic view of Lake Garda with steep mountains rising behind a lakeside town. Blue water in foreground, terraced buildings on slopes.

Wooden boardwalk along Lake Garda with metal railings, steep rocky cliff on right, mountains across blue water under clear sky.

Tall waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff on Sentiero del Sole near Lake Garda, framed by green tree branches against a blue sky.

Hand holding lemon-shaped ice cream with whipped cream at Limone sul Garda. Lake Garda and mountains visible in the background.

From the Lakeshore to the Valley of the Paper Mills

After a delicious breakfast, we make our way to the harbour in the morning. The ferry crossing to Maderno is a highlight in itself: calm waters, clear skies, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains accompany us throughout the journey.

Upon arrival in Maderno, we begin our approximately four-hour hike through the town and into the Valley of the Paper Mills (Valle delle Cartiere). The trail leads us along shaded forest paths, past historic buildings and a small waterfall, before eventually reaching Gardone.

Stone ruins of old industrial buildings in Toscolano Maderno surrounded by lush green mountains under a clear blue sky at Lake Garda.

Colorful buildings of Limone sul Garda along the blue waters of Lake Garda with dramatic mountain cliffs rising behind the town.

Hiker walking on gravel path near Toscolano-Maderno at Lake Garda. Pink wildflowers and green vegetation line the sunny trail.

Citrus tree with orange fruits in front of historic stone building and yellow residential houses in Toscolano-Maderno under blue sky.

Sunshine, Panoramas and Dolce Vita

Starting in Salò, we first follow the lakeshore, passing a scout camp before continuing towards Cisano. Along the beach, we take a short break to soak up the sunshine and enjoy the peaceful views across the water. The following climb to the Rocca is short but steep, yet the effort is well rewarded. At the summit cross, spectacular panoramic views open up over the landscapes surrounding Lake Garda.

After descending, we continue our hike towards the breathtaking Punta Sasso. In this charming little harbour village, my mother and I enjoy a late lunch accompanied by a traditional Limoncello Spritz before taking the boat to Desenzano.

Metal summit cross on rocky peak La Rocca with blue backpack at base. Clear blue sky with wispy clouds above Lake Garda region.

Hiker with backpack walking on gravel path along Lake Garda shore near Salò, with forested mountains and blue sky in background.

View from rocky cliff in Manerba del Garda across blue Lake Garda with mountains and shoreline in the distance under clear sky.

Marina in Padenghe sul Garda with white boats moored along wooden pier. Yellow lighthouse visible, mountains in background under blue sky.

Steep rocky cliff at Punta Sasso overlooking turquoise waters of Lake Garda. Green vegetation covers the shoreline below the cliff.

From the Lakeshore Through Olive Groves to Garda

Just as we ended the previous day, we begin this one with a relaxing boat ride. A picturesque lakeside path leads us past cosy cafés that invite us to stop for a quick espresso. We then continue towards the beautiful Carmelite monastery, walking through olive groves and vineyards, one of the most scenic sections of the entire tour. After a short detour to the Rocca, we arrive in Garda, where we round off the day with a delicious pizza.

Hiker with blue backpack viewing Lake Garda from elevated trail, overlooking the town of Garda with mountains and blue water.

Yellow pansies blooming along a narrow canal in Garda old town, with historic buildings on both sides and mountains in the background.

Narrow street in Garda with colorful buildings and a trattoria restaurant. Yellow awnings and shop fronts line the pedestrian alley.

Waterfront promenade in Garda with colorful buildings along Lake Garda. A forested mountain rises behind the town under blue sky.

Harbor of Desenzano del Garda with boats and yachts moored in turquoise water. Historic buildings and trees line the waterfront with mountains visible.

Despite the Rain: Discovering Malcesine

Unfortunately, the weather has other plans today, and steady rain accompanies us throughout the day. As a result, my mother and I decide against following the standard route and choose an alternative trail instead.

Starting in Malcesine, we hike along the Sentiero dei Capitelli, following picturesque cobbled paths up to the Madonna viewpoint, which offers stunning views over the entire town. After a very steep descent that is made even more challenging by the wet and slippery conditions, we spend a relaxed afternoon exploring the charming old town and visiting the town's impressive castle.

View of Malcesine town with its medieval castle on Lake Garda, framed by green foliage. Mountains rise in the background across the blue lake.

Stone Madonna statue on a pedestal with outstretched arm overlooking Lake Garda, with mountains in the background and trees framing the scene.

Elevated view of Malcesine town on a peninsula in Lake Garda, with red-roofed buildings and a church tower, surrounded by blue water and mountains.

Golden sunset over Lake Garda at Malcesine with mountains silhouetted against the sky. The water reflects the warm light, with rocks in the foreground.

A Wonderful Finale to a Memorable Tour

Just as on the previous day, we are greeted by rainy weather, so we decide to skip the Sentiero Panoramico Le Busatte. Instead, we start our hike in Torbole and make our way up to Nago, where we are pleasantly surprised by a few warming rays of sunshine breaking through the clouds.

From there, the trail leads us back along the shores of Lake Garda towards Riva del Garda. As we walk, we take in the unique atmosphere of this charming lakeside town one last time. In the evening, we enjoy a relaxed final night, wandering through the beautiful old town and reflecting on a truly memorable hiking holiday.

Panoramic view from Nago over Torbole and Lake Garda with mountains partially covered by clouds, cypress trees and vegetation in foreground.

Panoramic view from hillside over Lake Garda hinterland with towns, green fields, and mountains under blue sky with scattered clouds.

My conclusion:

This was a truly beautiful journey that perfectly showcases the incredible diversity of Lake Garda. Each destination charms with its own unique Italian atmosphere, inviting you to slow down, relax, and enjoy the moment. The combination of dramatic mountain scenery and the vast expanse of the lake creates a wonderful sense of tranquility and connection with nature. The countless panoramic views along the way are undoubtedly among the highlights of the trip. A tour that impresses both with its stunning landscapes and its cultural charm, and one that I would highly recommend.

My Favourite Spot:

Punta Sasso is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the entire journey. This spectacular cliffside trail, with its striking red rocks, follows the shoreline and captivates visitors with its unique scenery. Along the way, we spot countless lizards basking in the sun among the rocks, bringing the landscape to life.

As we continue towards Porto Dusano, we are treated to views of beautiful bays that almost feel Caribbean-like, with turquoise waters, peaceful surroundings, and unspoilt nature. The combination of breathtaking scenery, vibrant colours, and the relaxed atmosphere makes this section of the tour an unforgettable experience.