Besides the pink hue of its mountains and the deep green of its valleys, Trentino is also renowned for the silvery blue of its lakes, springs, waterfalls and rivers. Indeed Trentino, with its almost 300 lakes dotting the land like inverted islands in a sea of forests and mountain peaks, is home to some of the most spectacular lakeside scenery in Italy. And of course, it’s not only about the fantastic views and carefree walks, it’s also about water sports.
The upper reaches of Lake Garda have always represented a first taste of the Mediterranean for south-bound visitors arriving from Germany and Central Europe through the Brenner Pass. With its mild climate, olive groves and picturesque lakeside towns, Lake Garda is a favourite destination for those seeking a relaxing break in a unique environment. Goethe, Nietzsche, Kafka and Thomas Mann were all captivated on reaching the shores between the towns of Torbole and Riva, while Archduke Albert of Austria had his winter residence built in Arco. Thanks to the prevailing “Ora” and “Peler” winds that blow regularly across the surface of its deep blue waters, Lake Garda has also become a hub for sailors and windsurfers with numerous schools and sailing clubs and dozens of international regattas organised every year.
Not far from Lake Garda, sheltered by the first peaks of the Alps, Lake Ledro is located amongst the woods of the Val di Ledro. Renowned for its cool clear waters, it’s the perfect spot for a refreshing swim or simply relaxing on one of its beaches. Windsurfing and canoeing are also practiced here. To compliment the scenery, the remains of an impressive prehistoric pile-dwelling settlement can be visited along its shores. Furthermore, the surrounding valley is home to numerous paths and bike trails winding through the forests or leading up to the mountain peaks.
Lake Molveno, nestled between the Paganella Highlands and the Brenta Dolomites at an altitude of 800 metres, is a real gem. Indeed, the lake was declared “Most Beautiful Lake in Italy” for the 5th consecutive year in 2018 by Legambiente and the Touring Club Italiano. Boat trips and pleasant walks along its shores are a fantastic idea for a relaxing holiday although the lake’s central location also makes it perfect for exploring the surrounding mountains.
The largest lake entirely within the Trentino territory is Lake Caldonazzo in the Valsugana. Its warm calm waters (ranging from 20-24°C in the summer) combined with accessible beaches make it ideal for bathing although water sports are regularly practiced here too with a number of lakeside establishments, including four sailing clubs, offering a wide range of activities. Lake Levico, sometimes referred to as the twin lake of Caldonazzo, is just a stone’s throw away. Renowned for its Spa resort and large free beach immersed in a large park, it’s perfect for bathing and a bit of relaxation either on the beach or walking along the lakeside trails. In the south-west of Trentino, Lake Idro with its steady prevailing winds, is ideal for kitesurfing while the turquois waters of Lake Tenno offer the perfect backdrop for a picnic on its grassy banks or a walk through the surrounding forests. In the upper Val di Mocheni, Lake Erdemolo is somewhat of a hidden gem. Framed as it is by mountain crests, it’s the ideal destination for scenic hikes through this valley, home to the Mocheno language and traditions.
Besides sailing, windsurfing and kayaking and other well-known activities, Trentino offers many other water sports. How about white water rafting along the Noce river? Or canyoning down the gullies carved out by mountain torrents just north of Lake Garda? This sport, a combination of mountaineering and swimming, is a thrilling experience but it’s strongly recommended you be assisted by a professional guide.
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