Malcesine: Visiting the Pearl of Lake Garda

Malcesine is a charming medieval village located on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, in the province of Verona. This jewel of the Riviera degli Olivi stands out for its characteristic Scaliger Castle overlooking the lake and its privileged position at the foot of Monte Baldo.

Curiosities about Malcesine

The historic center of Malcesine is situated at 89 meters above sea level, while the municipal territory extends to the slopes of Monte Baldo, which rises over 2,200 meters.

The inhabitants of Malcesine are called "malcesinesi." The local dialect is a variant of Venetian with Trentino influences, due to the village’s location at the border between Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige.

What to See in Malcesine

Malcesine is famous for its Scaliger Castle, an imposing medieval fortress perched above the lake, and for the cable car that takes visitors up Monte Baldo, offering spectacular views. It is also known for its picturesque lakeside promenade, beaches, and vibrant tourist atmosphere.

The Historic Center

The medieval village of Malcesine is a true gem nestled between the lake and the castle, characterized by a fascinating maze of cobbled alleys, stairways, and covered passages that suddenly open onto small panoramic squares.

The medieval houses, with their characteristic flower-adorned balconies and stone facades, create a timeless atmosphere. The low arcades and ancient artisan shops tell stories of centuries past, while the aromas from local trattorias mix with the fresh lake breeze.

Particularly enchanting is the view at sunset when the warm evening light reflects on the waters of Lake Garda and the ancient stone houses, creating a magical atmosphere that has captivated artists and poets over the centuries, including the renowned Goethe.

To fully explore Malcesine’s historic center, it is recommended to dedicate at least 2-3 hours to a leisurely visit, strolling through the characteristic alleys without rushing. The most scenic moments for photography are at sunrise, when the village awakens quietly, and at sunset, which bathes everything in a beautifully photogenic golden light.

Keep in mind that the historic center is entirely pedestrianized and paved with original cobblestones, so comfortable shoes are recommended. During your walk, take the time to explore the many artisan shops and local stores, where you can find a variety of regional products, from ceramics to Garda olive oil, gastronomic specialties, and artistic souvenirs.

Points of Interest

• Piazza Statuto: The heart of social life
• Church of Santo Stefano (15th century): Featuring paintings from the Veronese school
• Via Capitanato: The main shopping street
• Old Port: With traditional fishing boats
• Ancient walls: With a scenic walking path

Scaliger Castle

The Scaliger Castle, built in the first millennium AD, is one of the best-preserved castles on Lake Garda.

To make the most of your visit, it is advisable to plan your trip in the early morning or late afternoon when the number of visitors is lower, and the lighting is perfect for photography.

Wearing comfortable shoes is essential, as the visit includes many staircases leading to different levels of the castle. It is worth setting aside extra time to linger at the tower, where you can take breathtaking panoramic photos of the lake and surrounding mountains.

To enhance the experience, audio guides in multiple languages are available, providing insights into the history and secrets of this ancient fortress.

Visit Details

• Opening hours: Open daily from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM (summer schedule). Currently temporarily closed (Source: Google Profile)
• Entrance fee: €6 for adults, €4 reduced, free for children under 6
• Visit duration: 1–1.5 hours
• Accessibility: Staircases present, limited access for disabled visitors

Main point of interest inside

• Natural History Museum of Monte Baldo: houses a collection of local flora and fauna.
• Goethe Hall: dedicated to the famous poet who sketched the castle here in 1786.
• Castle Tower (35 meters): offers a 360° panoramic view of the lake.
• Fishing Museum: exhibits traditional fishing tools and historical documentation.
• Weapons Courtyard: used for summer events and performances.
• Exhibition Halls: hosts temporary art and photography exhibitions.

Monte Baldo

Monte Baldo is a majestic mountain range straddling Veneto and Trentino, overlooking Lake Garda. Known as the "Garden of Europe" for its extraordinary biodiversity, it is home to over 1,900 plant species, many of which are rare or endemic.

With its highest peak, Monte Altissimo di Nago, reaching 2,218 meters, it offers breathtaking views stretching from the lake to the Alps. A perfect destination for hikers, skiers, and botany enthusiasts, Monte Baldo is a harmonious blend of wild nature and landscapes shaped by human activity over the centuries.

Available Activities

• Hiking on over 40 marked trails of varying difficulty
• Mountain biking on dedicated routes
• Paragliding from the summit (with certified instructors)
• Skiing and snowboarding in winter
• Alpine flora observation (over 1,900 different species)
• Nordic walking
• Nature photography

Scenic Viewpoints & Mountain Huts

Monte Baldo offers spectacular panoramic views from several peaks. Cima delle Pozzette (2,132m) provides an unparalleled vista of Lake Garda and the Brenta Dolomites, while from Cima Valdritta, the highest point at 2,218m, you can see as far as the Maritime Alps on clear days. The panoramic terrace at the upper cable car station, easily accessible to all, offers a stunning 360° view of the lake and surrounding mountains.

For a well-deserved break during your hike, the area features several mountain huts:

Rifugio Damiano Chiesa (2,060m) serves traditional mountain dishes, Baita dei Forti offers a more casual menu with local specialties. Rifugio Graziani (approx. 1,600m) is an excellent stop for hikers and cyclists and Rifugio Monte Baldo provides a great base for trekkers, with overnight accommodations available.

Monte Baldo Cable Car

The Malcesine-Monte Baldo Cable Car is the most convenient way to reach the summit. Below are some useful details.

Technical Details

• Departure Station: Malcesine (89m)
• Arrival Station: Monte Baldo (1,760m)
• Ascent Duration: 10 minutes
• 360° Rotating Cabins
• Capacity: 45 people per cabin
• Opening Hours: Vary according to the season
• Price: €10 round trip for adults (€7 reduced fare)

Palazzo dei Capitani

A historic 14th-century building, this splendid example of Venetian architecture is a must-see.

Today, Palazzo dei Capitani serves as a vibrant cultural center, hosting various activities throughout the year. The historic spaces accommodate temporary art exhibitions featuring local and international artists, while the main hall is an ideal venue for conferences and prestigious cultural events.

The palace is also one of the most sought-after locations for civil wedding ceremonies, thanks to its prime lakeside position and elegant interiors. During the summer season, the inner courtyard transforms into a charming open-air auditorium for classical and contemporary music concerts.

Highlights

• Frescoed facade featuring the emblem of the Serenissima
• Ground-floor loggia with white stone columns
• Main hall with a coffered ceiling
• Panoramic balcony overlooking the lake

Opening Hours & Visits

• Open daily from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM
• Free entry to common areas (ground floor and garden)
• Guided tours available by reservation
• Wheelchair accessible

What to See Around Malcesine?

The surroundings of Malcesine also offer fascinating attractions that can enrich your trip, providing unique and enjoyable experiences. Here are some highlights:

• Cassone di Malcesine: A charming fishing village just a few kilometers from the center, famous for the Aril River, considered the shortest river in the world. In Cassone, you can visit the historic port with traditional boats, the Fishing Museum displaying ancient tools, and the Church of San Giovanni Battista.
• Torbole & Riva del Garda: Ideal destinations for windsurfing and sailing enthusiasts.
• Sanctuary of Montecastello: Perched on a rocky spur above Tignale, offering breathtaking views.

Beaches & Swimming Areas

Although Malcesine’s beaches are not particularly large, they provide excellent spots for relaxation and sunbathing.

Val di Sogno Beach is the most peaceful option, a sheltered bay with both free and equipped areas. The gently sloping seabed makes it ideal for families with children.

Navene Beach is another option, located slightly outside the town, making it less crowded. Visitors can relax on grassy areas along the lake or small pebble beaches.

For those seeking a more intimate atmosphere, we recommend the small coves north of the castle, accessible via the lakeside path. These are quiet and scenic spots, though they require a short walk to reach.

Main Swimming Areas

• Paina Beach: Sandy and equipped
• Beach below the Castle: Pebbles and rocks
• Val di Sogno Beach: Ideal for families
• Cassone Beach: Quiet and secluded
• Navene Beach: Peaceful, away from the town center
• Campagnola Beach: Perfect for water sports

Where to Park in Malcesine

The main parking area is located on Via Gardesana, about 200 meters from the ferry dock. Other available parking options include:

• Monte Baldo Parking (covered)
• Port Parking
• Navene Parking
• Lungolago Paina Parking (near the castle)
• Retelino Parking (ideal for visitors coming from the north)
• Via Campogrande Parking (near the port)

Where to Stay in Malcesine: Hotels & B&Bs

Malcesine offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury lakefront hotels to charming B&Bs. Here are some recommendations:

• Hotel Capri: stunning lake views and a pool.
• Ambienthotel Luna Rossa: just a short walk from the town center.
• B&B Casa Benamati: cozy and surrounded by nature.
• Hotel Castello Lake Front: ideal for a romantic getaway.

Where to Eat in Malcesine: Recommended Restaurants

Malcesine offers a diverse culinary experience, featuring traditional lake and Venetian cuisine. Visitors can choose from cozy trattorias along the lakeside, elegant restaurants in the historic center, or rustic osterias on the slopes of Monte Baldo. Here, you can savor local specialties such as freshwater fish, Garda olive oil, and Valpolicella wines, all accompanied by breathtaking lake views.

Here are some recommended dining spots:

• Speck Stube: alpine specialties with a view of the castle (temporarily closed)
• La Pace: traditional local dishes and fresh fish specialties in a cozy setting with panoramic lake views
• Vecchia Malcesine: Michelin-starred, perfect for a fine dining experience (temporarily closed)
• Ristorante Al Gondoliere – Classic regional cuisine with a lake view
• Da Pedro – A welcoming restaurant serving local specialties

How to Get to Malcesine

By Car

• From Milan: A4 towards Venice, exit at Peschiera del Garda
• From Venice: A4 towards Milan, exit at Peschiera del Garda
• From Brenner Pass: A22, exit at Rovereto Sud

• Malcesine is accessible by car via SS249 Gardesana Orientale. The closest motorway exits are Rovereto Sud (A22) for those arriving from the north and Affi (A22) for those coming from the south.

By Train

The nearest train station is Peschiera del Garda, where you can take a bus or ferry to Malcesine.

By Bus

Several bus lines connect Malcesine to major towns around Lake Garda and to Verona.

By Ferry

Malcesine is linked by ferry to Limone sul Garda, Riva del Garda, and other destinations via Navigazione Laghi services.

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