From Riva del Garda to Valle di Ledro: a day on the Ponale Road
One of the most scenic routes on Lake Garda to be explored on foot or by bike
No doubt about it, if you are looking for breathtaking views and panoramas with unreal colors during your stay at Lake Garda, you need to undertake the Ponale Road.
Built in the mid-19th century based on the daring project of Giacomo Cis who managed with difficulty to convince the authorities of the need for a path that would connect the Lake Garda’s Trentino shore with Valle di Ledro, the Ponale Road climbs up as if it were suspended above Lake Garda and, today, it is one of the most significant landscape and historical features of the area.
Since 1891 and throughout the last century, even cars and buses have passed through its sharp turns but, following its closure for the construction of a tunnel in the 1990s, in 2004 it was decided to transform it into an evocative cycle-pedestrian route. Find out more about the Ponale Road.
By bike or on foot: what’s better?
Both solutions are ideal, however, the slower pace of a trek on foot gives you the opportunity to admire all the details and get lost in the blue of the panorama below. You don’t need to be particularly fit; the climb is gentle and is also suitable for families with children.
Where does the Ponale Road start?
After passing the main square of Riva del Garda and its historic hydroelectric power plant, the route begins just before the tunnel that leads to Limone del Garda. Leaving the asphalt behind you, just follow the D01 trail sign towards Ledro to cross the path carved into the rock.
Please remember: Going up towards Valle di Ledro, pedestrians must keep to the left while bikers to the right. Returning towards Lake Garda, you will have to do the opposite.
Don’t miss the Tagliata del Ponale, which is what remains of the ancient Austrian fortification dug entirely into the mountain. Unfortunately, its narrow galleries and underground tunnels can only be visited during unique events, but at the third tunnel you can go up to Forte Teodosio to admire the spectacular view of the bay!
Just a couple of kilometers from the starting point, you will find the first stop on this route, the Ponale Alto Belvedere restaurant-bar, from where you can see the enchanting waterfall below. From here, you will have three options: keep right on the winding asphalt road (recommended if you are on a bike), go left and take the mule track that crosses the woods and the small village of Biacesa, or stop here to enjoy a relaxing time.
If you decide to go on, both alternatives will take you directly to the shores of Lake Ledro and its iconic stilt houses. At this point, the large green park where you can have a picnic and the crystal-clear waters will be an irresistible temptation.
The Ponale Road is not a circular route, but you can decide to follow the first leg of this second stretch passing through the woods and then returning easily via the asphalt road. Anyway, the complete route from Riva del Garda to Lake Ledro and back is approximately 20 kilometres.
For another trekking experience in the heart of Lake Garda, read our story on the Rocca di Garda route.
Difficulty level of the Ponale Road
By undertaking this trail, it is important to be aware of the cyclists who usually travel along it at high speed. Always pay attention and try to keep a safe distance from bikes to avoid accidents. The route is quite long, and it takes about three hours each way on foot. However, with the right pair of footwear and a good supply of water, you will not meet any difficulties: Follow the general road safety rules, respect other people on the route and you will enjoy a fantastic trip in the open air without problems. For a lighter hike accessible to all, the most scenic stretch of the Ponale Road is just 3.5 kilometers each way.
When to undertake the Ponale Road
This hike offers a unique experience between nature and history. Being particularly exposed and without shelter from the sun in the part overlooking Lake Garda, we recommend doing this excursion in spring or fall, avoiding the hottest days of summer. In particular, the foliage season is characterized by vivid and bright colors that make the panoramic views of the landscape even more stunning. Especially in the low season and due to any maintenance work, it is advisable to ensure that the path is open and accessible.
Looking for more spectacular sights during the foliage season on Lake Garda? Read this story.