This itinerary proposes the climb to Malga Campo. The tour leaves from Riva del Garda, passes through Arco and Dro, then reaches Drena, from where it heads uphill, on the slopes of Mount Stivo. The ascent, on a narrow road full of bends, has an average 10% gradient, making it one of the steepest climbs in the Garda Trentino area. After an extremely taxing climb just over 8 kilometres long, we reach the malga, which affords a breathtaking view of the Brenta range in the distance.
Gradients suitable for true grimpeurs, who are not afraid to work up a sweat.
For more information on routes and bike services: rentals, workshops, shops and cycling friendly accommodation - APT Garda Trentino Tel. +39 0464 554444
Give your bike a regular checkup, especially if you've had it for years.
Be seen: you must wear a high vis jacket (or sash) in tunnels and on country roads after sunset.
Always wear your helmet.
Make sure your front and rear lights are working.
Put out your arm to give advance warning of your intention to change position and before you do anything, check there are no vehicles coming up behind you.
Don't use headphones or your mobile phone handsfree kit: you need all your concentration on the road!
Obey the road signs: stop at traffic lights and don't ride on the wrong side of the road.
If you are cycling in a group, always go in single file.
You've got a bell: use it to let pedestrians know you're there. Don't ride on footpaths. If you have to then get off and push your bike.
If there are cycle paths use them. It's your safety that's at stake and the rules of the road say you must.
This route departs from Riva del Garda. Taking the cycle path headed north, we reach the town of Arco. Here, we leave the cycle path for a moment and pass through the town. We reach the bridge over the river Sarca. But we don’t cross it, as just a few metres past the crossroads, the cycle path begins again. We skirt the river Sarca for several kilometres and turn right at Ceniga. Having passed through the residential area of Dro and reached the church, we head straight on. We keep going at the roundabout, a few metres further on. After the road bridge and a short straight section, the climb towards Drena begins.
Once we’ve bypassed the “Drena” sign on the right, we take the downhill road leading to the village, leaving the majestic castle behind. We continue straight ahead, following the signs for Malga Campo.
The climb to the malga, about 8 kilometres long, is exceptionally tough.
The return journey takes us back along the same route.
The towns in Garda Trentino - Riva del Garda, Torbole sul Garda and Arco – are connected by several urban and intercity bus lines which will take you to the starting point or in the immediate surroundings.
For up-to-the-minute information on timetables and routes
You can also get to Riva del Garda and Torbole sul Garda by the public ferry service.
Getting to northern lake Garda / Garda Trentino
Free parking in Riva del Garda at the old hospital (via Rosmini) and the old cemetery (Viale D. Chiesa).
Pay parking at the Public Gardens Porta Orientale, Roman Baths, Viale Lutti (Ex Agraria), Monte Oro, shopping center Blue Garden.
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 drop your energy levels. The unexpected things also make up a part of the fun!
Do not compare a road bike with a mountain bike. They are very different, especially in technical terms, and facing a hill with a road bike could be much more difficult than facing the same hill with a MTB. Therefore, remember to throughly evaluate the type of route you plan to do and the locations you plan to cross. Do not forget to consider the current season. Has it been raining? Attention: the paint of the crosswalk could be very slick.
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.