South Tyrol & Lake Garda Discovery

Arrive in Merano / Meran on your own (private transfer available on request). Merano (324m / 1,063') is an Alpine town in the South Tyrol / Alto Adige. It is located just south of the Austrian border, at a crossroads between the majesty of the Alps and the allure of the more mild climates of the south. In the past, Merano was a popular place of residence for scientists, writers, and artists, who appreciated its mild climate. Historical and contemporary architecture are in perfect harmony here, with modern design hotels standing next to traditional buildings from the Belle Époque.Fantastic hiking, cycling, and many water sport activities are all available, but the long tradition as a spa resort town is it’s true claim to fame.

After breakfast you will meet with your English speaking Hiking Guide for a trip briefing and orientation. 

In the morning, take the train from Merano to Malles, and a bus to Lake Resia, where you can pick up your rental bike (included). Popular among leisure cyclists, the 83 kilometer (52 mile) designated cycling route unfolds from Lake Resia 1,498m /4,913’ to Merano along the ancient Roman road ‘Via Claudia Augusta’. For the most part the route runs on flat terrain with gentle downhills, along the shore of San Valentino Lake and passing through several traditional small villages of South Tyrol. This cycling adventure can be shortened by using the efficient Venosta Valley railway system that operates regular services to Merano. Return to Merano and enjoy a relaxing evening at the Wellness centre of your hotel, or take a stroll along the charming town centre.
(Bicycle ~83km /52 miles, 1,217m / 3,991' descent. Option to shorten the ride.)

After breakfast take a bike ride to Bolzano along the Adige river past rolling hills, vineyards and apple groves. You’ll be able to drop your bike off in Bolzano, stroll through the town center and enjoy lunch in one of the delicious restaurants, before meeting your driver for your private transfer to Lake Garda.

Riva del Garda is a popular destination on Lake Garda and located in the most dramatic part of the Lake, the northern side, with mountain rising on either side or vertical cliffs. After Desenzano, Riva is the second largest town on the shores of the lake but it has a very different atmosphere, lively and outdoorsy. A pleasant base where tourists can stroll along winding streets and relax in waterfront squares. But Riva isn't just about tourism - it was an important strategic point at the juncture of the Alps and the Italian plains for many centuries. Today Riva is still one of the most popular resorts on Lake Garda along with its neighboring towns of Torbole to the east and Arco to the north, especially loved by windsurfers, kitesurfers and rock climbers. Riva boasts superb scenery, elegant parks and a long lakeside promenade, the perfect starting point to explore Lake Garda.

In the morning, meet your local English-speaking bike guide and collect your E-bikes. Today, you will discover two precious hidden gems nestled northwest of Riva del Garda: Lake Tenno, with its turquoise clear waters, and the small, picturesque medieval hamlet of Canale, awarded as one of the best preserved medieval towns in Italy. The day will begin with an uphill bike ride to the tranquil town of Pranzo en route to Lake Tenno. Enjoy lunch in a typical agriturismo restaurant (lunch not included) before descending on country roads to Riva del Garda through vineyards and olive groves, with spectacular views of Lake Garda below.
(E-bike ~25km / 15 miles, 590m / 1,935' ascent and descent.)

The Monte Baldo mountain range extends for 30 kilometers (18 miles) from north to south, from the town of Torbole to Garda. Two thirds of it sits in the Veneto region and one third in the Trentino region. Officially referred to as "the Garden of Italy," Monte Baldo enjoys an extraordinary biodiversity thanks to the microclimate influenced by Lake Garda and its sub-Mediterranean climate, growing into a more Alpine climate at 2200 meters (7,220') and boasting a remarkable 50 percent of the Alpine flora.

A beautiful hike at the top of Monte Baldo mountain range is a must during your visit to Lake Garda. From the center of Malcesine take the two-stage cable-car to Tratto Spino (1,760m / 5,773') and enjoy the spectacular views of Lake Garda (ticket not included). Notice that the second stage of the cable-car rotates at 360 degrees, allowing everyone to enjoy full views of the surroundings.
Monte Baldo offers a selection of hikes suitable to everyone, your guide will help you choose the best hike for you based on weather conditions and suitability. At the end of your hike, descend to Malcesine by cable car and transfer back to your hotel.
(1-4 hours hiking, depending on how long you wish to hike.)

Breakfast and departure on your own (private transfer available on request).