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Street · Riva del Garda, Trentino-Alto Ádige
Strada del Ponale
19th-century road carved into the rock face above the lake, between Riva and the Ledro valley, now a trail for pedestrians and cyclists with tunnels and viewpoints.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Strada del Ponale
Strada del Ponale was built between 1847 and 1851 at the initiative of Giacomo Cis, a merchant from the Ledro valley. Before it existed, those descending from the valley had to follow a steep trail to the small Ponale harbour and continue by boat to Riva. The new road, cut into the rock of Monte Rocchetta, changed the link between the valley and the lake.
For more than a century, cars and trucks climbed the road's curves and tunnels, one of the most feared routes in the region. In 1990 it was closed to traffic and replaced by a tunnel connection.
From 2004 the road reopened as a trail for pedestrians and cyclists and became one of the most popular walks on the northern lake. The climb is continuous, with bends above the water, tunnels carved into the rock and viewpoints with views of the lake and Riva. The trail continues to Pregasina and the Ledro valley.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 2 to 3 hours on foot, round trip to the first viewpoints; longer if you go to Pregasina.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the strong sun. April, May, September and October are usually the most pleasant months.
How to get there
The trailhead is at Riva's southern exit, about 2 km from the centre, following the lakeside toward the rock face. You can walk or cycle there.
Tip
Bring water, a hat and closed shoes. Pedestrians and cyclists share the path: keep to the right. After heavy rain the trail may close due to falling rocks; check conditions before you go.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Strada del Ponale
Do you need a bicycle for the Strada del Ponale?
No. Many people do it on foot. There are also bike rental shops in Riva for those who want to cycle.
Is the trail difficult?
It's a continuous ascent along an old wide road, without technical sections. It requires fitness to walk for a few hours in the sun.
How far does the trail go?
It climbs up to Pregasina and the Ledro valley. For a short visit, the first viewpoints over the lake are already worth the trip.