Lake Garda Getaway: Cycling Italy's Largest Lake | Hidden Gems Cycling Escape
Explore the outdoor Mecca of Lake Garda on this 5-day cycling tour, discovering its coastal roads, panoramic viewpoints, and hidden corners. Ride along shimmering shores and quiet backroads while enjoying boutique accommodations, flexible daily routes, and seamless support for a truly immersive lakeside cycling experience.
Bike Tour Overview
DURATION
STARTING PRICE
A cycling journey offering a plethora of variety and beauty along the shimmering shores of Lake Garda. Starting from Verona you will ride to the charming lakeside town of Malcesine, your base for the next two nights. In addition to it's spectacular setting, Malcesine is also the perfect take off point for lakeside rides, gondola trips up to Monte Baldo, as well as ferry rides on Italy's largest lake.
After ample exploration of the Northeastern end of Lake Garda, a ferry ride will bring you to the opposite side of the lake for more spectacular lakeshore riding Southward to the resort town of Desenzano del Garda for your final two nights. A last loop ride that passes through Peschiera del Garda and the Mincio river bike path rounds out this Lake Garda cycling adventure.
What's Included in this Trip
- Pick-up and transfer from the airport to the pick up location on the trip start date or the day before the trip start date
- 4 nights accommodation in select boutique hotels including breakfast
- Daily on-trip van support
- All on-trip luggage transfers
- Exclusive access to the CyclingHero Companion App with daily multiple route options and local insights
- Access to Hammerhead Karoo bike computer with pre-installed CyclingHero route options
- Support with set-up of rental bike, or assembly/disassembly of own bike
- Orientation meeting on day 1
- All on-trip transfers
- Bike box storage for the entire duration of the trip
- Post trip drop off at the airport (day of trip end or following day)
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"This trip was perfectly organized for our group. The cycling route choices accommodated cyclists looking for a casual ride and those looking for a brisk club-like workout."
"This is the second time I have done the Maratona with CyclingHero and I wouldn't hesitate to use them again. Their passion for cycling in beautiful parts of Italy shines through."
"The Maratona and Stelvio Bormio Gavia extension was a bucket list trip and so glad that CYCLINGHERO were there to guide and support. The CH team are Italy Cycling experts."
"Best cycling tour/trip I have ever taken! Cycling Hero nailed every aspect for having a wonderful time. The DOLOMITES!!! Most beautiful mountains I have ever seen, let alone ridden through."
"Bob and Caterina went above and beyond, providing not only the essentials but also a personal touch that made the journey even more special. This trip to Italy will always hold a special place."
"Bob and Caterina were wonderful and the trip exceeded my expectations. The support was fantastic and they did an amazing job of adapting to some crazy weather interruptions."
"Bob & Caterina's support was top-notch and we rarely had to worry about anything. The CyclingHero app is fantastic for communications, routes, and after bike recommendations."
"The CyclingHero team provided exceptional customer service from pickup in Treviso to the drop off at the Venice airport. Overall, I highly recommend CyclingHero to participate to Maratona."
"Using the CyclingHero app to plan our routes every day was awesome. It was like 'choose your own adventure.' But best of all, the trip made me a better and more confident cyclist."
"Bob and Caterina are passionate and it shows. They have extensive knowledge of the routes and region. They provide the right balance of support and self-riding. Highly recommend."
Day-by-Day Cycling Itinerary
Gateway to the Lake – Verona to Malcesine
This scenic ride from Verona’s historic centre along a dedicated bike path is a great way to ease into things. The route meanders past charming villages and vineyards before reaching the shores of Lake Garda. Cycle along the lake’s edge, passing through picturesque towns to the medieval lakeside gem of Malcesine. For those seeking a bit more of a challenge, ascend to Castion Veronese for panoramic views of Italy's largest lake before dropping down into Malcesine.
Lakefront Escapes and Alpine Panoramas
Discover the northern shores of Lake Garda, beginning your day with a ride to Riva del Garda, a mecca for outdoor sports enthusiasts. From here opt for more serene routes through Ceniga or up to Lago di Tenno, or go all in and tackle the Monte Baldo loop. Take time to explore Malcesine’s cobbled streets or ascend Monte Baldo by cable car for a different perspective on the lake and surrounding peaks.
Across the lake and along the coast to Desenzano del Garda
The morning starts with a relaxing lake cruise to the western coast of Lake Garda. From Gargnano you will remount the bikes and continue South along the lake to the historic town of Saló. From Saló the route leaves the lakeside and climbs up to follow a stretch of the Valtenesi bike path before descending back to the lake and arriving at the small port town of Desenzano del Garda. Spend the afternoon strolling the Lungolago lakeside walking path or soaking in the sun.
Loop ride through Peschiera del Garda and along the Mincio bike path
The ride today begins with a visit to the walled port town of Peschiera del Garda. From here the route meets the Mincio bike path, an amazing stretch of cycling heaven that leads all the way to Mantua. The route turns back before reaching Mantua and returns along quiet country roads of the Garda moraine hills until reaching the shores of Lake Garda once again at Desenzano.
Arrivederci Lago di Garda
A last morning lakeside walk and its time to say goodbye to the Lake Garda for your next destination.
* Click Book Now to view specific dates and prices
Why Travel With CyclingHero
Life is busy. Your vacation should fit your schedule and preferences. As your locally-based cycling concierge, we will customise an unforgettable trip for you in spectacular Northern Italy, where we live and ride every day.
A good night’s sleep and a proper breakfast are fundamental to an enjoyable day of riding. But a great place to stay is also about connecting with where you are, and having an authentic experience.
Let Us Help You Create the Perfect Cycling Adventure
Tell us about your dream tour, and we’ll send you customised recommendations. Let us show you why CyclingHero is one of the best cycling tour companies in Italy for avid cyclists.