The Bardolino Trail (Alta Via dei Colli)
Above Bardolino's lakefront, a network of signed hiking and biking paths climbs into the morainic hills through vineyards, ancient hamlets and olive groves — collectively known as the Bardolino Trail. The highest route rewards walkers with a sweeping panorama over the entire Gulf of Bardolino and the southern basin of Lake Garda that no boat trip can match.
The High Route Through the Vines
The trail develops on the highest hills behind the town, among vineyards, historic districts and a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Bardolino and the entire southern Lake Garda. Along the way you pass two churches of historical and cultural importance — San Vito di Cortelline and Santi Fermo e Rustico — both small, ancient and almost entirely tourist-free.
The morainic soil and Mediterranean microclimate that produce Bardolino DOC are on full display up here: the vines grow in rocky, glacier-deposited earth, and the hills are covered with cypresses, oleanders and laurels. In late September and October, the harvest is in full swing and the scent of crushed grapes drifts across the paths.
Practical Hiking and Cycling Notes
The trail is a series of paths immersed in the hills and vineyards, passing through villages, wineries and local farms — making it easy to plan a route that ends with a tasting. Bikes and e-bikes can be rented in Bardolino town centre, and the route can be adapted for both casual walkers and more committed hikers.
The lower lakeside path runs flat northwards along the shore towards Garda town, offering a completely different but equally beautiful perspective — in seasons when the lake level is low, it is even possible to walk as far as Punta San Vigilio and its cypress-lined villa. Trekking shoes are recommended for the upper hillside routes.
The Bardolino Trail (Alta Via dei Colli) on video
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