Ciclovia del Garda will bypass the most challenging stretches of the Gardesana Occidentale road via the lake: a project for two dedicated ferries designed specifically for bicycle transport between Gardone Riviera and Limone sul Garda is nearing completion. Alberto Chiovelli, General Manager of Navigazione Laghi, confirmed the plan is currently being shared with the Lombardy Region, estimating a 24-month timeframe for the construction of the vessels.
Why the Land Route Was Abandoned
The decision to shift the route onto the water dates back to December 2025. The Lombardy Region renounced the construction of the land-based bike path between Gardone Riviera and Limone due to significant technical and hydrogeological criticalities along the rocky cliffs, which present a high risk of landslides. Instead, an agreement was reached with the Province of Brescia and Navigazione Laghi for a maritime connection.
This intermodal solution aims to preserve the continuous ring of the cycle path around Lake Garda while safeguarding the environment and ensuring the safety of cyclists and pedestrians.
Project Details and Timelines
The agreement tasks Navigazione Laghi with designing two naval units tailored for passengers and bicycles, alongside adequate waiting areas, boarding facilities, and bike storage spaces. The service will operate on an independent, regular schedule, separate from the existing ferry lines.
While the construction of the ferries is estimated to take two years, the actual launch of the service will depend on securing the necessary funding from the Lombardy Region and the Ministry of Transport. Meanwhile, on the Trentino side of the lake, over two million euros are required to widen the historic Titani and Limniadi tunnels for the path between Riva del Garda and the Limone border.
