The western shore of Lake Garda has something the eastern and southern beaches don't: a ridge that rises straight out of the water. Within 30 minutes from Toscolano-Maderno you are at 1,500 metres. Five routes, sorted by difficulty — from a stroll by the lake to a summit hike.
1. Promenade Maderno → Gardone Riviera
Difficulty: stroll · Duration: 1 hour one-way · Distance: ~4 km · Elevation: none
The simplest way to experience the lake. From Maderno along the promenade southwards, small bays, old villas, ending at Gardone Riviera with the famous Villa Heller. Lovely cafés along the way. Return by bus (line 026) or by fast ferry.
Recommended for: first arrival, families with strollers, a leisurely half-day.
2. Valle delle Cartiere · Toscolano
Difficulty: easy · Duration: 2–3 hours · Distance: ~6 km · Elevation: 200 m
The old paper-mill ruins from the 15th century, in a shaded gorge along the Toscolano river. Historically fascinating, cool in summer, with the rush of water along the whole route. Probably the most pleasant hike in summer, because it's always a few degrees cooler than down by the lake.
Recommended for: hot days, anyone interested in cultural history, a half-day tour.
3. Strada della Forra · Tremosine
Difficulty: easy-medium · Duration: 3 hours · Distance: ~7 km · Elevation: 350 m
The "gorge road" — known from the James Bond film "Quantum of Solace". Climb from Pieve di Tremosine through a narrow rock gorge. Breathtaking views, tunnels, old mountain villages. At the top: Pieve, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy.
Recommended for: a first real hike, great photo opportunities, lunch at the Belvedere.
4. Monte Castello di Gaino
Difficulty: medium · Duration: 4 hours · Distance: ~10 km · Elevation: 600 m
The local mountain of Toscolano-Maderno. Reachable directly from Via Oriolo, no car needed. Climb through olive groves, then through chestnut woods, with the old castle ruin Castello di Gaino at the top — a panoramic view over the southern lake. At its best in May, when everything is in bloom.
Recommended for: sporty types, an early start is worth it for the morning light.
5. Summit · Monte Pizzocolo (1,581 m)
Difficulty: demanding · Duration: 6–7 hours · Distance: ~14 km · Elevation: 1,100 m
The "king" of the west shore. Starting point at Rifugio Pirlo allo Spino (reachable by car). Climb through mountain meadows, then over rocky terrain to the summit cross. Reward: a 360° view from the Brenner to the Po plain, from the Dolomites to the Apennines. On clear days, one of the best viewpoints in northern Italy.
Recommended for: experienced hikers, very good fitness. In high summer, start early; May/June is the best time.
Practical tips
When is the best hiking season?
Generally April to June and September to October. In July and August the lower routes are too hot; the higher ones still work fine. In winter many trails are open, but the higher summits can be snowed in — check beforehand.
What to bring?
- Sturdy footwear (trail runners are enough for 1–3, from route 4 onwards proper hiking boots)
- At least 1.5 litres of water per person — fountains along the way are not always reliable
- Sun protection even in cloudy weather (UV is more intense here)
- A light jacket — at 1,500 m it gets cool even in summer
- An offline map app (Komoot works well for the region)
A break along the way?
On routes 3, 4 and 5 there are rifugi and mountain restaurants — Rifugio Pirlo, Belvedere Tremosine, Trattoria at Castello di Gaino. A stop is mandatory: a sip of Aperol Spritz at 1,500 m with a view of Lake Garda is part of the experience.
Hiking and arriving at the boutique apartment
What ties these five tours together: they all start within 30 minutes by car from our apartments in Toscolano-Maderno. After every hike, your own terrace, the residence pool and a glass of Lugana on the sky terrace are waiting. That is the combination that makes the west shore special — active and relaxed in the same day.
Anyone needing detailed routes or updates on trail closures, ask Ezio on site. He knows every path and knows which routes are in good shape right now.