Nature Getaway: 3 Scenic Lake Garda Hikes & Best Viewpoints

Petrol-colored water, lush meadows and a  breathtaking panorama – this is Lake Garda, one of the most popular holiday destinations in Italy. For a more detailed overview over the best places to visit and an introduction to the north shore vs the south shore, be sure to give this post a read!

With almost 160 km of shoreline surrounded by rugged mountain peaks, Italy’s largest lake is a haven for outdoor lovers. Especially mountain bikers and hikers come here all year round to find an extensive network of well-developed routes that allow for tours of all lengths and difficulty.

In this post, you’ll read about 3 of the most scenic Lake Garda hikes with spectacular views of the whole lake amidst a stunning and diverse landscape.

The Best Lake Garda Hikes & Viewpoints

1. The Classic: Monte Baldo Circuit

A medium tour, very picturesque and suitable for everyone.

Take the cable car to the top station of Monte Baldo. The ride is already a scenic adventure and takes you up 1800m in less than 15 minutes.

Walk north from the station and as soon as you leave the fence, take the path that leads uphill to your left. Along the ridge, the trail leads over beautiful meadows on the slopes of Monte Baldo.

The view over the northern part of Lake Garda is absolutely spectacular, especially on a clear day.

2. Monte Bestone Summit Tour

Short and exciting summit ascent.

Starting off the hike at the Hotel “Le Balze”, you already have a great view of Lake Garda and the Monte Baldo massif on the opposite side of the lake.

The trail meanders along the edge of the forest up to the hill, and you soon reach a forest area.

After around 20 minutes, you will arrive at two outlook peaks from which you can enjoy a magnificent view without any trees around. From here, it will be 10 minutes until you reach the summit of Monte Bestone, which even has a bell on top.

Descending, I recommend taking the trail back to the saddle and from there the broad path downhill.

3. Rock Carvings & Panoramic Views At Monte Luppia

An easy hike with stunning views and fascinating rock carvings, suitable for everyone.

The tour starts and ends at the parking lot of Punta San Vigilio Park.

First, the trail takes you along the olive groves to a lookout. Along the way, you can already enjoy stunning views of the Garda bay.

Follow the small path upwards. After a while, you’ll reach a sign that points you to the 3,000-year-old petroglyphs.

Following the round trail, you’ll later reach the summit of Mt. Luppia (418m), from where you have a breathtaking view of Lake Garda.

Through meadows and forest, you’ll get back to the narrow path with the petroglyphs and back to the parking lot.

Have you been hiking near Lake Garda in Italy? Any other tips or hiking recommendations I should add? Let me know in the comments below!