Italy’s Scenic Transformation: Lake Garda Bike Trail
Italy’s largest lake is undergoing an exciting transformation with the construction of a trail that will allow cyclists to bike around its entire perimeter. When completed, the approximately 87-mile bike path will stretch around all of Lake Garda in northern Italy, just outside of Verona.
The Garda by Bike project is two years in the making, with completion expected in 2021. This trail, constructed from both existing tracks and newly built paths, will take cycling enthusiasts from Lombardy through Trento and Veneto and back, Lonely Planet reports. Moreover, the path will connect to the continent-wide European cycle routes EuroVelo 7 and EuroVelo 8, enhancing the cycling experience for visitors.
Although embarking on the full route may appear daunting, the Garda by Bike trail caters to cyclists of all skill levels and ages. The path is wide, features no steep inclines, and is paved with wooden planks, so specialty bikes are unnecessary. According to Lonely Planet, a particularly picturesque section of the path is already open along the western shore of the lake, spanning a little over one mile from Capo Reamol.
Discover Italy’s Outdoor Projects
The Garda by Bike trail is not the only project Italy has launched to inspire outdoor activity. In June, the country announced a new hiking trail called Sentiero dei Parchi that will connect all 25 of its national parks upon completion. This extensive trail will encompass sections of the existing Sentiero Italia, which measures nearly 4,350 miles and traverses through 18 of the 25 national parks.
While the path is years away from completion, Sergio Costa, Italy’s Minister of the Environment, has called the project an essential indicator of how much the country values its immense natural heritage and sustainable tourism, especially in this post-COVID era when there’s a collective yearning for the outdoors.
At this moment, American tourists may not be able to enjoy these new hiking and cycling paths, as Italy currently remains off-limits to visitors from the U.S. Consequently, for more information on where Americans can travel now, consider consulting a comprehensive travel guide that provides current travel restrictions and options.
Learn more about Italy’s commitment to sustainable tourism and outdoor adventure. Follow along for updates and helpful travel information.
