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Weekend at Lake Garda: itinerary, tips and must-see places
June 1, 2025
💦 Spectacular Nature on Lake Garda
Lake Garda is famous for its picturesque villages, azure waters and outdoor activities. But there’s a more hidden, wild and fascinating side that deserves to be discovered: that of its waterfalls.
Between rocky gorges, forest trails and vertical walls sculpted by time, the waterfalls of Lake Garda offer a surprising natural spectacle, perfect for those who love hiking, taking photographs or simply being in touch with nature.
Whether you’re looking for an easy family-friendly hike, a cool spot for summer or an unusual destination for your itinerary, in this guide you’ll find the most beautiful and accessible waterfalls around the Garda, from the Trentino shore to the Verona and Brescia sides.
🌿 Why Visit the Waterfalls of Lake Garda
Waterfalls are magical and rejuvenating places, where time seems to slow down and nature shows its strength. Visiting them along Lake Garda means:
- 🌊 Discover unique landscapes, sculpted by water over the centuries
- 🥾 Go trekking or easy walks immersed in greenery
- 📸 Take postcard-worthy photos in often little-known places
- ❄️ Refresh yourself in summer thanks to the breeze and the sound of water
- 👨👩👧👦 Share authentic moments with family or friends
Moreover, many of these waterfalls are easily reachable and suitable even for those who aren’t particularly fit. Some lie just minutes from towns or in well-signposted nature reserves.
Ready to go? In the next section we’ll explore together the 10 most beautiful waterfalls of Lake Garda, with useful information for visiting them.
🌊 The Most Beautiful Waterfalls of Lake Garda
1. 💧 Varone Waterfall – Riva del Garda (TN)
One of the most famous and visited waterfalls on the lake. Located a few kilometers from Riva del Garda, the Varone Waterfall lies within a private natural park, fully equipped and well maintained.
- 💦 Over 90-meter drop inside a deep and spectacular gorge
- Trails, footbridges and caves with panoramic walkways
- Suitable for everyone, including families with children
- Paid entrance, convenient parking
💡 Don’t miss the upper panoramic terrace with a bird’s-eye view of the waterfall.
2. 🌿 Molina Waterfalls – Fumane (VR)
In the Parco delle Cascate di Molina, not far from Verona and easily reachable from the lake’s south-eastern shore, you’ll find a true natural paradise.
- Easy, well-signposted trails through woods and streams
- Multiple waterfalls along the route, some with suspended swings
- Paid entrance, picnic area
- Great also for children and school groups
💡 Bring lightweight hiking shoes and a swimsuit: some brave visitors get wet under the falls!
3. 🏞️ Ponale Waterfall – Ponale Trail (Riva del Garda)
The Ponale trail is one of Europe’s most beautiful panoramic routes, and along the way you’ll encounter this charming little cascade that tumbles down the rocks above the road.
- Perfect for hikers and cyclists
- Free to access and visible directly from the trail
- Wild atmosphere with spectacular lake views
💡 Ideal for combining an excursion with natural beauty.
4. 🌲 Rio Nero Waterfall – Tremosine (BS)
This waterfall lies in the heart of the Valle di Brasa, near the famous Strada della Forra. It’s an ideal stop for those exploring the Brescia side of the lake.
- Hidden among rocks, reachable via a short walk
- Green, wild landscape, sparsely visited
- Highly scenic, perfect for photography enthusiasts
💡 Pair it with a typical lunch at one of Tremosine’s panoramic restaurants.
5. ⛰️ Campione del Garda Waterfall – Tignale (BS)
Little known but very charming, this waterfall is near the locality of Campione del Garda, famous for kitesurfing. The drop falls against a rocky backdrop, just steps from the lake.
- Accessible via a short dirt path
- Perfect spot for picnics and relaxation
- Wild, often uncrowded atmosphere
💡 Bring comfortable shoes and a camera: the contrast between water and rock is stunning.
6. 🌄 Tignale Waterfall – Località Aer (BS)
Another little-known gem, nestled in the woods above Tignale, within the Alto Garda Bresciano Park.
- Short hike suitable for everyone
- Unspoiled nature and tranquil setting
- Perfect in spring or after rainy days
💡 Ideal for a refreshing afternoon away from the crowds.
7. 🌌 Perino Waterfall – Ledro Valley (TN)
In the enchanting Ledro Valley, a short distance from the lake’s northern shore, this waterfall lies along a little-trodden, fascinating path.
- Easy hiking route through woods and streams
- Refreshing in summer, relaxing all year round
- Can be combined with a visit to Lake Ledro
💡 Great for light trekking in a tranquil environment.
8. 🍃 Val di Sorna Waterfall – Monte Baldo (VR)
On the slopes of Monte Baldo, this waterfall descends among moss and rocks in a fairytale landscape.
- Ideal for hikers and nature photography enthusiasts
- Cool, shaded area even in summer
- Little signposted, but clearly visible once you arrive
💡 Bring a map or GPS for the trail.
9. 🌪️ Giant’s Kettles Waterfall – Nago (TN)
A small but evocative waterfall formed within the famous Giant’s Kettles, unique glacial formations near Nago.
- Interesting geological area, very scenic
- Short route, suitable for families
- Free access, near the Torbole–Arco cycle path
💡 A perfect spot to combine geology and nature.
10. 🏔️ Bondo Valley Waterfalls – Tremosine (BS)
In this secluded valley you’ll find small cascading waterfalls, nestled among woods, rocks and old mills. Less touristy, but fascinating for those who love serene spots.
- Medium-difficulty route
- Lush nature, authentic atmosphere
- Great in spring and early summer
💡 Wear hiking boots: the terrain can be slippery in places.
🧭 Useful Tips: How to Get There, Seasonality and Clothing
🗓️ When to Visit
The best period to visit the waterfalls is:
- Spring (March–June): streams are full thanks to snowmelt and temperatures are ideal.
- Autumn (September–October): fewer crowds and breathtaking colors in the woods.
- Summer (July–August): perfect for a refreshing day, but avoid peak hours on weekends to escape the crowds.
Some waterfalls like Molina or Varone can be visited year-round, even in winter (check seasonal openings for paid parks).
🥾 How to Dress and What to Bring
- Hiking boots or sneakers with good grip
- Light backpack with water, snacks, rain jacket and sunscreen
- Swimsuit and towel (some areas allow swimming)
- Camera or smartphone: you’ll find spectacular spots to capture
- Map or trail app (some waterfalls lie on poorly signposted routes)
💡 Some areas offer picnic or bar facilities, others do not: plan ahead and pack a lunch if necessary.
🚗 How to Get There
- Many waterfalls are reachable by car with nearby parking (Varone, Molina, Tignale).
- For the more hidden ones, like Bondo Valley or Rio Nero, you’ll need a 15–40 minute walk.
- Some routes are bike-friendly (e.g. Ponale Trail, Giant’s Kettles).
👉 If you’re holidaying on the Garda, you can easily plan a half-day trip combined with a village visit or a gastronomic stop.
🌈 A Refreshing and Unforgettable Experience
The waterfalls of Lake Garda are a wonderful surprise for those who love authentic landscapes, hikes immersed in nature and moments of quiet away from mass tourism.
From the roar of the Varone Waterfall to the water games of the Molina Waterfalls, through the natural stages of the Ponale or the wilder areas of Monte Baldo, each stop offers a unique experience, to be enjoyed with curious eyes and light steps.
Whether you’re a photographer, a hiker, a family with children or simply a greenery lover, these places will amaze you.
Bring only what you need: a pair of comfortable shoes, a light backpack and the desire to be enchanted.
🍃 The waterfalls of Garda await you. Follow the sound of water and let nature guide you.
