You’ve probably done the usual Lake Garda routine: maybe a boat trip, a stroll through a lakeside town, or a leisurely lunch with a view. All perfectly lovely, I agree. But if you’re like me, and you start craving something a bit more grounded, a way to truly connect with the landscape beyond the polished tourist spots, then I’ve got a suggestion that might surprise you: Horseriding on Lake Garda.
Getting into the quieter corners of the region, letting a horse carry you through olive groves, past vineyards, and up into the hills never has been that easy.
Top activities On Land
Why Lake Garda for Your Horseriding Adventure?
You might visit Lake Garda for the watersports, the charming towns, or even just the incredible food, but I’m here to tell you that adding horseriding to your itinerary is a brilliant move. Lake Garda offers this unique blend of dramatic mountains and serene water that makes for genuinely unforgettable riding backdrops. So first reason why, is the setting.
As lovely as the lakeside towns are, they can get busy. Horseriding offers a chance to genuinely slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and connect with the natural landscape in a peaceful way. Itโs about finding the “wild heart” of Garda, far from the crowds, and really just recharging your batteries. Here we are with our second point: seeking relax.
Last but not least, is that Lake Garda is home to some really well-established and professional equestrian centers. This means youโre getting well-trained, calm horses suited for various skill levels, and experienced guides who know the trails like the back of their hand. It genuinely makes for a safe, enjoyable, and well-organized experience, whether youโre a complete novice or a seasoned rider.
Saddled Up: Options for Every Rider
The equestrian centers, often found in the rolling hills behind towns like Bardolino or Lazise on the eastern shore, offer fantastic beginner rides, usually gentle, guided walks through quiet countryside that focus on getting you comfortable in the saddle and enjoying the scenery.
For those with a bit more experience, say youโve trotted before or even managed a canter, there are plenty of intermediate trails that offer a bit more pace and varied terrain. You might find these opportunities in the rural areas near Peschiera del Garda, where the paths wind through vineyards and farmlands.
And for the seasoned riders, the area can deliver some exhilarating advanced treks that take you higher into the foothills, perhaps towards Monte Baldo from the Malcesine side, or into the more rugged terrain north of Riva del Garda. These routes often offer more challenging climbs and longer durations, rewarding you with truly spectacular views.
Trails with a View: Iconic Riding Routes
The real magic of horseriding on Lake Garda often lies in the views, and the region boasts some truly iconic routes. Many trails will lead you through rolling hills covered in those characteristic olive groves, especially in the areas just inland from towns like Lazise and Bardolino. Here, the silver-green leaves shimmer in the sun as you pass, creating a serene, almost painterly scene. Youโll also find paths winding through ancient vineyards, particularly around Valpolicella or Custoza on the southern side, where the promise of a local wine tasting feels well-earned once you’re back on solid ground.
Then there are routes that plunge you into lush forests, offering cool shade on a warm day, only to suddenly emerge at a panoramic viewpoint. Picture a path cresting a hill above Torri del Benaco, and then, boom โ the entire southern expanse of the lake spreads out below, often with the majestic Monte Baldo rising dramatically on the opposite shore. Up towards the northern end of the lake, near Riva del Garda or Arco, the riding can get more alpine, with trails climbing into the foothills, providing constant elevated perspectives of the water and the surrounding peaks.
Where to get a horse and ride on Lake Garda
The Map below indicates popular spot and equestrian centres where to enjoy this beautiful activity.
What to know before go horseriding on Lake Garda
First off, be completely honest about your skill level when you book. Theyโre not judging you; they just want to pair you with the right horse and the right trail so everyone has a good, safe time. There’s nothing worse than being on a ride that’s too fast or too slow for you.
When it comes to gear, you definitely want to dress appropriately. Leave the swim shorts and fancy dresses for the lakeside aperitivo. You’ll need long pants โ jeans or sturdy leggings work perfectly โ to prevent chafing. For your feet, closed-toe shoes with a bit of a heel are ideal.
Once you’re actually there, the most important piece of advice is to listen to your guide. They know the horses, the terrain, and how to keep everyone safe. It’s more of a workout than you might think too, so ensure you’re well-hydrated and ready for a bit of physical activity.
Horseriding on Lake Garda, the ultimate experience
Alright, so there you have it. If you came to Lake Garda expecting just charming towns and blue water, you now know there’s a whole other dimension waiting to be explored from atop a horse. Horseriding here is more than just an activity; it’s an opportunity to connect with the landscape in a genuine, unhurried way, letting the rhythm of your horse guide you through scenes of unexpected beauty.
