Writer: Helena Bergström
In the far north of Italy's Lake Garda, you'll find Riva del Garda, a stunning place surrounded by dramatic mountains and shimmering green waters. We spent a few days here at the end of our motorhome holiday in southern Europe, enjoying the beach as well as several excursions.
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Riva del Garda
Riva del Garda enjoys an incredibly beautiful location on Lake Garda, with the high mountains as a backdrop.
Riva del Garda is located at the very top of the northern part of Lake Garda, in the Trentino-South Tyrol region.
Nice seafront and beach
Along the entire length of Riva del Garda is a lovely promenade, where you can stroll past anchored small boats and lawns with sunbathers.
Sunbathing and swimming are popular here, but so are windsurfing and kitesurfing. There are extremely good winds for these water sports in this part of Lake Garda.
A cosy town on northern Lake Garda
The town of Riva del Garda can be described with words like cosy or charming, or perhaps beautiful. Colourful houses line the squares and the waterfront. The outdoor cafés are next to each other, as are the small shops and ice-cream parlours. It really is a holiday deluxe!
The medieval castle is also located here Rocca di Riva, originally built in 1124 to defend the harbour. During the 14th century, the castle was rebuilt by the Scaligeri family, inspired by other fortresses around the lake, and today it houses a museum with historical artefacts and regional art.
Excursion to Lago di Tenno
From Riva del Garda we made an excursion to Lago di Tenno. The lake is located about 20 minutes north of the city and the road there offers steep winding roads, lined with stunning views.
We travelled by motorhome and it was perfectly fine, although exciting in places. At a narrow passage, monitored by strict traffic lights, we had to fold in the rear-view mirrors to slowly glide past the massive walls of houses ...
Once there, we managed to park in one of the dedicated car parks, where we paid a small fee before walking down to the lake.
The colours of the water and the mountains really tempt you to take out your camera. Or to just sit down for a while and lose yourself in the view ...
And yes, people are sunbathing and swimming by the lake, and it is also popular to glide around on some kind of board. There were some tourists when we were here, in early September, while the atmosphere was peaceful and calm.
Excursion to Limone sul Garda
Another great destination, based in Riva del Garda, is the small town of Limone sul Garda, where everything is about lemons - lemon ice cream, lemon lemon lemonade, lemon crockery. Absolutely marvellous! The easiest way to get here is by car or on a boat trip.
READ MORE: Limone on Lake Garda - a declaration of love for lemons
Excursion to Strada della Forra
Not far from Simone sul Garda you'll find the serpentine Strada della Forra. As well as offering dramatic views, this road played an important role in the James Bond film Quantum of Solace. If you want to experience this road then a slightly smaller vehicle is the way to go, which is why we hired a car!
READ MORE: Strada della Forra - spectacular serpentine road
Where can you stay or park your motorhome?
We visited Riva del Garda for the first time almost exactly ten years ago, and then there was a super charming nature campsite / caravan park with direct access to the sea. This was no longer there, but a decent alternative is the caravan park Riva del Garda, 10 Via Brione. It has all the services you need and is within walking distance of the town, at a reasonable price. If you want to pay a little more, there are a few campsites near the site, all in excellent locations.
More to see and do in the neighbourhood
The entire area around Lake Garda is fantastically beautiful. Please read our guide to Lake Garda! We can recommend visits to, among other things:
Have you visited Riva del Garda?
Have you visited Riva del Garda? How was your experience? Please tell us!
FAQ – frequently asked questions about Riva del Garda
Where is Riva del Garda located?
Riva del Garda is located at the northernmost point of Lake Garda, in the Trentino-Alto Adige region of northern Italy. The town is beautifully situated between the lake and the high mountains and is one of the larger resorts around Lake Garda.
What is Riva del Garda famous for?
Riva del Garda is known for its dramatic location between Lake Garda and the mountains, its historic town centre and its great opportunities for outdoor activities. The area is particularly popular for hiking, cycling, climbing and various water sports.
What is there to see and do in Riva del Garda?
Stroll through the historic center and along the lake, visit the central square Piazza III Novembre and see the medieval tower Torre Apponale. You can also visit the MAG – Museo Alto Garda museum or make excursions to nature experiences in the surroundings.
Can you swim in Riva del Garda?
Yes, there are several beaches and swimming opportunities in and around Riva del Garda. The beaches are mainly made up of pebbles and grassy areas rather than sand, and the clear lake water is inviting for swimming during the warmer months.
Why is Riva del Garda popular for water sports?
The northern part of Lake Garda has wind conditions that are very suitable for windsurfing and sailing, among other things. The combination of the lake, the winds and the surrounding mountains has made Riva del Garda a well-known destination for those who like an active holiday lifestyle.
Can you hike at Riva del Garda?
Yes, the area around Riva del Garda is very popular for hiking. There is everything from easy walks to more demanding trails in the mountains. A famous excursion destination is the Cascata del Varone waterfall, a few kilometers from the center.
Can you take a boat from Riva del Garda?
Yes, there are boats from Riva del Garda to other towns around Lake Garda. Boating is a nice option for day trips and allows you to experience the lake without having to drive along the sometimes slow and busy roads.
How much time do you need in Riva del Garda?
One day is enough to discover the center and walk along the lake, but if you also want to hike, cycle, swim or take excursions in the surrounding area, Riva del Garda is a good base for several days.
When is the best time to visit Riva del Garda?
Spring, summer and early autumn are popular periods. Spring and autumn are particularly suitable for hiking, cycling and sightseeing, while summer is best for those who want to combine excursions with swimming and water sports.
Is Riva del Garda worth a visit?
Yes, especially if you appreciate the combination of city life, lake and mountains. Riva del Garda has a different character than many of the resorts further south on Lake Garda and is particularly suitable for those who want to combine sightseeing with nature and activities.
Can you combine Riva del Garda with other places on Lake Garda?
Yes. Riva del Garda is well located for visiting places like Limone sul Garda, Torbole and Malcesine. The boat traffic on the lake also makes it possible to combine several places without always having to take the car.
You might also like:
What to do in Sirmione - 12 tips for a gem on Lake Garda
Visiting Bosa in Sardinia - the colourful town
Things to do in Cagliari - 14 tips for the Sardinian capital
Visiting Pompeii - a time capsule from the year 79
Sigurtá and Borghetto Garden Park near Lake Garda
Guide to Lake Garda - 17 tips for experiences around the lake
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bmlarsreseblogg says:
The area around the whole Lake Garda is so beautiful! It's been over ten years since we were there so maybe it's time for a return visit!
27 September 2025 - 9:53
Helena says:
It is really nice around Lake Garda! For us it was also ten years ago last time ... 😉
27 September 2025 - 19:26
BP says:
The whole Lake Garda and its surroundings are beautiful I think. And I, who don't like sand between my toes, am happy that I can choose grass beaches:-)
Then I just have to ask if you have collaborated with AI to write this post!!!
PS. Had a good laugh at your comment about the mouse. With such travel destinations, I almost understand that the mouse wanted to test the motorhome life. Besides, Peter is an excellent cook, so...;-) DS.
27 September 2025 - 18:58
Helena says:
I can agree with you, I can appreciate a sandy beach sometimes, but then I get tired of the sand after a while ... ) And so ... no! If I sound like AI, I have to get a grip, I do NOT write with the help AI! People around me complain that I am negative about AI, and when it comes to writing, I am! I will never, ever write with the help of AI. I LOVE writing 🙂 However, I do use AI from time to time for practical things that I need help with quickly (e.g. "can you give me the coordinates to the bus stop?") 😉
27 September 2025 - 19:31
znogge says:
The Lake Garda area is on our list, for sure. And maybe next year we'll go. I have only heard good things about the whole area.
27 September 2025 - 21:12
Helena says:
Agree that it is incredibly nice around Lake Garda! I can't think of anything negative about that area, possibly that it's crowded with tourists in some places, at some times ... 😉
29 September 2025 - 8:01
Lena - gott för själen says:
Oh, Garda has been on the wish list for a long time. It seems incredibly beautiful! But it may be a little off season. Do not like too many people in those places.
Hug Lena
13 November 2025 - 5:53