Bicycle rides symbolize freedom and well-being, combining physical activity with the discovery of new landscapes, which are also good for the mind.
For this reason, many people love to travel around Lake Garda with their bicycles, organizing tours that can include villages and the shores of Lake Garda.
Personally, I’m a big bicycle enthusiast and one of those mountain bike enthusiasts (I also have a road bike) who spend at least 2 hours cycling in the Garda hinterland every weekend. The desire to go for a bike ride along the lake is certainly facilitated by the bike paths in this area, among which stands out the one that goes from Peschiera to Riva – quite a journey!
The distance
This is a route that challenges physical effort but also enhances appreciation for the scenic beauty of the lake – the ideal backdrop for those who want to go on a bike tour of Lake Garda, on the Venetian shore.
The area surrounding Lake Garda is vast, but this cycling path covers the eastern stretch, the Veronese shore. Starting from Peschiera, south of an imaginary meridian line that crosses the lake, you’ll reach the town of Garda at the end of a beautiful inlet.
The route starts from the center of Peschiera and then continues on the Gardesana road to Lazise, passing through Cisano, Bardolino, and finally heading to Garda and Punta San Vigilio.
The distance from Peschiera to Garda is about 20 kilometers, and you can complete it in nearly 1 hour (depending on the type of bike and your training, of course). If you’re ready, hop on your bike and pedal along the lakeshore, following this cycling path on the Veronese side!
The Cycling Path from Peschiera
From Peschiera, you can quickly access the cycling path through the city gates.
This is a stretch of lakeside path, which in some places turns into off-road terrain. Always keep in mind that you can dismount and enjoy a walk along the shoreline with your bike beside you; don’t miss this opportunity as it’s one of the most beautiful lakeside routes in my opinion.
You’ll continue towards Gardaland, and here, there is a short section that coincides with the busy main road. You’ll then return to the cycling path heading towards Garda, passing through a vineyard along the lakeshore and continuing along winding roads.
From here, you can continue off the cycling path by first passing through the hamlet of Pacengo and then the historic center of Lazise, with its fortified walls. Here, especially during the peak season, it’s necessary to dismount from your bike due to the many tourists in the harbor. This presents an opportunity to get a better look at the castle or the Renaissance building of the Dogana Veneta. When I took the cycling route on a Sunday in August, the path was heavily crowded with pedestrians, and I must admit it was not an enjoyable experience. Therefore, I recommend using the dedicated cycling lane on the main road (which isn’t a lakeside path but is still reserved for bicycles) during these tourist-heavy periods.
You’ll continue on the path towards Cisano, a hamlet of Bardolino, and then take a break by the lakeside in the famous village known for its eponymous wine.
In reality, since you’re cycling, it’s advisable to stop for a good coffee to refresh yourself before continuing to the town of Garda. As you approach this direction, you’ll be able to see the port and the striking promontory of the Rocca di Garda.
Return to Peschiera or Vice Versa: on the Cycling Path or by Ferry!
For the return trip, you can take the ferry back to Peschiera (or vice versa) with the scheduled routes provided by Navigarda, especially if you’ve rented bikes!
Alternatively, you can return with your own vehicle, and in that case, the round trip for your bike tour will be over 40 kilometers but not too strenuous.
The advice is to stay in Garda and the surrounding areas for a lunch of fresh lake fish before heading back. In the summer, I also recommend taking a dip in the Baia delle Sirene (Mermaid Bay) at Punta San Vigilio.
In short, if the weather allows, it’s certainly a unique opportunity to experience this cycling and pedestrian route along Lake Garda.
