Among the villages and hills of Gardone Riviera

Gardone Riviera is more than just its famous lakefront: the hills above it hide stone villages, ancient churches and terraced vineyards that tell a thousand-year history. This itinerary takes you to discover that lesser-known Gardone, far from the Riviera mundanity, where time seems to flow more slowly.

Departure is from the village of Morgnaga, with its rural architecture in local stone typical of the Lake Garda hinterland. Just beyond is the 15th-century Church of Sant’Antonio Abate, a sober and authentic example of Brescian sacred art. The path continues to Gardone Sopra, the upper part of the municipality, where the parish church of San Nicola di Bari – 18th century – dominates the small center with its Baroque facade.

The most awaited stop is the Vittoriale degli Italiani, the residence-monument that Gabriele d’Annunzio wanted to build as a permanent setting for his life and death. The park, the ships embedded in the terraces, the mausoleum: everything contributes to the unique atmosphere, suspended between grandeur and estrangement.

Past the Vittoriale, the route stretches into the Valetta di Fraole, a corner of countryside almost hidden among historic vineyards and dry stone walls. The return is via Via dei Colli and the Paul Heyse Promenade, with views of the lake that gently return to the lakefront elevation.

Practical info: light hiking shoes recommended. Vittoriale is fee-based (separate ticket). Low elevation gain but fairly long route.

Points of interest

• Village of Morgnaga
• Church of St. Anthony Abbot (15th cent.)
• Gardone Sopra
• Church of St. Nicholas of Bari
• Vittoriale degli Italiani
• Fraole Valley Park
• Historic Vineyards
• Paul Heyse Promenade

Source: official itinerary sheet on visitparcoaltogarda.it (Ente Parco Alto Garda Bresciano). Technical data, GPX tracks and updated info on official website.