recommended route
Defensionsmauer
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Foto d'epoca: la strada del PonalePhoto: Staff Outdoor Garda Trentino AC, Garda Trentino
From war to peace: the walkway linking the Austrian fortifications dating back to the Great War now makes for a beautiful itinerary for history enthusiasts, hiking lovers and those who just want to enjoy a great view. Return along the Ponale path, once the main link between Valle di Ledro and Riva del Garda and battleground during the Great War. The rock formations and the vegetation, influenced by the mild climate of Lake Garda, give to the landscape a Mediterranean-like appearance.
The Defensionsmauer (i.e. Defensive barrier) is a fortification complex located above the Ponale road and fortification complex. Both were built in defence of Riva del Garda and Valle di Ledro. During the First World War, Valle di Ledro was located at the border between the Habsburg Empire, to which it belonged, and the Kingdom of Italy. The civil population was evacuated from the valley floor (for the most part to Bohemia) while corps of Kaiserjäger, Kaiserschützen and Alpini fought for the control of Valle di Ledro and the surrounding mountains.
Author’s recommendation
For more than a century, the belvedere along the Ponale path has been one of the favourite viewpoints of the hikers who walk along the old road between Valle di Ledro and Riva del Garda. On the other side of the valley the beautiful Ponale waterfall can be seen in the distance.
Track types
Safety information
Safety Tips
- Choose itineraries that suit your physical and technical abilities. Collect information about the area you are visiting and the trail’s conditions and get a detailed trekking map.
- Wear clothes and take equipment that suit the difficulty and length of your tour. Keep emergency gear in your rucksack, including first aid supplies.
- Do not go walking alone in the mountains. In any case, tell someone where you are going and report back on returning.
- Look at the weather forecast before setting off and always keep an eye on the weather.
- In case of doubt, go back. It is better to give up than risk bad weather or face difficulties beyond your strength, ability and equipment.
- Do not leave marked paths and do not take shortcuts.
- All described walks are in a natural environment and therefore their use is at your own risk.
This information is subject to inevitable variations, so none of these indications are absolute. It is not entirely possible to avoid giving inexact or imprecise information, given how quickly environmental and weather conditions can change. For this reason, we decline any responsibility for changes which the user may encounter. In any case, it is advisable to check environment and weather conditions before setting out.
Caution! Danger of rock fall
Tips and hints
For more information on routes, services (guides, mountain huts, shops etc.) and hiking friendly accommodation: Garda Trentino - +39 0464 554444
Start
Destination
Turn-by-turn directions
Take Via del Dazì in Biacesa, turn right into Via dei Toiane and then right again into Via di Cimara. At the fork take the SAT 472 path leading to the Defensionsmauer (a war fortification). Turn onto the SAT 405 (Cima Capi) which later converges into the Ponale path. Follow the Ponale to Riva del Garda and then all the way back to Biacesa.
Note
Public transport
Public-transport-friendly
Valle di Ledro is connected to Riva del Garda by the intercity bus line 214 (Riva-Valle di Ledro-Storo). Bus stop "Biacesa".
Up-to-date information on timetables and routes.
Getting there
Exit the A22 motorway at Rovereto Sud – Lago di Garda. Follow the SS240 della Val di Ledro to Biacesa.
Find out how to reach Garda Trentino.
Parking
Car park by the helipad just outside the village of Biacesa.
Coordinates
Author’s map recommendations
Garda Trentino TREKKING Map – Available in the info points of Garda Trentino (Riva del Garda, Arco, Torbole sul Garda, Ledro, Comano Terme)
Book recommendations for this region:
Recommended maps for this region:
Equipment
You need to wear the right clothing and take the proper gear when you go hiking in the mountains. Even on relatively short easy outings make sure to take all you need so you don't run into trouble if things take an unexpected turn, for example a storm blows up or you have a sudden drop in energy levels.
What should you take when you go on a hike?
Your rucksack (for a day trip a 25/30L capacity should do) should contain:
- water canteen (1L)
- snacks (e.g. mixed dried fruit or chocolate)
- First aid kit
- windproof jacket
- fleece
- change of t-shirt and socks (in a plastic bag)
- make sure to wear or at least bring a pair of long trousers
- hat
- sun screen
- sunglasses
- gloves
- whistle to attract attention in an emergency
Make sure you're wearing the right footwear for the trail and season. The going can get rough and rocky underfoot and a pair of hiking boots will protect you from sprains. When wet, a grassy slope, rocky slab or steep trail can be dangerous unless you are wearing the proper footwear.
And finally... don't forget to bring your camera! You'll need it to capture the stunning views you come across all over Garda Trentino. And if you like, you can share your memories with us at #GardaTrentino.
Emergency telephone number 112.
Questions and answers
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