An itinerary on the trail of the places in the Paganella range, past the striking Lake Molveno. A long tour with tough climbs and uneven terrain.
The first uphill section of this route is at the Ballino Pass, passing Lake Tenno. Afterwards, having returned downhill, a new climb leads us towards Lake Molveno and then towards Andalo. The next descent precedes another uphill stretch, climbing the slopes of the Paganella and leading back to Andalo.
An enjoyable trip out of town, to explore the flat land of the Paganella mountain range, not far from the Garda Trentino area.
Technically, the route features a very uneven terrain, spanning over 2500 metres. The inclines are all considerably long. The climb at Ballino has a gradient of 5.5%. The second ascent, towards Andalo, is more than 25 kilometres long, but the gradient is gentler and there are a few downhill sections. The third climb, towards Fai, is the most challenging one of the day, spanning about 11 kilometres.
For more information on routes and bike services: rentals, workshops, shops and cycling friendly accommodation - APT Garda Trentino Tel. +39 0464 554444
Starting from Riva del Garda go up-hill towards Pranzo, pass trough the village of Deva, until you reach the magnificent Lake Tenno. Carry on the uphill road to the Ballino Pass (750m) and then go downhill reaching Fiavé by turning left. From here onwards take the direction of Bleggio Superiore. Beyond the village of Cavrasto, turn right towards Santa Croce to reach Bleggio Inferiore until Ponte Arche and Comano Terme. At the crossroads turn left and immediately afterwards turn right to cross over the bridge on the river Sarca in the direction of Villa Banale. From here on starts the uphill road that leads to San Lorenzo in Banale. You will flank the Lake Molveno and by going up 5 km you will reach Andalo. Go down on the right in the direction of Fai. At the end of the downhill turn left on the provincial road heading towards the Val di Non valley. After the tunnel keep the left and go uphill towards Spormaggiore from where you will have a marvellous view on the Val di Non valley and its famous apple tree gardens. Pass through Cavedago and carry on to Andalo closing the loop.
Get back on the same road, cycle through to the Ballino pass going downhill in the direction of Lake Tenno, go straight, pass through the town of Tenno and continue the panoramic downhill stret passing by Varone, where there's the magnificient waterfall, and then get back to starting point Riva del Garda.
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.
