Where the Dolomites meet Lake Garda, with spectacular views, picturesque villages and a truly unique energy.
Alto Garda is a valley community in Trento. It is located in the northern part of Lake Garda, where the mountains reflect in the crystal-clear waters of the lake. This area is characterized by a mild climate and an extraordinary variety of landscapes, ranging from beaches to alpine peaks. The most important summits in the area include Monte Baldo (2,218 m), known as the “Garden of Europe” for its rich biodiversity, Cima Valdes (2,153 m) and Cima Rocca (1,089 m).
Alto Garda is a valley community in Trento. It is located in the northern part of Lake Garda, where the mountains reflect in the crystal-clear waters of the lake. This area is characterized by a mild climate and an extraordinary variety of landscapes, ranging from beaches to alpine peaks. The most important summits in the area include Monte Baldo (2,218 m), known as the “Garden of Europe” for its rich biodiversity, Cima Valdes (2,153 m) and Cima Rocca (1,089 m).
The Alto Garda Dolomites area is well connected and easily accessible, making it a convenient destination for both those traveling by car and those who prefer public transportation. The closest highway exits are Rovereto Sud – Lago di Garda Nord and Trento Nord, both on the A22 Brenner motorway. From Rovereto, take the SS240, which in about 25–30 minutes leads to Riva del Garda, Arco, Nago-Torbole and other main towns of Garda Trentino.
For those arriving by train, the closest station is Rovereto, which is connected to the main national and international routes. From the station, there is an efficient regular bus service (operated by Trentino Trasporti), the convenient Bus & Go on-demand service bookable via app, as well as taxi and private shuttle services, ideal for transporting sports equipment such as bikes or kiteboards.
During the summer months, seasonal lines and tourist connections are also active, making it easier to travel between the various locations across the area—between the lake, mountains and villages—promoting sustainable and stress-free mobility. Additionally, for cycling tourists, there are bike shuttles connecting the starting points of the main mountain bike trails, making Alto Garda an ideal destination even for those traveling without a car.
Along the western shore of Lake Garda, nestled between water and mountains, lie some of the most charming villages of Alto Garda. Riva del Garda is the most famous, overlooking the lake’s clear blue waters. It boasts a historic center rich in palaces, lively squares and outdoor cafés, as well as the MAG – Museo Alto Garda, housed in the lakeside fortress. It’s the perfect starting point for hikes on Monte Brione and for water-based activities and sports like sailing, canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).
Arco, not far away, is the home of sport climbing, famous for its cliffs visited by climbers from all over the world. Its medieval castle overlooks the town center, while the Mediterranean microclimate nurtures olive groves, palm trees and botanical gardens. It’s a charming, small town, perfect for those who love sports, wellness and culture.
Nago-Torbole is a town with a dual personality: Torbole, overlooking the lake, is a paradise for wind and kite surfing thanks to its consistent winds and it also hosts the starting point of the panoramic Garda cycling route; Nago, situated higher up, retains the charm of a rural village with open views over the lake and trails leading up to Monte Altissimo.
Ledro, in the green valley that leads to the eponymous lake, is a perfect destination for those seeking nature and authenticity. Lake Ledro, clear and swimmable, is surrounded by beaches, woods and peaceful villages like Molina and Pieve. Here you can also find the prehistoric pile dwellings, a UNESCO World Heritage site, along with many routes for mountain biking, trekking and hiking.
Tenno is one of the most charming villages in Trentino, with its stone houses, cobblestone streets and views overlooking the lake below. The nearby Lake Tenno, with its unmistakable turquoise color, is a gem nestled among the woods. From here, you can also reach on foot the medieval village of Canale di Tenno, considered one of the most beautiful in Italy.
Drena lies at the foot of Monte Bondone, surrounded by olive groves and chestnut woods. Its castle, overlooking the Rio Sallagoni gorge, is one of the most captivating sites in the area. It can also be reached via an easy via ferrata, which is especially popular among families who enjoy hiking.
Dro, finally, is a peaceful village surrounded by vineyards and farmland, renowned for its olive oil and the famous “Dro plums.” Its territory includes the spectacular Marocche di Dro, a lunar-like landscape of glacial origin, ideal for unique hikes and educational trails.
Summer in the Alto Garda Dolomiti is a paradise for lovers of active living, nature and outdoor adventures. The hiking trails of Alto Garda, such as the renowned Garda Trek, wind through cliffs, forests, ancient villages and breathtaking viewpoints that suddenly reveal the deep blue of the lake. From circular routes connecting Riva del Garda, Arco and Nago-Torbole, to panoramic trails ascending Monte Brione, Monte Baldo, the ridges of Monte Misone and Punta Larici, every hike is a true immersion in natural beauty.
The world of biking also takes center stage: the Garda Trentino Bike Park and the Bike Arena offer trails for everyone—from beginners to expert riders—with technical single tracks, adrenaline-filled descents and family-friendly routes. Throughout the area, you’ll find convenient MTB and e-bike rental services, bike shuttles and specialized repair shops.
On the lake’s waters, water sports are a must: kite surfing in Torbole, sailing in Riva del Garda, canoeing and SUP in Ledro and unique inside-water experiences to explore the lake from new perspectives—between wind, waves and silence.
Summer is also the season of events: the calendar in Garda Trentino comes alive with music festivals, craft markets, evenings in mountain huts, food and wine events and sporting competitions such as padel tournaments, trail races and mountain bike challenges. One of the most eagerly awaited events is the Ledro Sky – Senter dele Greste, a spectacular high-altitude trail running race that follows the panoramic ridgelines above Lake Ledro.
Autumn in the Alto Garda Dolomites is an invitation to slow down, surrounded by warm colors, the scent of the forest and authentic flavors. It’s the perfect season to walk the Chestnut Trail (Sentiero dei Ricci) through the chestnut groves of Drena, take part in the Chestnut Festival (Castagnata) in Nago-Torbole or the Festa del Marrone and enjoy roasted chestnuts paired with freshly pressed wine.
For food lovers, this season is the perfect time to visit local wineries offering guided tastings of regional wines like Groppello, DOP extra virgin olive oil and other artisanal products. In the mountain huts still open—such as Rifugio Pernici or Rifugio San Pietro above Tenno—you can enjoy traditional autumn dishes like canederli (bread dumplings), polenta with goulash, hearty soups and mountain cheeses.
Clear autumn days are perfect for exploring charming villages like Canale di Tenno or Pieve di Ledro, relaxing at the Comano Thermal Baths, staying in a lake-view farm campsite, or taking part in educational activities about Trentino’s bears at the wildlife centers of the Adamello Brenta Nature Park.
In winter, the Alto Garda Dolomiti transforms into a serene, snow-covered wonderland. Just a few kilometers from the lake, easily accessible ski resorts like Monte Baldo, Monte Bondone and the Ponte Arche area offer ideal conditions for skiing and snowboarding without straying far from the valley. These locations are perfect for beginners or anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful day on the snow in a more relaxed setting.
For those who prefer a slower, quieter mountain experience, snowshoeing is the perfect way to explore the winter landscape along peaceful trails offering enchanting views. A particularly scenic route is the one from Malga Campo to Passo Nota, above Ledro: this trail is suitable even for less experienced snowshoers, winding through forests with spectacular glimpses of the valley below. Another ideal destination is Rifugio Pernici, accessible from Campi in Riva del Garda via a path that passes through larch forests and snowy clearings, offering stunning views of Lake Garda and the Brenta Dolomites.
The atmosphere becomes even more enchanting in the historic villages, thanks to the Christmas markets of Arco and Riva del Garda, where you can soak in tradition, the scent of mulled wine and local crafts. To complete the experience, there are plenty of opportunities for relaxation with wellness treatments and thermal baths—perfect for rejuvenating after a day spent outdoors.
Spring in the Alto Garda Dolomiti is a bright and fragrant season, where nature awakens and invites you to experience the area at a slow and authentic pace. An ideal walk during this time is the Circuit of Lake Tenno, an easy circular route that surrounds one of the most enchanting lakes in Trentino, famous for its turquoise color. Along the way, you can admire blooming nature, take a relaxing break by the lake’s shores and visit the medieval village of Canale di Tenno, listed among the most beautiful in Italy.
There are numerous activities organized during this period: from guided excursions to discover the local flora and fauna, to tastings of typical products, as well as cultural events and museum days. Among these, the MAG – Museo Alto Garda in Riva del Garda is worth a visit, offering exhibitions, events and journeys through art and history. For those seeking a simple walk with a view, the lakeside promenades of Riva del Garda and Torbole provide unforgettable sights, perfect for relaxing and soaking in the spring atmosphere.
