The Sentiero dei Contrabbandieri on Lake Garda, just above Pregasina between Riva del Garda and the Ledro Valley, is one of the most spectacular and unusual itineraries on the western shore of the lake.
Suspended between history, adrenaline and vertical terrain, this route is hard to define in a single way. It is not simply a via ferrata, nor just a mountaineering itinerary, but a unique experience carved into the rock directly above the lake, in a dizzying setting that surprises from the very first metres.
Once used by smugglers to transport salt and tobacco between the Kingdom of Italy and the Austro-Hungarian Empire, today this historic trail offers an authentic and unconventional adventure. Progression takes place on sections equipped with cables, bolts and pitons, alternating exposed traverses and physical passages on vertical terrain, before a short final abseil completes the experience in an intense and exciting way.
Highlights
- One of the most spectacular itineraries on the western side of Lake Garda.
- A route suspended on vertical walls directly above the lake.
- Historic setting linked to smuggling between Italy and the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
- Sections equipped with cables, bolts and pitons.
- Short rope abseil.
- Continuous views over Lake Garda.
- An experience between via ferrata and mountaineering itinerary.
Best for
This route is suitable for sporty, motivated people with good physical condition and no vertigo.
It is ideal for those who want to experience something different from classic via ferratas and approach a more mountaineering-style progression in a vertical environment.
Program
- Meet the guide near Pregasina and approach the access trail. After preparing the technical equipment, enter the equipped route.
- The itinerary follows the historic smugglers’ line along the wall, alternating exposed traverses, vertical passages and sections equipped with steel cable. The environment is constantly suspended above Lake Garda, with spectacular views over the western shore.
- The final section includes a short rope abseil and the ascent along the return trail back to the starting point, completing an intense and highly scenic itinerary.
Pricing & Logistics
- The cost of the ascent varies depending on the number of participants and the chosen program.
- The price includes: Mountain Guide service, itinerary planning, logistical organisation and technical equipment.
- The price does not include: transfers, personal expenses and any extras.
- Times: 9:00 AM–1:00 PM or 2:00 PM–6:00 PM.
Requirements
- Good general physical condition.
- Sure-footedness on exposed terrain.
- No major problems with exposure.
- Basic experience in vertical environments.
Season
From spring to autumn, and also in mid-winter on the sunniest days.
Why a Mountain Guide
- Safety on exposed and technical sections.
- Support with progression on vertical terrain.
- Assessment of route conditions.
- Management of group pace and safety.
- A more complete and conscious experience.
Your Experience
Every step follows the natural line of the rock above Lake Garda, in a setting that alternates deep silence with spectacular openings over the lake. It is an intense and engaging experience, where the smugglers’ past comes back to life along one of the most fascinating and scenic lines on Lake Garda, leaving a strong and authentic memory of adventure on the wall.
Do you want to experience one of the most incredible and unique routes on Lake Garda?
Contact us to receive more information, check available dates or organise a tailor-made program together.