RIVA, IN THE HISTORICAL CENTER OF THE ROCCA AL BASTIONE
The town of Riva del Garda is one of the most important urban centers of Lake Garda and in particular of the northern part. The historic center is characteristic, with period buildings and colorful houses, gardens and fountains. The public beaches are among the widest in the whole of Garda: between grassy meadows and white pebbles, beaches equipped with playgrounds and lifeguard service, cycle path, bars, restaurants and shops nearby satisfies all needs. Particularly rich compared to the other towns on the lake is its historic center, with period buildings, the Apponale Tower, the ferry port, the sailing ship, a long walk along the lake and numerous ice cream parlors, restaurants and shopping opportunities. There is no shortage of historic buildings, such as the Rocca, built in 1124, the residence of the bishops, the Austro-Hungarian barracks and today the seat of the Riva del Garda Museum, surrounded by a moat and a green garden with centuries-old trees. A stop not to be missed is the Bastione, a fortress built by the Venetians in 1507, easily reachable by a path surrounded by greenery that reaches an altitude of 200 m. Born with a military function, today it lends itself to being a magnificent viewpoint over the city below and the panorama of Upper Garda. For trekking lovers we recommend continuing, with suitable clothing and shoes, to the church of Santa Barbara, at 610 m. It is a small chapel that stands out particularly at night when it stands out illuminated in the middle of the woods.
ARCO AND ITS CASTLE
Arco was famous in the past as a city of health and stay for its mild climate, it hosted the noble families of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and today it owes its fame to the practice of sports in the open air, especially free climbing, it is the home of the world free climbing competition, the Rock Master. In the center you can visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, the overlooking square and the well-kept gardens, which recall the ancient splendor of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Then continue towards the Casino of Arco, now used as a bar and restaurant, also surrounded by flowers, palm trees and a gushing fountain.
THE CASTLE OF ARCO
Going up the historic center of the town of Arco, crossing the olive grove in a pleasant 15-minute walk, you reach the Arco Castle. From here you can enjoy a suggestive view over the Sarca Valley, up to Garda, among cypresses, Mediterranean flowers and olive trees. The origin of the castle was placed around the 22nd century, thanks to the Sejano and d’Arco lords, who stayed there until towards the end of the 16th century. A period of neglect followed, culminating in the sacking of the troops of the French general Vendome (1703). A mighty system of walls, with Ghibelline battlements, encloses the inhabited area of the castle, and descends towards the medieval village of Via Stranfora, one of the most typical and ancient areas of Arco.
TORBOLE, THE CAPITAL OF SAILING AND WINDSURFING
Torbole, a small town directly on the lake, is famous for windsurfing. In fact, the Ora del Garda blows there regularly, making it a special place for practicing all sailing sports. There are several schools, both sailing and windsurfing and courses are held at all levels and for all ages. On the other hand, those who want to enjoy the beauty of the lake without tiring can take a boat from Torbole to reach Limone or Malcesine in just over half an hour, or continue to the bottom of the lake. Also in Torbole you can take interesting paths, such as the Marmitte dei Giganti, towards Nago or passing through the historic center of Torbole along a walk among the olive groves that leads to the Busatte park. There you can relax in the sun or continue along the panoramic stepped path that leads to Tempesta.
