Cycling the Lake Garda
The Horned Lake
Lake Garda, also known as Benaco, is the largest lake in Italy sitting on the edge of the Alps roughly midway between Venice and Milan and has been a prime tourist destination for centuries.
Formed by a glacier and shaped somewhat like a pear it is narrow in the north where it is ringed by high mountains and widens in the south onto the Venetian plains. Ringed by 25 beautiful villages as well as many castles and fortresses its crystal clear waters, filled with the reflections of the surrounding peaks are famous around the globe.
Facts
History
Formed at the end of the last Ice Age the giant Lake Garda sits at the junction of three Italian regions, Lombardy, Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige. The name Garda dates back to the 8th century and is said to be evolved from the German word ‘warda’ meaning ‘place of guard’ or place of safety’.
Cycling Classic
The Lake and its surrounding towns and villages have played backdrop to the Giro’ d’Italia many times most recently in 2024. This is hardly surprising as Garda offers some of the most spectacular scenery in all Italy so what better backdrop to place the peloton in to advertise this to the world.
Climate
The shores of Lake Garda enjoy a temperate micro-climate which is generally mild however the winters can be quite cold. Summers are hot with highs of around 35 C and quite sunny, but there are also quite frequent thunderstorms because of the thermal contrasts between the mountains and the plain. Snow is rare so the roads generally remain open all year round.
Terrain
The Terrain surrounding Lake Garda has something for every ride from the flat plains in the south to the undulating road that circles the lake to the multitude of mountain passes that can be accessed to the North. With the many routes up Monte Bondone and over the imposing Monte Baldo whether you crave altitude or want to stay on the flat there is something for everyone.
Points of Interest
Cycling Path
When the Lake Garda cycle path is complete a dedicated cycle path measuring 140km in length will circumnavigate the entire lake featuring suspended sections and tunnels to create a truly spectacular experience.
Via Scannupia
To the north-east of Lake Garda, rising out of a village called Besenello is the infamous Via Scannupia which is reportedly the steepest paved road in Europe and proudly boasts a 45% gradient sign.
Islands
The lake has numerous small islands and five main ones, the largest being Isola del Garda, where, in 1220 St. Francis of Assisi founded a monastery.
Salò Republic
The town of Salò on the lake’s western shore was where Mussolini established the capital of his Italian Social Republic in 1943 and from where German military operations in the area were coordinated.
Adige Valley Climbs
If you are looking for great cycling climbs close to Guarda then head for Monte Bondone, the Passo Duron, the aptly named Monte Velo or any of the multitude of amazing roads that rise out of the Adige valley.
"Poets, politicians, divas and dictators, they’ve all been drawn to the captivating waters of Lake Garda."
Why Choose Lake Garda for Your Next Cycling Vacation?
Lake Garda is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, and cycling is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in its breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're seeking leisurely rides along the scenic Lake Garda Cycle Path or testing your endurance on the challenging ascents of Monte Baldo and Monte Velo, this region offers unparalleled variety for cyclists of all levels.
With a mild climate, diverse terrain, and picturesque lakeside villages, a Lake Garda cycling holiday is an ideal choice year-round. Avoid the crowds of Peschiera del Garda and Desenzano del Garda and explore hidden gems in the northern hills near Riva del Garda, where some of the best cycling routes Lake Garda has to offer await.
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