Riva del Garda

Access

Access to Riva del Garda is facilitated by numerous connections. The town can be reached by car via the motorway (Rovereto Sud exit), from which it continues for about 17 km along the provincial road ; there are several car parks both in the centre and in the surrounding areas. The bus service connects Riva with Rovereto (railway station), Trento, Desenzano and the Garda resorts; there are ferries and lake boats to the towns around the lake. The nearest airport is Verona 'Valerio Catullo', about 85 km away. The city offers sustainable mobility solutions and bicycle hire for visiting the city centre and the surrounding area.

Introduction

Riva del Garda, located at the northern end of Lake Garda, is one of the most significant centres in Trentino, immersed in an environment that blends Alpine majesty and Mediterranean gentleness. The town is distinguished by its mild climate, varied landscape and lively culture and is a favourite destination for hikers, sports enthusiasts and history buffs. Riva del Garda overlooks one of Italy's most famous lake shores, offering evocative views of water and mountains; the area has notable natural and historical attractions, including the Rocca, the Venetian Bastion, the medieval port and Art Nouveau architecture

Description

The town is embraced by imposing reliefs, such as Monte Brione and Rocchetta, which delineate a basin where views of water and forests alternate spectacularly. Riva is a crossroads of hiking trails that wind their way through broadleaf forests, olive groves and cliffs: among the best-known routes are the Bastione panoramic trail, the 'Busatte-Tempesta' via ferrata with its famous steps, the itinerary along the ridge of Mount Brione and the traverse to Pregasina, with views of the eastern shore and Mount Baldo.
The old town centre, gathered around the old port and the Rocca, preserves evidence of different eras: from pre-Roman origins to Celtic settlements, passing through Roman rule and the long medieval history, under the Scaligeri, Visconti and Serenissima families. Fortifications, such as the Rocca and the Venetian Bastion, are among the symbols of the town and bear witness to its strategic importance. Riva, after having been under Habsburg control for a long time, was annexed to the Kingdom of Italy after the First World War.
The local economy is mainly supported by tourism, supplemented by agriculture, fishing and small artisans. Historically, fishing on the lake and the cultivation of olives and citrus fruits were the main sources of income, now enhanced by food and wine and local markets. Tourism, which has developed mainly since the Second World War, has led to the creation of accommodation facilities, water sports and cultural events, as well as attracting visitors from all over Europe and beyond.
Cultural life is animated by events such as the patronal festivals of Santa Maria Assunta (15 August) and Sant'Andrea (30 November), festivals, monthly markets, regattas, music and food festivals that keep alive the link with the traditions of Rivano and Garda. Popular traditions also include the Palio delle Bisse-historic two-pronged fishing boats-and the promotion of local cuisine, with dishes based on fish from the lake, olive oil, citrus fruits and Trentino wines.
Riva del Garda is the ideal starting point for numerous hiking itineraries, including the Busatte-Tempesta path, the panoramic stairways on Lake Garda, walks to Nago-Torbole, Monte Brione, the Bastione and via ferrate suitable for various levels of experience. Cycling, sailing, windsurfing and water sports are also frequent. The lake environment and surrounding mountains offer opportunities for photography, birdwatching and the discovery of Mediterranean-alpine flora.

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Information

Area: 40.73 sq km
Altitude: 65m
Maximum elevation: Nara Peak (1376m)
 Number of inhabitants: 16962
 Name in dialect: Riva
 Inhabitant name: rivals
 Patron Saint: St. Mary of the Assumption and St. Andrew (15 August and 30 November)
 Internet site: www.comune.rivadelgarda.tn.it
Webcam:
Neighbouring municipalities: Arco, Limone sul Garda, Ledro, Malcesine, Nago-Torbole, Tenno
 Villages and hamlets:
Alpeggi: