What is a malga and why ride to one?

A malga is a working alpine pasture-and-cheese hut. Malga Grassi sits at 1100 m above Riva del Garda and serves traditional Trentino lunch — polenta, local cheese, speck — that is hard to beat after a climb.

How hard is the climb to Malga Grassi?

Moderate to advanced. About 900 m of elevation in 11 km of mostly paved switchbacks. An hour and a half of steady climbing on a regular MTB; comfortable on an e-bike.

Is there a choice of descent from Malga Grassi?

Yes. We pick on the day — either the same paved road for a fast cruise, or a forested singletrack option (intermediate skill required) that drops back to Riva via Pregasina.

Does Malga Grassi need a reservation for lunch?

In high season (July–August and weekends), yes — and we handle that as part of the tour booking. Outside peak times a walk-in usually works.

Malga Grassi MTB Ride — MTB Tour around Lake Garda

Climb to the mountain hut Malga Grassi for authentic local cuisine and descend on forest trails

Malga Grassi MTB Ride at a glance

Difficulty: Advanced
Duration: 4 hours
Total distance: 20 km
Elevation gain: 965 m
Price: €70 for 1 solo rider, or one flat group rate for 2–6 riders sharing the same guide.
Start point: Riva del Garda, Torbole or Arco.

The feeling of Malga Grassi MTB Ride

A true mountain biking experience above Lake Garda

About the Malga Grassi MTB Ride tour

This tour offers a full mountain biking experience — combining a steady climb with a long and dynamic descent.

It's one of the most complete rides in the area for those who want more than just a scenic route.

This ride takes you above Riva del Garda, following the same scenic route toward Campi before continuing higher into the mountains toward Malga Grassi.

The climb combines quiet mountain roads and forest sections, gradually gaining elevation without extreme gradients. It's a long but steady ascent, especially enjoyable on an e-bike.

At the top, we take a break at the malga, enjoying the mountain atmosphere and views before deciding how to continue the ride.

From here, the character of the tour can change depending on your preference and skill level.

For riders looking for a true mountain biking experience, the descent follows a forest trail with loose gravel, steeper sections, and a more technical feel — requiring good control and confidence on the bike.

Alternatively, we can return via the same road we used for the climb — a smoother and more relaxed option that still offers beautiful scenery on the way down.

We choose the best option together, adapting the ride to your level so you can enjoy the experience safely and with confidence.

Why this ride is special — Malga Grassi MTB Ride

Malga Grassi is known for its potato polenta — a local dish typical for this area.

On the way, you pass the archaeological site of Monte San Martino, with remains dating back to pre-Roman times.

The route climbs through a transition zone where olive groves give way to forest, and the air becomes noticeably cooler with elevation.

Who this ride is for

Suitable for riders with good fitness and confident bike handling skills

Route highlights on Malga Grassi MTB Ride

Full mountain biking experience — climb and descent
Scenic ride via Campi into the mountains above Lake Garda
Break at Malga Grassi alpine hut
Optional technical trail descent for experienced riders
Alternative smooth road descent for a more relaxed return

Good to know before you ride Malga Grassi MTB Ride

Includes a long and sometimes technical descent
E-bike recommended for the climb

What to bring

Helmet (mandatory)
Sturdy shoes — rocky terrain ahead
Water bottle (1.5L minimum)
Warm layer — Malga Grassi is at altitude
Sunscreen & sunglasses
Cash for lunch at the malga
Fully charged phone — you'll want photos!
Good mood 😊

Frequently asked about Malga Grassi MTB Ride

What is a malga and why ride to one?: A malga is a working alpine pasture-and-cheese hut. Malga Grassi sits at 1100 m above Riva del Garda and serves traditional Trentino lunch — polenta, local cheese, speck — that is hard to beat after a climb.
How hard is the climb to Malga Grassi?: Moderate to advanced. About 900 m of elevation in 11 km of mostly paved switchbacks. An hour and a half of steady climbing on a regular MTB; comfortable on an e-bike.
Is there a choice of descent from Malga Grassi?: Yes. We pick on the day — either the same paved road for a fast cruise, or a forested singletrack option (intermediate skill required) that drops back to Riva via Pregasina.
Does Malga Grassi need a reservation for lunch?: In high season (July–August and weekends), yes — and we handle that as part of the tour booking. Outside peak times a walk-in usually works.

Book Malga Grassi MTB Ride: WhatsApp +39 388 571 8535 · info@mtb-tour.it · Tour page: https://mtb-tour.it/tours/malga-grassi.html

Mountainbike-Tour am Gardasee — Malga Grassi MTB Ride. Climb to the mountain hut Malga Grassi for authentic local cuisine and descend on forest trails Private MTB-Tour mit lokalem Guide ab Riva del Garda, Torbole oder Arco. Schwierigkeit: Advanced · 20 km · 965 m Höhenmeter. Buchung: +39 388 571 8535 (WhatsApp).