65 km · 411 m elevation · Loop · Road bike · Easy–Moderate
There’s a river loop just south of Lake Garda that most cyclists never find. The Adige cuts through one of the most dramatic gorges in northern Italy — and this route follows it almost all the way down and back, on quiet roads with barely a car in sight.
“Roadbike Tour around the Adige River from Rivoli | Lake Garda”
Some trips are about kilometers. Others are about connection. The very first CiaoCycling Ladies Gravel Camp in September 2025 was about both — and so much more.
Set in the beautiful surroundings of Lake Garda’s south-eastern hills, this 4-day camp brought together a small group of passionate women from all over Europe for a week of gravel riding, sunshine, storytelling, and shared meals. We explored hidden routes that don’t exist on Komoot, bonded over olive oil and sourdough, and left with new friendships and full hearts.
When you meet someone who shares the same passion, the same love for a place, and the same drive to build something meaningful, things move naturally and teaming up feels easy..
That’s how the partnership with Carola began. We bring different strengths, but our values and goals align. Today, ciaocycling grows from a one-woman project into a duo — Caro & Caro.
When people hear Valpolicella, they usually think of red wine, Amarone, and hillside vineyards. But cyclists in the know understand that this region — just north of Verona and a short ride from Lake Garda — is also one of the most rewarding and scenic places to ride in northern Italy.
Whether you’re on a road bike chasing climbs or on a gravel adventure through the vines, Valpolicella offers a perfect mix of quiet roads, rural charm, and unforgettable views.
Let’s take a look at what makes it so special — on and off the bike.
Most cyclists dream of Girona or Tuscany when they think of great riding — and for good reason. But what if I told you there’s a corner of northern Italy that offers rolling white roads, olive groves, vineyard-lined trails and smooth tarmac winding through hills and lakeside towns… all without the crowds or clichés?
Welcome to the south-east of Lake Garda — a quiet, rideable paradise hiding in plain sight.
One lake. One unforgettable loop. A full-day road ride around Italy’s most scenic lake, starting and finishing in Bardolino.
The Giro del Lago di Garda — or Lake Garda loop — is one of the most iconic full-day rides in northern Italy. I like to start from Bardolino where we have the second ciaocycling home, and riding clockwise, this ~140 km road bike tour offers an incredible mix of panoramic lake views, lakeside villages, and rolling terrain.
If you’re planning a cycling trip to Lake Garda — especially the south-eastern side around Bardolino — timing your visit with the weather can make all the difference. Whether you’re into gravel adventures through the hills or smooth road rides along the lake, knowing what each season brings helps you choose the perfect time to ride.
As someone who rides here all year round, here’s what you can expect from the climate — and how it impacts your cycling experience.
Copyright ciaocycling © 2025 | Carolina Rossi | P.IVA 05127320231
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