Riva del Garda is a fantastic base for exploring the waters, mountains, and countryside of northern Italy. Unlike more touristy spots, Riva offers a genuine mix of outdoor adventures and local flavor. We especially love the Lake Garda Cycling Experience for its combination of scenic views and flexibility, and the Secret Ledge route, for those craving a bit of adrenaline with breathtaking vistas. Whether you’re into cycling, wine tasting, or a peaceful sunset picnic, Riva’s diverse options make it possible to tailor your trip to your interests.
If you want to get a feel for the region’s beauty on two wheels, or enjoy a relaxing afternoon sampling local wines, this list has a lot to offer. Keep reading for detailed descriptions of each tour, so you can pick the one that best matches your style and schedule.
Quick Overview of Riva del Garda Tours & Experiences
Here’s a quick overview of the best tours in Riva del Garda, covering a variety of interests:
- Lake Garda: Cycling Experience Around the Lake — a 6-hour road cycling adventure showcasing stunning lake and mountain views.
- Lake Garda: Secret Ledge — a 5-hour adrenaline-filled route with exposed sections and panoramic lake overlooks.
- Lake Garda: Winery Visit with Wine and Olive Oil Tasting — a 2-hour tasting session perfect for wine lovers.
- Trentino Agriconda: Picnic al Tramonto Cesto Maserac — a 3-hour sunset picnic surrounded by vineyards and nature.
Now, let’s explore each one in detail to help you choose the best fit.
1. Lake Garda: Cycling Experience Around the Lake
At number 1, the Lake Garda: Cycling Experience Around the Lake offers a fantastic way to see the lakeside landscape without the hassle of driving. This 6-hour road cycling tour takes you along some of the most spectacular roads in Lombardy, with options to customize your route — whether you want a few extra climbs or a gentler ride. Cycling here is a great way to enjoy the crystal-clear waters and towering mountains that surround Lake Garda.
What makes this tour stand out is the freedom it offers. You start with a pickup from Riva del Garda, then continue to Bardolino for a 30-minute break before looping back. It’s perfect for active travelers who want to experience the scenery up close and personal. The reviews are strong, with a 4.6/5 rating, citing the “spectacular environment” and the ability to tailor the ride as key highlights.
This tour is best suited for those who enjoy cycling and want a full-day adventure that combines exercise, nature, and excellent views. It’s an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a balanced mix of activity and scenery.
Bottom Line: An energetic, customizable cycling tour that lets you soak up Lake Garda’s stunning landscapes at your own pace.
2. Lake Garda: Secret Ledge
For thrill-seekers, the Lake Garda: Secret Ledge is a top pick. This 5-hour route is designed for those wanting a bit of adrenaline while enjoying epic views. The route is technically not difficult, but its exposed sections make it exciting. Overlooking Lake Garda, the trail offers some of the most spectacular scenery, with sweeping vistas and a rush of wind in your hair.
Led by a professional guide, Giovanni, previous participants describe the experience as “fantastic” with “stunning views.” The route is suitable from September to June, thanks to Italy’s favorable climate. The ride features adrenaline-pumping sections that are balanced with scenic overlooks, making it perfect for intermediate riders who want a thrill without complex technical challenges.
This experience is ideal for adventure travelers who want to combine a scenic ride with a dose of excitement. The only potential downside is that exposed sections might be intimidating for absolute beginners, but the route’s technical difficulty remains manageable.
Bottom Line: A high-adrenaline route with breathtaking views—great for adventure lovers eager for a challenge.
3. Lake Garda: Winery Visit with Wine and Olive Oil Tasting
If you prefer a more relaxed, flavorful experience, the Lake Garda: Winery Visit provides an immersive look at Italy’s renowned wine and olive oil production. This 2-hour tour takes you through a family-run farm where you can walk through the vineyards and visit the oil mill and winery. The highlight is — naturally — the tasting session, where you sample regional wines and fresh olive oils.
Rated 4.8/5, this tour offers an authentic taste of the local flavors and traditions. Visitors often comment on the knowledgeable hosts and the opportunity to learn about the process behind the region’s culinary staples. The experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Riva del Garda, making it convenient and stress-free.
This experience is perfect for foodies and those interested in local culture. It’s also a good choice for travelers with limited time but who want a memorable culinary experience. While it doesn’t include a full vineyard tour, the tasting and explanations make it well worth the short duration.
Bottom Line: A delicious, educational experience ideal for wine and olive oil lovers wanting a taste of Italy’s culinary craft.
4. Trentino Agriconda: Picnic al Tramonto Cesto Maserac
Finally, the Picnic al Tramonto Cesto Maserac offers a peaceful, scenic way to end a day. This 3-hour sunset picnic takes you along a path through vineyards and raspberry fields to a private seating area, where you’ll enjoy a basket of local, zero-kilometer products. The emphasis on fresh, local ingredients guarantees quality and authenticity.
Rated 4.8/5, this experience is about relaxation and savoring Italy’s simple pleasures. While waiting for the sunset, you’ll be surrounded by nature, with panoramic views that enhance the moment. The guided walk between vineyards and raspberry patches adds a touch of adventure to the peaceful setting.
Ideal for couples or anyone wanting a quiet, memorable end to their day, this picnic balances scenic beauty with culinary delight. Be prepared for a leisurely pace and a focus on local flavors.
Bottom Line: A tranquil, scenic sunset picnic perfect for romantic evenings or anyone seeking a taste of authentic Italian countryside.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When deciding among these options, consider your interests, fitness level, and time constraints. If you’re energetic and love physical activity, the cycling tours—either the full Lake Garda experience or the adrenaline-inducing Secret Ledge — are excellent. For a more leisurely, sensory experience, the wine and olive oil tasting offers a delicious escape into local flavors. If you’re after a peaceful, scenic end to your day, the sunset picnic delivers a memorable, relaxing experience.
Think about your schedule too: the cycling tour takes a full day, while tastings and picnics are shorter and more relaxed. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the wine tasting or adrenaline routes.
Final Thoughts
Riva del Garda offers a versatile range of tours and experiences that cater to different interests and activity levels. For an active day, the cycling experience provides stunning views and the chance to move at your own pace. Adventure travelers will appreciate the Secret Ledge route’s mix of adrenaline and scenery, while food lovers can indulge at the wine and olive oil tasting.
For those seeking serenity and a taste of Italy’s countryside, the sunset picnic is hard to beat. No matter which you choose, these experiences will deepen your appreciation of Riva del Garda’s natural beauty and local traditions. Remember to book early, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and enjoy an unforgettable adventure in northern Italy.