Alto Garda Bresciano Park

Established in 1989 and spanning over 38,000 hectares, the Alto Garda Bresciano Park is a protected natural area encompassing nine municipalities, stretching from Salò to Limone sul Garda and including the charming inland valleys of Magasa and Valvestino. If you are looking for adventure, the excursions within the park offer an endless network of trails connecting the “Riviera dei Limoni” (Lemon Riviera) to the peaks of Monte Caplone (1,975 m). In just a few kilometers, you can transition from a Mediterranean climate to high-altitude alpine pastures.

Among the most iconic experiences in the region, driving or walking along the Strada della Forra will lead you through canyons carved into the rock toward the villages of Tremosine and Tignale—authentic natural terraces where rural history and Lake Garda’s panoramas merge into a single, unforgettable emotion.

Discover 4 Selected Trails

Useful Information

To fully enjoy the wonders of the area, the ideal starting point is the Visitor Center located in Prabione di Tignale, where the Park Museum offers a comprehensive overview of local geology and traditions.

While the coastal strip is accessible year-round, excursions toward the peaks and high-altitude pastures are primarily recommended from May to October, when the trails are snow-free and the alpine flora is in full bloom.

Can I bring my dog to the Alto Garda Bresciano Park?

Yes, dogs are allowed, but they must always be kept on a leash so as not to disturb the wildlife.

Where exactly is the Alto Garda Bresciano Park located?

The park occupies the western shore of Lake Garda, in the province of Brescia. It spans over 38,000 hectares across nine municipalities: Salò, Gardone Riviera, Toscolano Maderno, Gargnano, Tignale, Tremosine sul Garda, Limone sul Garda, Magasa, and Valvestino. The territory rises rapidly from the shores of the lake up to 1,975 meters at the summit of Monte Caplone.

What are the absolute must-sees in the Alto Garda Park?

The Park offers iconic experiences ranging from historic villages to wild peaks. If it is your first visit, you cannot miss the centers of Limone and Tignale with their ancient lemon houses, or the famous Terrazza del Brivido (Shudder Terrace) in Tremosine for a breathtaking panorama directly overlooking the lake.

I motociclisti troveranno il loro paradiso percorrendo la Strada della Forra, una meraviglia ingegneristica incastonata nella roccia, mentre gli amanti della MTB hanno nel Passo Tremalzo una meta leggendaria per i suoi percorsi militari.

Motorcyclists will find their paradise riding along the Strada della Forra, an engineering marvel carved into the rock, while mountain bike enthusiasts have a legendary destination in Passo Tremalzo, famous for its military trails.

For expert trekkers, the territory offers high-altitude challenges toward Monte Caplone and Monte Tombea—treasure troves of rare biodiversity—or vertical paths toward Monte Comer and Monte Bestone, which offer the most spectacular and wild views of the entire Lake Garda basin.

What kind of flora and fauna can be found in the park?

The Park is a unique mosaic of biodiversity, where Mediterranean and Alpine species coexist: it transitions from the lemon houses and olive groves of the coast to chestnut groves, beech forests, and high-altitude spruces. Among the most precious plant species, the Saxifraga tombeanensis stands out—a rare flower endemic to the Park's peaks. The fauna is equally rich: in addition to red deer and chamois, it is possible to spot the golden eagle soaring over a territory where the lake ecosystem meets that of the Alps.

Are the park's trails safe for everyone?

The trail network consists of official, well-marked paths, but safety always depends on choosing a route that matches your experience level.

Many high-altitude itineraries are exposed and require technical footwear, as well as close attention to the weather, which can change suddenly in the summer.

If you are traveling with children or looking for easy walks, the options around Tignale and the lakeside promenades are the safest and most accessible. To help you plan effectively, the 'Outdoor Active' app provides precise information on recommended equipment and timely alerts for sections that require extra caution, ensuring a mindful and protected experience in the heart of nature

How does the Park's app work?

To find your way, you can use OutdoorActive, Europe's leading outdoor app. Download it for free and search for 'Parco Alto Garda Bresciano' to access official trails tracked with GPS, complete with maps, elevation profiles, and difficulty levels. The routes are constantly updated and reliable; however, remember that to view maps offline (which is essential in areas with no signal), a Premium subscription is required; otherwise, an active network connection is needed.

4 Unmissable Trails

1.The Belvedere Path (Croce di Salò)

Starting from Salò, this itinerary is the perfect introduction for first-time visitors. The trail winds through olive groves and vineyards, gradually climbing toward the “Corna,” where the Salò Cross stands. From here, the view opens up over the entire gulf, the Rocca di Manerba, and Isola del Garda. It is a short but intense route, ideal for those with limited time who don’t want to miss a breathtaking panorama.

Ideal for: First-time visitors and photography enthusiasts.

Difficulty: T2 (Easy) |Distance: 1.7 km | Duration: 1h 10m | Elevation gain: 326 m | Max altitude: 490 m

2. The Paper Mill Valley (Valle delle Cartiere)

Starting from Toscolano Maderno, this is one of the most fascinating and popular itineraries in the park. The path follows the Toscolano stream, venturing into a striking gorge where lush nature coexists with the archaeological remains of ancient paper factories. This mostly flat route is suitable for everyone, allowing visitors to see the Paper Museum and enjoy the river’s coolness even in mid-summer. It perfectly exemplifies how human activity and the natural environment can merge into a unique landscape.

Ideal for: Families, history lovers, and those looking for a relaxing walk.

Difficulty: Easy | Distance: 2.1 km | Duration: 40m | Elevation gain: 62 m | Max altitude: 146 m

3. From the Pra dela Fam Lemon House to Gardola

This historic trail starts from the Gardesana state road, specifically at the port of Tignale near the Pra dela Fam Lemon House. This is the ancient road that once connected the lake to the mountain villages. Climbing a steep mule track through centuries-old olive trees, you will pass through the village of Oldesio until you reach Gardola, the main center of Tignale. It is a vertical route offering stunning views, ideal for those who want to experience the contrast between the water and the mountains.

Ideal for: Local history buffs, nature lovers, and those seeking an authentic village experience.

Difficulty: T2 (Easy) | Distance: 2.6 km | Duration: 1h 35m | Elevation gain: 529 m | Max altitude: 569 m

4. Through the villages and hills of Gardone Riviera

A charming urban and rural route that winds through the heart of the “Garden City.” You will walk among period buildings, ancient historic villages such as Morgnaga and Gardone Sopra, and splendid panoramic viewpoints that overlook the Vittoriale degli Italiani and the deep blue of Lake Garda.

Ideal for: Architecture enthusiasts, those fond of Belle Époque charm, and anyone looking for a leisurely cultural walk.

Difficulty: T1 (Easy) | Distance: 4.8 km | Duration: 1h 35m | Elevation gain: 128 m | Max altitude: 191 m

For all information and maps, please visit the official website.