Italy

3) Lake Garda

Lake Garda is voted by many in the know as the world's best riding. 

A big statement and one that is not too far fetched.  Lake Garda is Italy's largest lake and lies just south of the Alps, surrounded on three sides by mountains.  Based on the northern edge of Lake Garda are three areas, Riva del Garda, Tofbole and Malcesine.  Beaches around the lake and the watersports available also make Lake Garda a suitable destination for those who are not biking 

Nearest airport: Milan and Verona.

What does Lake Garda have to offer?

Cross Country	Intermediate & Advanced
Downhill	Intermediate
Freeride	Beginner
Cable Car	YES
Gondola	-
Chairlift	-
Connected to	Shuttle service from shops

With the trails starting at over 2000 m and the lake at 65 m, this is one hell of a vertical drop.  Any run here contains a great variety of terrain due to their sheer length, with exposed ridges, dry, dusty soil, large rock slabs, tunnels, trees and loose rock all the way down to what is one of the world's famous beauty spots.  Endless flowing singletrack partnered with an excellent climate.

DOWNHILL
There are no Downhill courses at Lake Garda, but do not let that put you off.  Arrange an uplift at any of the shops or get the cable car at Maclesine and you will be able to enjoy some of the best natural downhills you are ever likely to ride!  Long technical singletrack, picking your way over the rocky ground as the trails run on and on.  With some forward planning and a map... it is worth it.

FREERIDE
Lake Garda is not really a Freeride destination as it is all about the singletrack.

CROSS-COUNTRY
The Cross Country riding here is really for riders who have a good base level of fitness, (even if experienced and technically proficient).  Long uphills are the order of the day.  Beginners are likely to struggle on the long climbs and descents.  Being that there is no bikepark as such, it is back to the traditional methods and you will have to get  a map out.  This is relatively easy as there are plenty of trials on the map, all of which are open to bikes.

There is a Malcesine cablecar and a shuttle services from the shops   The lifts are expensive and limited, the shuttles have to be booked and the Malcesine only takes bikes at set times. (check mtb.ongarda.com).

Summer Lifts Open	The Malcesine cable is open all year round
Lift Opening Times	09.00 - 12.30 & 14:00 - 16:45 (always check)
Lift Prices	Malcesine cablecar 15 € per uplift // Shuttle 15-20 € per uplift

 
Shuttle buses can be booked for groups at any time, although there is still snow higher up until May.  The Malcesine cablecar runs all year round.

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Directory:
Tourist Office: T+39 0464 5544
Website: visitgarda.com