An itinerary with a medium level of difficulty, centred on the climb up Mount Velo. Return towards the lake through the pretty Vallagarina.
Classed as one of the "Great climbs of Trentino", Mount Velo is a must for all cycling enthusiasts, especially the gradient mad. It stretches for almost 13 kilometres mostly in the shade, to reach the Santa Barbara Pass at an altitude of 1170 metres.
This route is a pleasant alternative to the classic Mount Velo - Loppio loop. In fact, those with any energy left at the end can also tackle the additional short climb to the Bordala Pass. The next long descent takes us into the Vallagarina Valley, renowned for its vineyards.
From a technical standpoint, the climb has a very constant gradient of around 8.5%, with a few short sections exceeding 12%. The descent is very pleasant, as the roadway is ultra-wide and the traffic extremely quiet.
Here it won’t take us long to drain our water bottles, especially in the summertime. No problem: there are fountains in the middle and on the top of the Velo climb.
For more information on routes and bike services: rentals, workshops, shops and cycling friendly accommodation - APT Garda Trentino Tel. +39 0464 554444
Cross the bridge of Arco and at the roundabout turn right in the direction of Bolognano. After other 2 roundabouts turn left where the Giro d'Italia race stage, as well a King of the Mountains climb, starts. Go uphill the Mount Velo for 12 km through woods enjoying the striking landscape of Garda Trentino, get over the hump at the Santa Barbara Pass, elevation 1130 m.
After a fast downhill road you reach the town of Ronzo Chienis, turn left and pass through the village. Here starts the climb that takes to the Bordala pass followed by a downhill road, initially narrow and steep, afterwards larger and overlooking on the Adige Valley. At the first crossroad turn right towards Villalagarina continuing past the villages of Castellano, Pedersano and Nogaredo. Once reached Villalagarina turn right and take the provincial road passing through Marano and Isera up to Mori. At this point take the cycle path in direction of Nago, passing through the nature reserve of the Lake Loppio and the S. Giovanni pass.
At the roundabout at the end of the town of Nago go left, go downhill towards Torbole sul Garda. Take the cycle path in order to avoid the tunnel and reach Riva del Garda. At the first roundabout turn right. After few meters take the cycle path, which brings you back to Arco.
All loop itineraries can be done in both ways
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.
Free parking in Caneve (5 min. walk from the town centre).
More Pay parking: Foro Boario parking, via Caproni Maini (Car park near the bridge), Post office (Via Monache).
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.
