Lake Garda is known as one of the best places to spend a holiday in Italy. Beautiful villages, museums, beaches, and mountains make it a true paradise for all kinds of travelers. Sports enthusiasts, especially trekkers, never miss the chance to come here and explore the area and its historic trails. Today we want to tell you about the trek to Monte Altissimo di Nago, a route that crosses the heart of Trentino Alto Adige with breathtaking views and culinary stops!
From Lake Garda Up Into the Mountains
Standing at 2,078 meters high, Monte Altissimo di Nago is one of the highest peaks in the Monte Baldo range. Located within the municipality of Nago-Torbole, it is an essential destination for anyone visiting Lake Garda in every season.
In winter, the summit of Monte Altissimo is covered by a thick, soft layer of snow that attracts ski and snowboard enthusiasts. During the rest of the year, thanks to the proximity to Lake Garda and the mild climate of the area, lush, unspoiled nature reclaims its space.
The green meadows and forests frame those who venture into these valleys to follow the numerous hiking trails that offer truly unique views hard to match elsewhere.
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The Hike
The Monte Altissimo di Nago trek is one of the most popular hikes in Trentino Alto Adige. The loop trail starts from the Stanga parking lotin the Prati di Nago area, leading up to the Damiano Chiesa Refuge at the summit and then back to the starting point.
The total duration is about 5 hours for a 14 km walk with elevation gains that can reach up to 900 meters. It is therefore a hike that is not overly complex but still challenging and can be tough for less experienced and prepared trekkers.
Unlike other routes, the Monte Altissimo di Nago trek offers many attractions beyond the natural scenery. It’s not uncommon to come across extraordinary World War I relics. In fact, the Monte Baldo range was an important front during the Great War, as evidenced by tunnels, trenches, and barracks still visible today.
Stops along the walk include the Trentino mountain huts, alpine refuges dedicated to summer grazing, and slow food outposts where you can taste the local food and wine specialties directly from the producers and where they are made.
From an environmental perspective, beyond opening onto the splendid landscapes of Lake Garda and its villages, this hike also ventures into the Monte Baldo Local Nature Park. The park boasts immense biodiversity, earning it the title of the Garden of Europe.
The Loop Trail to Monte Altissimo di Nago
The starting point for the Monte Altissimo di Nago trek is Prati di Nago, easily reachable by car from the center of Nago-Torbole via state road 240. You can leave your car in the Stanga parking lot, from which the trail begins.
The first part of the walk leads to the Campei and Campo mountain huts along a gently sloping forest path. The first historical sight you encounter is the ruins of Baita Grasso, surrounded by vast green meadows.
At the junction, the hike continues following signs towards Malga Campei. You first come upon the grazing valley and shortly after the refuge. The view from here is already quite spectacular, opening onto the Brenta Dolomites and the Ledro Alps. Depending on your arrival time, you can stop not only for photos but also for a hearty lunch!
From the refuge, continue to the right, following signs for Malga Campo and steadily ascending. At the next junction, take the right path, trail 650.
This section has a slight incline and is more exposed than the rest of the trail. However, there’s no need to worry; it is perfectly safe and wide enough to walk comfortably. Meanwhile, your gaze expands to embrace the Lagarina Valley and the Pasubio and Vigolana ranges.
Upon reaching Malga Campo, if you didn’t stop earlier, you can rest here to recharge. If the hike has only increased your thirst for adventure, on the left a path opens that quickly leads to Monte Campo. a trail that leads in a very short time to Monte Campo.
Arrival and Return
After a well-deserved rest at Malga Campo, the most challenging part of the hike begins. From here, you will continue to climb steadily along trail 622. You will follow the Cirmoli trail for a stretch, also passing Bocca Paltrane.
With one final effort and a very steep ascent, you will finally reach Monte Altissimo di Nago and the Damiano Chiesa Refuge. All of Lake Garda and the mountain ranges you admired during the climb are now at your feet, in a panorama that will ease your fatigue and warm your heart!
To return home, you can then take trail 601, a steady descent, steep in some parts, that will bring you back to Nago-Torbole.
The Monte Altissimo di Nago trek is one of the hikes you can experience with us at Meeters and in the company of new friends, trekking and travel enthusiasts like you. Discover our offer and keep following us to experience Italy in a new way!