A panoramic itinerary, ideal for viewing Lake Garda from a different angle. Moderate climbs, with an average gradient of about 5-6%.
This itinerary involves travelling along the Gardesana Occidentale for a long stretch, where we can enjoy splendid glimpses of the lake from high up and passing through a series of short and long tunnels.
The climb towards the districts of the municipality of Tignale offers us a different view of the lake. The panorama is the same, but from this new perspective it is even more breathtaking. From the municipality of Tignale, we head towards Tremosine, another pearl of Lake Garda. Once we descend and rejoin the Gardesana, this fantastic loop comes to an end.
From a technical standpoint, the route only includes one ascent, but the reasonably gentle gradients make it accessible for many. Remember to make sure your lights are working and wear a high vis jacket to ensure you are easy to see in the many tunnels along this route.
For more information on routes and bike services: rentals, workshops, shops and cycling friendly accommodation - APT Garda Trentino Tel. +39 0464 554444
From Riva del Garda head towards Limone sul Garda taking the “Gardesana Occidentale (Western Gardesana)” road: approximately 20 km partially into tunnels flanking the Lake Garda from Trentino to Lombardy.
Gone past Limone cycle beyond another tunnel (inside of which you will see the crossroad to Campione sul Garda) and turn right, from here on starts the only uphill tunnel, approximately 2 km long, taking to the Plateau of Tremosine. Turning right you will pass through Piovere, Gardola and Prabione, characteristic little villages perched over the lake.
From here on you enter the Brescia hinterland. By cycling a steep downhill and following 2 km climb through the woods you reach Vesio and afterwards Ustecchio. A steep but panoramic downhill takes you back to Limone sul Garda. Travel the Western Gardesana through again heading north and get back to Riva del Garda.
For a shorter tour, turn right just before Campione del Garda, by taking an uphill road of approximately 10 km we can arrive at Vesio and then follow the tour. In this case we would pass through a marvellous gorge where some scenes of the 007 “Quantum of Solace” movie were filmed.
We remind that headlights and rearlights as well as the use of reflecting suspenders are obligatory in tunnels, even considering that most of these are illuminated.
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.
