Lake Garda reveals itself best from above. These Lake Garda scenic viewpoints offer views that change with the light and the seasons:
Nago-Torbole
From windsurfing to scenic walks, discover this unmissable destination on Lake Garda.
What to see in Nago Torbole
Nago Torbole is a municipality located on the northern shore of Lake Garda, on the slopes of Monte Altissimo, the peak of the northern part of the Monte Baldo chain. It consists of two main locations: Torbole, which directly overlooks the lake, and Nago, further inland. The breathtaking views and numerous points of historical and cultural interest make Nago Torbole one of the most popular locations on Lake Garda.
It is a prized destination above all for the many enthusiasts of sailing, surfing, windsurfing and other water sports, who gather here every year.
Curiosity This area is famous for the production of Broccolo di Torbole, a prized product that is part of the Slow Food presidium to ensure its preservation. This variety of vegetable is also called ‘son of the wind’, as it is the winter currents that blow over Torbole that determine its particularly sweet taste.
Nago Torbole in pills
THE UNMISSABLE
- Castel Penede
- Sentiero Busatte – Tempesta
- Forti di Nago
top beaches
- Spiaggia Lungolago di Torbole
- Spiaggia delle lucertole
- Spiaggia Lido Blu
weekly market
- In Nago, the first and third week of the month
- In Torbole, the second and fourth week of the month
What to see in Nago Torbole
The two villages of Nago and Torbole have an extraordinary charm, and are considered two of the most beautiful and evocative locations on Lake Garda. It is no coincidence that every year this area hosts countless visitors who look forward to enjoying it and discovering its wonders.
If you are planning to spend your holiday in Nago Torbole, here are some tips on things to see:
Torbole old town centre
Looking at this old town centre, which directly overlooks the lake, one would think one had been catapulted into a postcard.
Its small streets host delightful buildings painted in different colours, which together create an almost fairytale-like harmony.
One tiny yellow building stands out immediately, meticulously decorated with flowers and almost entirely surrounded by water: this is the Casa del Dazio, which used to be the seat of Austrian customs.
Torbole is famous for having hosted and inspired the famous artist Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, whose stay in the town is still testified by a terracotta plaque affixed, not surprisingly, on a building in Piazza Goethe. Then, to enjoy a beautiful view of the old town and the lake, we recommend the Belvedere viewing terrace, which is easily reached on foot.
Church of San Vigilio
In Nago, this particular church probably stands on the ruins of an early Christian place of worship. Although the first records of the chapel date back to 1194, the actual church was built in an extension at the end of the 16th century.
What we can admire today is the result of two further restorations: one following damage during the First World War, and the other following the Second World War, with a further extension. The result is a fusion of inevitably different styles, but extremely pleasant and interesting.
Cauldrons of the Giants
The Marmitte dei giganti (Giants’ potholes) look like high rock walls with a striated surface, almost reminiscent of a lunar landscape: they are wells of glacial origin, caused by the erosive effect of melting glacier water. You can reach this particular site by following the path that connects Torbole to Nago.
NAGO FORTS
This is a defensive military structure built between 1860 and 1861 by the Austrian Empire. The complex actually comprises two limestone buildings, the Upper Fort (larger) and the Lower Fort (smaller), connected by a staircase on which a powder magazine is also located.
The forts, which contained soldiers’ quarters as well as heavy weapons such as several cannons and a howitzer, were part of a ring of about thirty similar military structures erected for strategic purposes.
Following several restorations, completed in 2000, today the forts are in excellent condition: the lower one contains the excellent Al Fortino restaurant, which enjoys an enchanting panoramic view; the upper one, on the other hand, often hosts exhibitions and cultural events, and can also be chosen as a location for weddings and civil unions.
PENEDE CASTLE
This castle was erected in the early 12th century on the top of a high rocky spur between Torbole and Nago. Castel Penede has always exercised a fundamental strategic role, and over the centuries it has been the object of strong contention between various factions, as well as the scene of several wars.
In 1703, during the War of the Spanish Succession, the castle was sacked and destroyed by French troops: since then, all that remains are the striking ruins of the walls, from which one can also enjoy a beautiful view of Torbole and the lake.
CASTEL PENEDE
This castle was erected in the early 12th century on the top of a high rocky spur between Torbole and Nago. Castel Penede has always exercised a fundamental strategic role, and over the centuries it has been the object of strong contention between various factions, as well as the scene of several wars.
In 1703, during the War of the Spanish Succession, the castle was sacked and destroyed by French troops: since then, all that remains are the striking ruins of the walls, from which one can also enjoy a beautiful view of Torbole and the lake.
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Things to do in Nago Torbole
The beaches of Torbole
The wonderful area of Torbole is home to some of the most beautiful and characteristic beaches around Lake Garda. Because of the constant winds, they are particularly popular destinations for water sports enthusiasts such as sailing, surfing, windsurfing or kitesurfing.
The most beautiful beaches in Torbole are:
Beach Lungolago di Torbole: this beach is perfectly equipped and has restaurants, bars and kiosks. There is also a sailing school nearby and the Pavese Park, perfect for relaxing in peace.
Lido Blu Beach: a wide pebble beach, also equipped. Perfect for surfing and sailing enthusiasts.
Lizard Beach: as small as it is fascinating, this beach is located between the lake and a high, vertical rock face. It is popular with climbing enthusiasts.
Conca d’Oro beach: this beach is built on an artificial platform and is ideal for sports such as windsurfing or sailing. The Circolo Vela Torbole sailing club is located nearby.
Beach Al Cor: this is a pebble beach with a large lawn behind it. It has an area reserved for surfers.
BUSATTE – STORM PATH
This marvellous panoramic trail starts at the Busatte park and is characterised by three large flights of metal stairs, totalling almost 400 steps. Contrary to how it may seem, the hike is really not very demanding: the panorama it offers during its 3-hour duration (round trip) is truly breathtaking.
Water sports
As already mentioned, Nago Torbole is one of the most popular destinations for lovers of sports such as sailing, surfing, windsurfing or kitesurfing. This is due to the constant and favourable winds that characterise the northern area of Lake Garda, where the basin narrows.
In Nago Torbole there are several clubs or activities offering not only the rental of the necessary equipment, but also courses to learn and improve.
Nago Torbole and surroundings
Nago Torbole is a municipality on the northern Trentino shore of Lake Garda, very close to Riva del Garda. The latter is also easily accessible by bicycle, via a beautiful 3.5-kilometre cycle path that runs along the lake.
Alternatively, as far as the Veneto side of the lake is concerned, a twenty-minute drive will take you to the beautiful Malcesine, whose marvellous Scaliger Castle is not to be missed.
As in all the best locations overlooking Lake Garda, Nago Torbole also benefits from a ferry service, thanks to which you can reach enchanting villages such as Tremosine or Limone.
Here are the main things to see and do in Nago Torbole: whether you decide to stay in the area or move to neighbouring locations, excellence and fun are guaranteed.
Nago Torbole Lago di Garda: FAQ
How to get to Nago Torbole?
-By car
From the north and south: Brennero state road 12 or the A22 motorway, Rovereto Sud-Lago di Garda Nord exit. Then continue along the SS240.
From Brescia or Trento: take the SS45bis Gardesana Occidentale, heading north or south respectively.
-By train
The nearest railway station is Rovereto. From there take the Trentino Trasporti bus line B332.
-By plane
The nearest airports to Nago Torbole are Valerio Catullo Airport in Verona, Gabriele D’Annunzio Airport in Brescia and Orio al Serio Airport in Bergamo. From these, continue using public transport or hire a car to reach Nago Torbole.
Where to park in Nago Torbole?
Here is where to park your car in Torbole:
-Parking in Via Strada Piccola: free and very close to the centre.
-Parking in Via alle Peschere: free and very close to the centre.
-Parking Panorama: in Via delle Brae, for a fee and very close to the lake.
In Nago, on the other hand:
-Parking Coel: fee-paying, in Via del Trenim, attached to the centre.
-Parking in Via Gioacchino Bertoldi: free and close to the centre.
What to do in Nago Torbole if it rains?
In the event of rain during your holiday in Nago Torbole, an excellent idea is to take shelter by discovering the little shops and boutiques scattered between the two villages.
Obviously, this would be an opportunity to dedicate some time to tasting some of the local cuisine, rich in excellent typical products such as the famous Broccolo di Torbole.
A nice alternative could be the prestigious MAG – Museo Alto Garda – inside the Rocca di Riva del Garda, easily reached by car.
What to do in Nago Torbole with children?
There are various activities suitable for children to do in Nago Torbole. A first option is a nice walk in nature, perhaps passing by the Marmitte dei Giganti (Giants’ Cauldrons), which create amazement and curiosity.
An alternative is the Busatte Adventure Park, very close to Torbole: a park that offers five courses suspended among the trees, distinguished by level of difficulty. Here your children can have fun venturing into nature thanks to Tibetan bridges, lianas and pulleys, all in total safety thanks to the carabiner system.
For the more sporty, we also recommend trying a windsurfing course, provided by the various clubs and schools in the area.
In what region is Nago Torbole located?
Nago Torbole is located in the Trentino-Alto Adige region, in the province of Trento. It is a popular tourist destination due to its location on the northern shore of Lake Garda.
Other curiosities about Nago-Torbole:
A Guide to Camper Stopovers at Lake Garda, town by town
Discover the best sports on Lake Garda including sailing, canyoning, trekking, paragliding and many others!
Discover the weekly markets on Lake Garda and download our free pdf calendar.