The shortest route of the famous Bike Marathon, part of the Riva del Garda Bike Festival aims at well prepared cyclists or e-bikers who enjoy climbing.
31 kilometers long with just over 1000 (1069) meters in altitude and "top" at 1037 m.a.s.l is what awaits the bikers participating at the Ronda Piccola. The start is in Riva and the ronda continues through the inhabited areas of Varone, where the waterfalls of the same name are located, then Cologna, Gavazzo, and Ville del Monte. Going up this villages the view on Lake Garda and the plain, that the locals call "Busa", is unique.
The Piccola then reaches Lake Tenno: this lake is a serenity heaven with crystal clear waters and unspoilt landscape.
Along the road called “Mena” the trail reaches first Bastiani and finally Vedesè. At the "Sella di Calino" the Ronda Piccola immediately faces the highest point of the route. Here, the paths divide and the view of the largest Italian lake is magnificent.
The Piccola then continues through the villages of the area and immersed in the Olivaia descends in the direction of Varignano to end the efforts in Riva del Garda.
Although it is the shortest route of the "Garda Trentino Bike Marathon", the elevation profile certainly makes up for it. The climbs are considerable, reaching over 20% in some sections. The terrain varies quite frequently: from asphalt and concrete to forest roads and gravel sections. There is a little bit of everything!
For more information on routes, bike services (rentals, workshops, shops) and cycling friendly accommodation: Garda Trentino - +39 0464 554444
Safety Tips
This information is subject to inevitable variations, so none of these indications are absolute. It is not entirely possible to avoid giving inexact or imprecise information, given how quickly environmental and weather conditions can change. For this reason, we decline any responsibility for changes which the user may encounter. In any case, it is advisable to check environment and weather conditions before setting out.
After starting in the heart of the old town of Riva del Garda, the first few kilometres of the route lead through the picturesque areas of Varone, Cologna and Gavazzo to Tenno. Afterwards it follows on a dirt road to Ville del Monte. The route continues along a beautiful gravel road to the unique Lake Tenno, famous for its unspoilt landscape and turquoise blue colour.
After the ascent to Monte Calino the highest point of the Ronda Piccola is reached (1.037 meters above zero). Passing the "Sella di Calino", the trail returns to Vedesè on easy paths and then on a beautiful single trail to Rancione. The breathtaking descent starts on an old mule track down to Novino. Via Volta di Nò the route leads via Varignano to the festival area and back to the finish. A great performance has been achieved.
The main towns in Garda Trentino - Riva del Garda, Arco, Torbole sul Garda, Nago – are connected by several urban and intercity bus lines which will take you to the starting point of tours or in the immediate surroundings.
You can also get to Riva del Garda and Torbole sul Garda by the public ferry service.
Up-to-date information on timetables and routes.
A22 motorway, exit: Rovereto Sud - Lago di Garda. Then SS240 in the direction of Riva del Garda.
Find out how to reach Garda Trentino.
Parking near the former hospital (Via Rosmini) or the former cemetery (Viale Damiano Chiesa).
Paid parking: Terme Romane (Viale Roma), Vecchia stazione (Largo Medaglie d’Oro), Ex-agraria (Via Lutti), Area ex-Cattoi (Viale Rovereto).
Riding your bike requires specific clothing and equipment, even for relatively short and easy trips. It is always better to be prepared… e.g. for bad weather or a sudden drop in your energy levels. The unexpected things are part of the fun!
Remember to thoroughly evaluate the type of route you plan on doing, the locations you intend to cross and the current season. Has it been raining? Attention: The paths may be slippery and require more caution.
What do I need to bring on my bike tour?
It is always advised to let someone know where you plan to go and how long you expect to be.
Emergency telephone number 112.
