ITRS - International Trail Rating System

The ITRS is an objective way to assess trails and routes from a biker’s perspective, evaluating four aspects:

• Technical Difficulty: riding skill level needed
• Endurance: combined effect of length, uphill and downhill
• Wilderness: amount of planning required based on mobile phone reception, rescue options, water supply and wildlife
• Exposure: consequences of a fall

Discover more about the ITRS system and check the classification of this tour in the photo gallery.

Safety Tips

1. Always wear your helmet.
2. Plan your ride.
3. You share the trail with other users. Yield right of way to hikers.
4. Let your speed be determined by your experience.
5. Ride slowly on crowded trails, overtake with politeness and respect.
6. Cycle only on authorized and open trails.
7. Avoid muddy trails in order not to damage them further.
8. Respect public and private property.
9. Always be self-sufficient.
10. Do not cycle solo in remote areas.

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 starts in Arco, or more precisely at the cycle path near the Caneve car park. Following the initial directions, head toward the town centre, where there are no signposted directions. However, it is fairly easy to find the church in the centre of the town and cross ‘Piazza III Novembre’, leaving the building behind you.

At the far left of the piazza, where Via Vergolano begins, immediately turn right, taking Via del Dosso. Follow the charming lane, which crosses the historical centre of Arco, and continue on to Via Stranfora. After passing a characteristic fountain, climb a few meters and then turn left to go through the arch of the town’s ancient walls. Continue to the right passing the entrance to the Arciducale Park and then turn left. At the successive forks in the route, you will find the route 748 signposts, which lead you through the beautiful olive groves of Arco.

When you reach the main road to Padaro, keep right, and follow it to reach the small hamlet. You’ll be happy to know there is fountain here to refill your water supplies. Continue on the main road and after about 500m on your right you will see the signs leading to a trail which takes you the most challenging part of descent yet.

Initially the terrain is a little exposed, then - as anticipated - gradually becoming rougher. At the end of this section, keep right going down to the church of Santa Maria di Laghel. Turn left here and continue straight onto via Laghel for just under 1.5 km. The signposts will then lead you to turn right onto a dirt / gravel road. At the start, this section is quite flat, soon turning in to a cemented stretch of descent. Having reached the end of the descent you will see Maso Lizzone on your left. Turn right here to reach the nearby Roman Bridge of Ceniga. Do not cross the bridge but continue straight ahead to follow the quiet road of Prabi until you meet the another more modern bridge close to the centre of Arco. Here turn right onto Via Segantini, then left onto Via Ferrata. And once again you will arrive in Piazza III Novembre - the route finish point: well placed for a refreshment at one of the many local bars and cafés.

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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.

Find out how to reach Garda Trentino.

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?

• An adequate water supply according to your needs (considering temperature, possibility of refuelling and duration of the route)
• Plenty of snacks (for example, dried fruit or energy bars)
• Waterproof / Windproof jacket
• A spare top / spare socks (Descending in a sweaty garment, will make you cold).
• Suncream
• Sunglasses
• Bike gloves/mitts
• Map or GPS device
• Bike lights: best placed on your helmet or handlebars. (It is always best to be prepared)
• Bike repair kit for punctures and mechanical breakdowns
• First aid kit
• Emergency whistle

It is always advised to let someone know where you plan to go and how long you expect to be.

Emergency telephone number 112.