Feel the Mediterranean breeze by Lake Garda
From the beach to green footpaths: 6 experiences, from sport to relaxation
In Trentino, you can feel Lake Garda even before you see it. Close your eyes as you are approaching Riva del Garda, Arco or Torbole sul Garda and take a deep breath. Carried on the gentle breeze will be the aroma of olive trees, which you might be surprised to find nestled up here in the mountains at such a great distance from the sea.
One of the secrets to the Trentino side of Lake Garda lies in its Mediterranean microclimate, which contrasts magnificently with the fjord-like appearance of the towering walls of rock on either side of the water. This breathtaking blend is at the heart of a wealth of landscapes, fragrances and experiences. In the morning, take your pick from a range of beaches with great facilities. Relax on pebbles or soft grass by the shore and take a refreshing dip to cool down. All of the beaches are supervised, safe and spacious, making them ideal for children. In the afternoon, go for a ride along a cycle path or a walk along a mountain trail.
In the morning, you can enjoy all the amenities of one of our beaches, relax in the sun and play sports: Lake Garda is a top destination for sailing and windsurfing enthusiasts, as well as having a lot to offer for lovers of SUP and canoeing. Then, in the evening, loosen up your muscles on a cycle path or with a stroll along one of the many hiking trails, to enjoy a view of the lake from above.
There are plenty of ways to find a fresh sense of physical and mental well-being during a holiday by Lake Garda. The mild yet cool climate is bound to put you in a good mood, while your body can benefit from both exercise and great food, thus ensuring that you are ready for more of the experiences that we would like to recommend.
Revel in refreshing sport on the lake
Sailing and windsurfing enthusiasts from all over Europe flock to Lake Garda to make the most of the winds that blow constantly on the water, such as the Ora. However, we recommend that you try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). As well as helping you to unwind and get some gentle exercise, it is a marvellous way to explore the lake and get to the Ponale waterfall: a natural wonder that is only accessible by water.
Feel great after a bike ride
Cycling is a wonderful way to stay in shape and it never fails to raise the spirits: what could be better than the feeling of the wind blowing through your hair as you up the pace a little? In the Lake Garda area there are cycling routes to suit people of all standards and ages, as well as bikes of all kinds, including e-bikes: from flat cycle paths to routes with big slopes.
Breathe mountain air
On the beach in the morning, to fill up on vitamin D, and in the mountains in the afternoon, to breathe the fresh air of woods. Many paths traverse the areas of Lake Garda, Valle di Ledro, Comano and Valle dei Laghi. From the easier (always to be tackled with suitable footwear) to the more demanding ones. And if you get the hang of it, don’t miss the Gardatrek or Ledro Trek trails, to be completed over several days with overnight stops in mountain huts.
The scent of villages
If walking in the woods is good for the body, exploring the villages of the hinterland is a panacea for the spirit. Not far from Lake Garda, nestled in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Alpi Ledrensi and Judicaria, stands the medieval village of Canale di Tenno; if you move in the direction of the mountains, not far from Terme di Comano, you can discover the rural character of Rango. Both hamlets are on the list of Italy’s Most Beautiful Medieval Villages: a great reason to discover them!
Take it steady and enjoy the Dolce Vita
One of the keys to individual well-being is taking your time over things and really savouring the little pleasures in life. For example, you could watch the sunset from the little harbour of Riva del Garda with a glass of chilled, sparkling Trentodoc wine. Or you could take a stroll through the streets of the old town centre, slowly wandering from one shop to another before you savour the culinary delights of Garda at dinnertime.
Cuisine that blends the lake and the mountains
The dishes served in the Lake Garda area bring out the best of the gentle contrast between the lake atmosphere and rich mountain aromas. They range from fish caught in the lake to thin slices of soft, light carne salada (salted beef) complemented by local extra virgin olive oil, from the northernmost olive groves in the world. Round off your meal with a glass of Vino Santo: a type of raisin wine that is a real must in this part of the world and is protected under the Slow Food Presidia scheme.
So many things to experience
Aperitif on a sailboat, a walk at sunset, on a mountainside overlooking the lake, a picnic on the grass complete with fully laden basket, these are just some of the Garda Trentino Experiences that you can enjoy this summer. You can find them all here!
