The "Ciclovia del Garda" cycle path will soon make it possible to cycle all the way around Lake Garda. While some sections are already passable, others are still being planned or are under discussion.
Lake Garda is set to become even more attractive for active vacationers; a cycle path around 140 kilometers long will make it possible to cycle all the way around Italy's largest lake. There are still sections of a cycle network around the lake. Completion of the circular route is planned for the next few years.
The "Ciclovia del Garda" or "Garda by Bike" project aims to significantly expand the cycle network. The plan is to create a circular route that integrates existing paths and adds new sections. The "EuroVelo 7" will also be integrated into the network. However, delays in construction and planning changes have accompanied the project for years.
One particularly impressive section is between Limone sul Garda and Riva del Garda. The approximately 2.5-kilometer-long route was opened in 2018 and runs directly along steep rock faces - in some places even on structures that run above the water. Cyclists can enjoy a clear view of the lake while riding high above the waterline.
Another section was opened at the end of March 2025. This begins in the south of Riva's city limits in Ponale Street and ends at Rivani beach. Instead of along the water, cyclists usually ride through old and new tunnels and through elaborate galleries built to protect against falling rocks. Parts of the galleries are painted with art in the Viennese Art Nouveau style and offer views of the lake.
Another section was completed on the eastern side of the lake in April 2026. Running from Punta San Vigilio to Torri del Benaco, the approx. 5-kilometer route runs along Lake Garda. Benches and pillars with bicycle service are freely available.
A new section was also opened in the Verona area: Since 2026, the path near Torri del Benaco has ensured that cyclists and motorists are better separated in a heavily frequented area.
Large sections of the future circular route already exist as independent cycle paths or run along side roads with little traffic. The route between Riva and Torbole, for example, is particularly suitable for less experienced cyclists.
On the eastern shore there are already usable sections between Malcesine and Brenzone and further south towards Bardolino and Lazise. In the south, part of the "EuroVelo 7" between Lazise and Peschiera del Garda will also be integrated into the circuit.
Some routes continue on existing country and secondary roads, for example between Torbole and Malcesine or Brenzone and Torri del Benaco. The section between Desenzano del Garda and Gardone Riviera remains particularly challenging, as there is currently no continuous cycling infrastructure and cyclists have to share the traffic with cars.
The expansion of the project is controversial in many places. Criticisms include costs, safety aspects and interference with nature. Particularly affected is a 30-kilometer section between Limone and Gardone Riviera, the construction of which has been halted. Due to the difficult topography along the Gardesana road, a direct cycle route will no longer be implemented there; instead, it is planned that cyclists will be transported onwards by ferry in future.
There are also delays on the east bank of the province of Verona. The main focus here is on issues of landscape integration and approval procedures.
The completion of the overall project is therefore still delayed; a complete connection of the approximately 140-kilometer route is currently being targeted for the coming years.
