The Busatte Tempesta trail: when Mountain and Lake become one
The Busatte Tempesta trail is one of the most fascinating hiking itineraries in the Lake Garda area. Located in Trentino, this coastal path offers breathtaking views and an immersive experience in nature.
This trail is popular with hikers of all levels, as it combines the beauty of its natural landscape with a range of touristic facilities and structures that make it easy to approach and enjoy.
The Busatte Tempesta Trail - where it is located
The trail runs along the north-eastern coast of Lake Garda, specifically between Busatte, a hamlet of Torbole sul Garda, and Tempesta, a small village that marks the border between Trentino and Veneto.
The position of the trail will allow you to enjoy spectacular views of the lake and of the surrounding mountains, while being completely surrounded by the natural environment that is typical of the Garda Trentino region. You will start your itinerary from Parco delle Busatte, a green area equipped for outdoor recreation - from there, the trail heads south, towards Tempesta.
Duration, length and difficulty level
The Busatte Tempesta trail has a total length of about 11 km. The average walking time is between 2.5 and 3 hours (round trip), depending on the pace of your walk and on the scenic stops you wish to make. The total elevation gain is about 300 metres, which makes it accessible to most hikers.
However, it is important to remember that along the trail there are some sections featuring metal stairs (400 steps in total), which can be challenging for those who suffer from vertigo or who are not used to walking over rough terrain.
The difficulty level is generally considered average, as it does not require any particular technical skills - however, it is recommended to wear suitable hiking shoes in order to ensure a good grip, especially in the steepest sections or on rainy days, when the ground can be slippery. It is also useful to take some water with you, as there are few water sources along the route to refill your supply.
Despite its length, the trail is not too steep or dangerous, and it is also suitable for families, provided that children are used to walking on uneven terrain (no buggies or prams).
Panoramic viewpoints along the Busatte Tempesta trail
One of the main reasons why the Busatte Tempesta Trail is so popular and famous would be its many panoramic viewpoints. During your hike, you have the opportunity to admire some breathtaking views of Lake Garda, with a privileged viewpoint from the northern shore of the lake up to its central part, including locations such as Riva del Garda, Limone sul Garda and Malcesine, with its impressive Scaliger castle.
Among the most spectacular viewpoints there are the aforementioned metal stairs, which will allow you to overcome some steep cliffs and access observation points that would otherwise be impossible to reach. In particular, the Corno di Bò staircase is one of the most iconic sections of the trail, with a 180-degree panoramic view of the lake and of the surrounding mountains.
Opening and closing periods throughout the year
The trail is generally open all year round, but weather conditions may affect its accessibility. In winter or during periods of heavy rain the most exposed sections, such as the aforementioned metal stairs, can become slippery, making your hike less safe. It is always recommended to check the weather conditions before setting off and, in case of bad weather, to consider postponing your hike.
In summer, the trail is quite crowded, so it might be useful to start your hike in the early morning hours, in order to avoid the heat and crowds.
There are no fences or gates that physically close the route, but in winter or in particular weather conditions, some sections may be marked as not accessible for safety reasons.
Please remember: unfortunately, the trail is currently closed due to a landslide that occurred in November 2023. The trail was supposed to reopen in spring, but it actually remained closed all summer. We are waiting for news from the local institutions.
Free access or ticket?
The access to the Busatte Tempesta Trail is free and it does not require any kind of ticket. However, parking areas near the starting point may be subject to a fee, especially during peak tourist season.
It is therefore a good idea to find out about costs and payment methods in advance, as some areas may require the purchase of a daily ticket or the use of parking meters.
Where to Park
The most popular starting point for the hike is Parco delle Busatte, which offers a convenient parking area close to the beginning of the trail. The parking area is not very large, so on busy days it can be difficult to find a parking spot - that is why it is advisable to arrive early.
Alternatively, you can park your car in Torbole sul Garda - from there, you can reach Parco delle Busatte with just a short walk (1.7 KM). Parking in the historic centre, which is a restricted traffic zone, must be avoided.
Is there an adventure park along the trail?
Yes, there is an adventure park in Parco delle Busatte, which is ideal for those who want to combine a hike with a fun and adrenaline-filled activity. The adventure park features tree-top trails, suitable for both adults and children, with different levels of difficulty.
It is a good option for families, or for those looking for a more dynamic experience after their walk.
The Busatte Tempesta trail - where to eat
There are no mountain huts or refreshment points along the Busatte Tempesta trail, so it is advisable to bring with you a packed lunch and some water. However, on your way back, both in Torbole and near Parco delle Busatte, there are several bars and restaurants where you can get something to eat.
Especially in Torbole there are many restaurants with panoramic terraces offering excellent Trentino and Italian traditional dishes, as well as some wonderful views of the lake.
Other attractions and locations in the surrounding area
The Busatte Tempesta trail is located in an area full of tourist attractions. In addition to the aforementioned Parco delle Busatte and the village of Torbole, the nearby Riva del Garda, a picturesque town famous for its historic centre and its lakeside promenade, is also worth a visit. History lovers will be able to explore the Rocca di Riva, a medieval castle that now houses a civic museum, or the Bastione di Riva, an ancient fortress that dominates the lake from above.
Another interesting attraction is Monte Baldo, which can be easily reached by cable car from Malcesine. This mountain range offers an extensive network of hiking trails and spectacular views of Lake Garda, perfect for those who wish to continue their adventure in nature.
In conclusion, the Busatte Tempesta trail is the ideal destination for those who wish to combine sport, nature and relaxation in one of the most beautiful areas in northern Italy.
Discover at the following link The most beautiful hiking trails on Lake Garda
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