If you’re an active family who loves outdoor adventures, Torbole, at the northern end of Lake Garda, is a great holiday destination with a different vibe from the rest of the lake.
Torbole is the windsurfing capital of the lake where the beautiful peaks of the Italian Alps meet the idyllic Mediterranean climate of Lake Garda. Torbole is famous for its wind, which is what makes it perfect for windsurfers.
While the outskirts of the town cater mostly to outdoor activities with plenty of bike rentals and watersports shops, the centre features pastel coloured houses, a harbour and a central square. The climate is mild with hillsides carpeted in olive groves, sampling the local olive oil is a must!
One of our favourite things about Torbole is how easy it is to leave the car in the car park. Visitors can walk or bike to nearby Riva del Garda or hop on a ferry to visit the south of the lake.
Photo by Marco Ghirello on Unsplash
Family Adventures Near Torbole
Try a Watersport
Torbole is perfect for watersports. If you’re not a seasoned windsurfer or don’t fancy learning, Stand Up Paddle Boarding is a great alternative. It’s pretty easy to pick up, and there are introductory courses run locally.
There are also places to rent a padel boat or kayak which is a great way to see an alternative view of the mountain.
Photo by Richard Gabriel Moritz on Unsplash
Busatte Adventure Park
Swing through the trees at Busatte Adventure Park. This aerial adventure park is a great place to burn off steam and escape the heat of the lake. There are routes suitable for kids of all ages and a BMX track!
Cycle to Riva del Garda
Rent bikes in Torbole and cycle down to Riva del Garda, the route avoids main roads and takes you to some great public swimming spots and gelaterias.
Riva del Garda is the biggest town on the northern shore of the lake, full of lively cafes, shops and waterfront parks.
Top tips for Riva del Garda
- Swim on a beautiful pebble beach.
- Climb the Torre Apponale for views of the whole lake.
- Climb castle turrets at The Rocca di Riva
- Take a glass funicular up to The Bastione to explore a Venetian fortress.
Photo by Max Böhme on Unsplash
Visit the Varone Waterfall
The Varone waterfall is an incredible natural gorge. Guests can walk through a series of tunnels where they can see water falling down. It’s a fun way to cool off during a hot afternoon.
Head to the Busatte-Tempesta Trail
This coastal trail is mostly (except the staircases) and relatively easy, with incredible views across the lake. Part of the route includes staircases attached to the cliff. The walk takes 2-3 hours, so take plenty of water and snacks. It’s a great way to get alpine views without climbing a mountain.
The trail starts at Parco Delle Busatte, where there’s a parking area and toilets. To get back, you can either take a public bus to Torbole or walk along the road back to Busette, saving you from climbing the stairs again.
Top Tips
Don’t forget to check out the Trentino Guest Card, which gives free of discounted entry to museums and local transport.
The best time to be on the lake or a trail is early in the morning when the water is calmer and before the peak temperatures.
Water shoes make walking along the pebbly beaches much more bearable.
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