Ponti al Lago: hiking in the surroundings of Riva del Garda

First day

Welcome to Riva del Garda
We’ll arrive in the late afternoon and check into the hotel. Before dinner, our tour guide will explain how easily we can reach the Busatte–Tempesta Trail and Lakes Tenno and Ledro on foot and by public bus. If we want, we can leave the car parked the whole time! How about a first stroll through the lights and scents of the picturesque center of Riva del Garda?

Second day

The Busatte–Tempesta and Arco Trail
Walking along the beach and crossing the long pedestrian bridge over the Sarca River, we arrive at Torbole and take a short break. After passing through the small historic center, we admire the house where Goethe spent a night in the late 1700s, before heading up the hill. Along a scenic road with views of the lake and Mount Brione, we arrive at the Busatte Park. A trail that runs like a balcony overlooking the lake—the famous Busatte-Tempesta Trail, will take us through woods and past breathtaking views all the way to the village of Tempesta, which once marked the border between the Kingdom of Italy and the Austrian Empire. Along the way, we’ll descend the famous 400 scenic iron steps suspended from the rock face. Once in Tempesta, we’ll take the bus back to Riva del Garda, just in time to rest a bit before the grand finale: we’ll see Arco di Trento and its famous Christmas markets. Those who’d like to can take a visit Arco Castle.

Third day

Lake Ledro and the Ponale Road
Directions to Lake Ledro! We’ll walk along a section of the Ponale Road, which reopened in 2004 exclusively to pedestrians and cyclists. We’ll take the old trail, and halfway through, we’ll take a well-deserved coffee break at Prè di Ledro, a village famous because the sun doesn’t shine here for 86 days each year (from November 11 to February 5). After passing through the villages of Ledro and Molina di Ledro, we reach our destination: this alpine lake lies at 650 meters above sea level, boasts incredible colors, and is famous for its stilt houses. You can visit the Pile-Dwelling Museum before returning by bus to Riva del Garda. Here, we can take the new elevator to the Venetian Bastionfor a panoramic aperitif!

Fourth day

Lake Tenno and Medieval Villages
Today’s hike will take us to Lake Tenno. From the hotel, take the pedestrian path to Varrone, where a somewhat challenging trail begins; it winds through beautiful olive groves and leads us to the foot of the Tenno Castle. Here we visit the medieval village of Frapporta , which is directly connected to the castle above—a structure that could once be reached only from within the village. Just a short walk takes us to the Grom viewpoint , offering a breathtaking view of Riva del Garda and the upper part of Lake Garda. We resume our walk, which will take us to the shore of Lake Tenno, but first, a stop at the medieval village of Canale di Tenno, recently named one of Italy’s most beautiful villages. We’ll take the local bus back to Riva del Garda. We’ll pick up our luggage and say our goodbyes around 3:00 p.m., but those who can stay a few more hours can visit the beautiful Varone Waterfall. We’ll be back at the hotel around 5 p.m. See you next time!