A loop from Lago di Garda to the Dolomites with amazing panoramas
A scenic route free of technical difficulties, the trail length renders it suitable for trained trekkers.
It begins at the rolling meadows of Passo Bordala, in Val di Gresta. Follow the little road to the right of the restaurant of the same name, with the sign Cima Bassa, until you come upon trail (sentiero) 623 to your left, which will lead you, along its steep curves, to the ridge that separates the Adige valley from that of Sarca.
From here, take trail 617 to rifugio Marchetti and to the nearby peak of Monte Stivo, through mountain pines and enchanting views, from Lago di Garda to the Dolomites. Then, head down the mountain’s opposite slope following trail 608 to Le Prese and then trail 608bis to Sant'Antonio. The little road that branches off to the left, passing the little Santo church, will lead you back to the point of departure, through splendid woods full of beech and spruce trees. It is not uncommon to encounter a goat-antelope and a black grouse along the way.
For more information on routes, services (guides, mountain huts, shops etc.) and hiking friendly accommodation: Garda Trentino - +39 0464 554444
Safety Tips
1. Choose itineraries that suit your physical and technical abilities. Collect information about the area you are visiting and the trail’s conditions and get a detailed trekking map.
2. Wear clothes and take equipment that suit the difficulty and length of your tour. Keep emergency gear in your rucksack, including first aid supplies.
3. Do not go walking alone in the mountains. In any case, tell someone where you are going and report back on returning.
4. Look at the weather forecast before setting off and always keep an eye on the weather.
5. In case of doubt, go back. It is better to give up than risk bad weather or face difficulties beyond your strength, ability and equipment.
6. Do not leave marked paths and do not take shortcuts.
7. All described walks are in a natural environment and therefore their use is at your own risk.
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 hike starts from the meadows of Passo Bordala in Val di Gresta. Follow the small road to the right of the restaurant of the same name, signposted Cima Bassa, until you meet path 623 on the left, which will take you up to the ridge separating the Adige and Sarca valleys.
From here, take path 617 to the Marchetti refuge and the nearby peak of Monte Stivo. Then descend on the opposite side of the mountain following path 608 to the Le Prese locality and then 608bis to the Sant'Antonio locality. Take the little road that branches off to the left here, passing by the little church of the Saint, then at the crossroads immediately after the locality of Gombino follow to the left again until you reach the starting point.
The Gresta Valley area can be reached from the other centres of Garda Trentino by the extra-urban bus line 332 (Rovereto - Mori - Riva del Garda - Arco - Bolognano).
Once you reach the stop in Mori, we suggest you continue with a shuttle that will take you as far as Passo Bordala.
Park Passo Bordala
You need to wear the right clothing and take the proper gear when you go hiking in the mountains. Even on relatively short easy outings make sure to take all you need so you don't run into trouble if things take an unexpected turn, for example a storm blows up or you have a sudden drop in energy levels.
What should you take when you go on a hike?
Your rucksack (for a day trip a 25/30L capacity should do) should contain:
Make sure you're wearing the right footwear for the trail and season. The going can get rough and rocky underfoot and a pair of hiking boots will protect you from sprains. When wet, a grassy slope, rocky slab or steep trail can be dangerous unless you are wearing the proper footwear.
And finally... don't forget to bring your camera! You'll need it to capture the stunning views you come across all over Garda Trentino. And if you like, you can share your memories with us at #GardaTrentino.
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