Carved into the living rock above the waters of Lake Garda, the Ponale Path is much more than a walk: it is a journey into the history and beauty of Garda Trentino.
What is now one of the most popular hikes in the upper lake area was, until the late 1980s, a roadway. Built between 1848 and 1851 as a connection between Riva del Garda and Valle di Ledro, the Ponale road was a daring piece of engineering: kilometres of carriageway carved directly into the sheer cliffs of the lake. With the opening of the modern tunnel, the old road was transformed in 2004 into a cycle and pedestrian path that now attracts thousands of visitors every year.
The old Ponale road offers breathtaking views – Photo: Marc Buhrow
The route
It starts in the area of the old hydroelectric power station at Riva, where the path branches off from the main road just before the tunnel entrance. From the first steps, the panorama opens up over the lake: the waters change colour with the light, and the mountains surrounding the northern basin of Lake Garda stand out sharply on the horizon.
The first section follows the old Austro-Hungarian military road, wide and comfortable, passing through tunnels carved into the rock and overlooking natural balconies with views that take your breath away. Along the way we encounter the remains of the Tagliata del Ponale, an imposing Austrian fortification from 1860 with tunnels and trenches dug into the mountain.
The Belvedere along the path with a view of the Garda mountains – Photo: Marc Buhrow
Continuing on, you reach the Ponale Alto Belvedere Restaurant, an ideal stopping point for a break with a view. From here, the path climbs gradually through holm-oak and pine forests to Pregasina, a small village at 530 metres above sea level dominating the lake from above – one of the most photographed views of the entire Garda region.
The terrace of the Ristorante Ponale Alto Belvedere – Photo: Marc Buhrow
A path for all
The difficulty is moderate and the gentle gradient makes the Ponale accessible even to families with children who are used to walking. The trail is shared with bicycles, which adds to the lively atmosphere but requires some care in the narrower sections. The trail can be walked all year round, although the best days are in spring and autumn, when the light and temperatures make the walk even more enjoyable.
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Characteristics
Directions
Starting from the old Hydroelectric Power Station in Riva del Garda, on Via Monte Oro. Before the road tunnel, on the left you take the path that climbs along the rocky wall above the lake.
The first section follows the old Austro-Hungarian military road carved into the living rock, with tunnels and breathtaking panoramic stretches. The path is wide and comfortable, shared with bicycles.
After about 2 km you encounter the remains of the Tagliata del Ponale, an impressive Austrian fortification from 1860 carved into the mountain.
Continuing, you reach the Ristorante Ponale Alto Belvedere, a scenic rest stop. From here three options open up: return by the same route (about 1h30), turn right towards Valle di Ledro and Lake Ledro, or turn left climbing towards Pregasina (530 m).
Once you reach Pregasina, you can return by the same path or descend to the SS240 and take bus line 214 back to Riva.
How to get there
By car: from the Rovereto Sud — Lago di Garda Nord motorway exit, follow for about 18 km towards Riva del Garda. The starting point is located near the old Hydroelectric Power Station, on Via Monte Oro.
By public transport: Riva del Garda is connected to Rovereto and Trento by intercity buses (Trentino Trasporti). In summer the lake navigation service connects Riva to all the main centers of the lake.
Where to park
Free parking available along Via Brione, just before the Hydroelectric Plant. Other paid options in the town center: Terme Romane parking (Viale Roma), Ex Stazione (Largo Medaglie d'Oro), or Ex Agraria (Via Lutti). From the town center, the trail can be reached on foot in 10-15 minutes.
Starting point coordinates
Recommended gear
Light trekking or gym shoes with non-slip soles. Bring at least 1 liter of water, sunscreen, hat and sunglasses (the path is very exposed). In spring and autumn a light windproof jacket. Trekking poles are not necessary.
Safety
The path is shared with cyclists and mountain bikers: stay in your lane and pay attention on narrow stretches. Some sections border rocky walls subject to rockfalls: do not stop under the walls and respect any closure signs. Keep children under control near unprotected scenic viewpoints. Dogs allowed on a leash. In case of emergency: 112.
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