If you’re looking for a mountain bike ride around Lake Garda that everyone, from serious enduro riders to the whole family, will enjoy, then Rifugio San Pietro is the perfect choice. It offers an incredible experience with breathtaking views of Lake Garda.
This mountain lodge, nestled in the hills, features large green spaces and a playground, all while providing stunning lake views.
Nestled in the mountains, this mountain lodge boasts expansive green lawns and a playground, all while offering stunning views of the lake. And for parents seeking a thrill, the “Per Elisa” Track offers an exhilarating downhill. While this post focuses on MTB and enduro trails, you can also reach the Rifugio by hiking (we recommend starting from Canale di Tenno and following the hiking directions).
Passing Through: Tenno, Canale di Tenno, and Beyond – A Scenic Route Up
We began our ride at the Chiarano football field parking lot in Arco, proceeding to Tenno via the main road and then onto a gravel road starting from the Volta dei No village. All the roads we traversed are accessible even with a large child trailer; however, the rider towing the trailer should be well-trained or on a e-bike, especially considering the overall ascent and the steep sections.
The ascent to Tenno is gentle, affording captivating vistas with minimal traffic. En route, you’ll pass the Varone Waterfall, a tempting detour best saved for another day. Tenno village, with its castle and nearby lake, offers additional allure.
If you’re enchanted by medieval villages, a must-visit destination is Canale di Tenno, situated just beyond Tenno. It has gained recognition as one of the most exquisite “borghi” (villages) in Italy. Continuing upward, the road becomes steeper, culminating in the parking area near Rifugio San Pietro, where beautiful scenery awaits to refresh you after the ascent. Just another 20 minutes of climbing and you’ll reach your destination.
Rifugio San Pietro
Rifugio San Pietro is a lovely place! It’s also easy to reach by hiking, so you’ll find many families there, yet it still feels peaceful.
They serve delicious food made with local ingredients. We highly recommend our local favorite, “bigoi alle sarde.” For children, the barley soup with apples and local cheese is very popular.
Every time we’ve visited, even in winter, it’s been warm enough to eat outside on the beautiful terrace. While there’s a changing table in the restroom, it’s not heated, but you can easily change your little one on the large field outside. If you plan to eat there, we strongly recommend reserving your table beforehand.
The playground is quite small, featuring a swing (suitable for babies), a slide, and an inclined plane. However, the spacious lawn can accommodate all sorts of play for children of any age.
Thrilling Descents: The “Per Elisa” Track and Beyond
For the adrenaline junkie in the family, the “Per Elisa” Track offers an exhilarating downhill experience, albeit, of course, not suitable for trailers. Meanwhile, those with trailers must retrace their ascent route.
Our enduro enthusiast savored the rocky terrain of the Per Elisa Track before rejoining us at the Varone waterfall, where a visit may be in order.
This bike ride is for everyone, from families to enduro fans, and Rifugio San Pietro is definitely a must-go if you’re visiting Lake Garda.
Explore more family bike rides in Trentino in our dedicated section!
