What is the Ponale road and why ride it by bike?

The Ponale is a closed-to-cars former military road carved into the cliffs above Lake Garda. It climbs 410 m in a series of galleries and switchbacks with a continuous view of the lake — widely considered one of the most spectacular cycle paths in Europe.

How steep is the Pregasina climb?

Average gradient is around 7%, with a few ramps at 9–10%. Continuous but never brutal — most fit riders complete it in 60–80 minutes on a normal MTB.

Is the Ponale dangerous? Are there tunnels?

It is safe — wide enough for two bikes, with stone parapets above the exposed sections. There are a few short tunnels along the way, which is part of what makes the road memorable.

Can the Pregasina ride be done on an e-bike?

Yes, and it is one of the most popular e-bike tours on Lake Garda. Battery range is not a concern thanks to the long descent back to Riva.

Pregasina Panoramic Experience — MTB Tour around Lake Garda

Climb the legendary Ponale road to Pregasina for stunning lake views and lunch high above the water

Pregasina Panoramic Experience at a glance

Difficulty: Intermediate
Duration: 3 hours
Total distance: 15 km
Elevation gain: 410 m
Price: €100 per tour — one flat price for 1 to 6 riders sharing the same guide.
E-bike rental: €45 hardtail / around €65 full-suspension per person. Helmet €4.
Start in Riva del Garda, Torbole or Arco — at a partner bike shop near you

Hardtail or Full-Suspension E-Bike on Lake Garda: How to Choose · What to Check on a Rental Bike Before You Ride into the Mountains

The feeling of Pregasina Panoramic Experience

One of the most scenic rides above Lake Garda with breathtaking panoramic views

About the Pregasina Panoramic Experience tour

This tour takes you high above Lake Garda to one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the region. It's a scenic and rewarding ride designed for those who want to experience the mountains without technical difficulty.

We climb above the lake along scenic mountain roads, reaching panoramic viewpoints that offer some of the most iconic views in the Garda region.

We start from the port of Riva del Garda and follow the famous Strada del Ponale — a spectacular road carved into the cliffs above the lake. Once the only connection between Riva and the Ledro Valley, it is now one of the most scenic cycling routes in Europe.

Along the way, we stop at a cliffside café for an espresso with panoramic views of the turquoise water below.

After the break, we continue climbing through olive groves and sunlit hillsides toward Pregasina — a small village perched high above the lake. Quiet, authentic and surrounded by nature, it feels like a hidden place far from the crowds.

In Pregasina there's a relaxed lunch with the lake spread out below — a good place to sit for a while before we head back down.

We take our time, stop for photos, and adjust the pace to your level, so you can fully enjoy the experience without stress.

Why this ride is special — Pregasina Panoramic Experience

Pregasina sits about 500 meters above Lake Garda, set into the mountainside with open views over the northern part of the lake.

Its position, slightly removed from the main lakeside area, gives it a quieter and more local feel.

From here, the lake feels more open and distant, with a perspective you don't get at the shoreline.

Who this ride is for

Best for riders with basic fitness — ideal for e-bike or intermediate level

Route highlights on Pregasina Panoramic Experience

Ride along the iconic Strada del Ponale carved into cliffs above the lake
Breathtaking panoramic views from high above Lake Garda
Espresso stop at a scenic cliffside café
Relaxed lunch with the lake far below

What's included

A private certified guide — only your group, 1 to 6 riders
A route planned for your level and adapted on the day
Photos during the ride — I send them to you after the tour
Repair kit and first-aid kit, carried by the guide
The guide's professional liability insurance (RC Professionale)

Not included

Bike rental: e-bike hardtail €45, full-suspension about €65, helmet €4 — paid at the partner shop
Food and drinks — we plan the stops; outside summer some mountain huts are closed
Ferry or cable-car tickets on the routes that use them
Personal accident or travel insurance — recommended, daily policies from €3.50

Good to know before you ride Pregasina Panoramic Experience

E-bike recommended for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience
Best with e-bike or good fitness

What to bring

Helmet (mandatory)
Small backpack for essentials
Water bottle (1L minimum)
Sunscreen & sunglasses
Light jacket for the Ponale climb
Fully charged phone — you'll want photos!
Good mood 😊

Frequently asked about Pregasina Panoramic Experience

What is the Ponale road and why ride it by bike?: The Ponale is a closed-to-cars former military road carved into the cliffs above Lake Garda. It climbs 410 m in a series of galleries and switchbacks with a continuous view of the lake — widely considered one of the most spectacular cycle paths in Europe.
How steep is the Pregasina climb?: Average gradient is around 7%, with a few ramps at 9–10%. Continuous but never brutal — most fit riders complete it in 60–80 minutes on a normal MTB.
Is the Ponale dangerous? Are there tunnels?: It is safe — wide enough for two bikes, with stone parapets above the exposed sections. There are a few short tunnels along the way, which is part of what makes the road memorable.
Can the Pregasina ride be done on an e-bike?: Yes, and it is one of the most popular e-bike tours on Lake Garda. Battery range is not a concern thanks to the long descent back to Riva.

Book Pregasina Panoramic Experience: WhatsApp +39 388 571 8535 · info@mtb-tour.it · Tour page: https://mtb-tour.it/tours/pregasina.html

Your guide: Aleksei (Lex) Shatilov — meet the guide and see credentials →