At a glance
- Signature route
- Strada del Ponale, Riva → Pregasina
- Ponale
- 6.4 km, about 736 m of climbing
- Bike Festival Riva 2027
- 30 April – 2 May 2027
- Bikes on ferries
- Yes, on regular ferries
- Bikes on buses
- Only where the vehicle is equipped
- Bike storage with us
- Private cellar (Deluxe Apartment)
Riva del Garda is squeezed between the lake and the mountains: within a few kilometres you go from the flat lakefront cycle path to climbs and technical trails. From spring to autumn, riders come from all over Europe, especially Germany. Staying in the old town has a real advantage: you ride straight from your door, with no need to load up the car.
The Strada del Ponale
This is Riva's signature route. The old road carved into the rock starts near the hydroelectric power station, a few minutes from the old town, and climbs high above the lake towards Pregasina and the Valle di Ledro.
- Length: about 6.4 km from Riva to Pregasina, with a stated elevation gain of about 736 m.
- Shared by walkers and cyclists: everyone keeps to their own lane, and care is needed.
- Getting back: from the Pregasina junction you can return by bus (route 214).
- It is exposed to rockfall: before setting off, check for any closures on the Garda Dolomiti website.
Other rides from Riva
- Cycle path to Arco and the Valle del Sarca: flat and family-friendly.
- Towards Torbole: along the lake, to watch the sailing boats and windsurfers.
- Monte Brione: the headland between Riva and Torbole, with views over the lake.
For up-to-date routes and difficulty grades, the go-to source is the official Garda Dolomiti portal, which also lists bike and e-bike rentals in Riva.
Bike Festival Riva del Garda
Every year in late April or early May, Riva hosts the Bike Festival, one of Europe's biggest mountain-bike events, with an expo, test rides of the latest gear and races. The 2027 edition is scheduled for 30 April – 2 May 2027. Accommodation in the old town fills up well in advance for those days, so it pays to book early.
Bikes on buses and ferries
- Navigarda ferries: bikes allowed on regular ferries, space permitting; e-bikes count as bikes. Not on the fast boats.
- Buses and trains in Trentino: bikes can only be taken where the vehicle is equipped for them.
Where to keep your bike
Space is tight in the old town, so lockable storage matters. Our Deluxe Apartment at Via Fiume 16 has a private cellar reserved for guests: there is room for bikes and kit, and in the morning you set off straight from the old town.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Strada del Ponale?
It is the old road that climbs from Riva del Garda towards Pregasina and the Valle di Ledro, carved into the rock high above the lake. Today it is a route for walkers and cyclists: about 6.4 km from Riva to Pregasina, with a stated elevation gain of about 736 m. It is shared with people on foot, so ride with care.
When is the 2027 Riva del Garda Bike Festival?
According to the organisers, the 2027 Riva del Garda Bike Festival takes place from 30 April to 2 May 2027.
Can I take my bike on Lake Garda ferries?
Yes, on regular Navigarda ferries, space permitting; e-bikes are treated as bikes. They are not allowed on the fast boats (hydrofoils and catamarans).
Where can I keep my bike in an apartment in Riva's old town?
Always ask whether there is lockable storage. Our Deluxe Apartment at Via Fiume 16 has a private cellar reserved for guests, ideal for bikes.
