A short ride, within everybody's reach, that touches upon the three communes of la “Busa”: the local dialect name for the land between Riva del Garda, Torbole and Arco.
This itinerary, with a length of 16 kilometres and an altitude difference of around only 200 meters is suited to a range of abilities.
The term “busa” identifies the basin of land at the very North of Lake Garda: between Riva del Garda, Torbole and Arco. The itinerary forms a loop, offering a diverse range of view points and refreshment stops.
If you would like to do the route with children then please be aware that: The only really challenging feature of this ride, from a physical point of view, is the climb from Torbole to Nago: around 1.5 km in length, with an average gradient of 10%, and constant sun exposure. It is also recommended to pay particular attention to the two main road crossings.
Safety Tips
This information is subject to inevitable variations, so none of these indications are absolute. It is not entirely possible to avoid giving inexact or imprecise information, given how quickly environmental and weather conditions can change. For this reason, we decline any responsibility for changes which the user may encounter. In any case, it is advisable to check environment and weather conditions before setting out.
The proposed route departs from Arco heading toward Riva del Garda, then Torbole, and Nago, finally returning to Arco. However, this ride can actually be started from any of the famous towns.
However, for the purposes of description, we shall start the route from Arco, or more specifically from the cycle path that runs along the Sarca river, in the vicinity of the car park at Caneve. Start by taking the cycle path in the direction of Torbole, as indicated by the route 766 signage. Cross the bridge and continue to follow the river in the same direction, just on the opposite bank. After approximately 2km, pass a large industrial complex on your right, where you will find yourself alongside the main road SR 249. The sight of a kiosk ahead is your sign to leave the cycle track and cross the road to enter Via dei Sabbioni, on the right - close to the intersection. At your first opportunity turn left on to the quiet road and, guided by the signs cross the countryside through the locality of San Giorgio. Continue straight on the tranquil secondary roads, crossing the villages of Grotta and Sant'Alessandro, to reach the marked stop sign at Via Sant'Alessandro. Cross the road here to take the cycle path on the other side following it to Porto San Nicolò. Cross the road here, keeping to the left through the car park, continuing to follow the cycle path which runs along the Garda lakeside towards Torbole. Traverse the River Sarca once again, but this time at its mouth to continue alongside the beaches of Torbole. It must be added that this stretch is, incredibly popular in the summer: frequented by beach goers, and pedestrians of all ages. So please ride safely and patiently.
When passing the old port, it is clearly indicated that cyclists must dismount for a few metres, near to Piazzetta Lietzmann (easily recognisable due to it being opposite the only church in front of the lake). Next, leaving the lakeside behind, take Via Benaco to your left, and when you reach the stop sign, keep right to follow the main road for a few dozen metres. Cross the road and turn immediately left into Piazza Goethe. From the side of the small square, keeping left you shall find the start of the climb to Nago.
The first few metres are certainly the hardest, but just keep pushing until you reach the end of the road, indicated by an old fort. Once at the top, take a moment to catch your breath and admire the beautiful vista behind you.
Once in Nago head towards the nearby roundabout, however do not enter it. Instead take the small, steep road to the left, descending past a car park. Continue on this road and after a short stretch on cement, a gravel road begins: where initially the terrain is rather unstable. Carry on, to eventually meet the main road and, whilst paying close attention, cross it to take the cement road ahead. From here there is a descent, which alternates between concrete and gravel to arrive in the small village of Prato Saiano. Following the signs for the various crossroads, pedal through various crops to arrive at Arco. After passing the fire brigade barracks, you should arrive at a roundabout, follow it around to the left, rejoining the cycle path to arrive at your original point of departure.
The main towns in Garda Trentino - Riva del Garda, Arco, Torbole sul Garda, Nago – are connected by several urban and intercity bus lines which will take you to the starting point of tours or in the immediate surroundings.
You can also get to Riva del Garda and Torbole sul Garda by the public ferry service.
Up-to-date information on timetables and routes.
Parking in Caneve (5 minutes walk to the town centre).
Paid parking: Foro Boario, near the bridge (Via Caproni Maini) or the post office (Via Monache).
Riding your bike requires specific clothing and equipment, even for relatively short and easy trips. It is always better to be prepared… e.g. for bad weather or a sudden drop in your energy levels. The unexpected things are part of the fun!
Remember to thoroughly evaluate the type of route you plan on doing, the locations you intend to cross and the current season. Has it been raining? Attention: The paths may be slippery and require more caution.
What do I need to bring on my bike tour?
It is always advised to let someone know where you plan to go and how long you expect to be.
Emergency telephone number 112.
Distance | 58,3 km | |
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Activity time | 9 h 50 min | |
Altitude difference (+) | 2.632 m | |
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Distance | 1,1 km | |
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Activity time | 05 min | |
Altitude difference (+) | 1 m | |
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Distance | 15,6 km | |
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Activity time | 1 h 30 min | |
Altitude difference (+) | 257 m | |
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Distance | 34,1 km | |
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Activity time | 6 h 25 min | |
Altitude difference (+) | 1.350 m | |
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Distance | 29,8 km | |
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Activity time | 5 h 00 min | |
Altitude difference (+) | 972 m | |
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Distance | 44,3 km | |
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Activity time | 6 h 00 min | |
Altitude difference (+) | 1.690 m | |
Status |
open
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Official website of Garda Dolomiti – Azienda per il Turismo S.p.A. - C.F. e P. IVA 01855030225
Cap. Soc. € 600.000,00 I.V. - REA N. 182762