A multisensory experience with the roar of the water and the lights filtering through the rocks, creating a magical atmosphere.
The Ponale Waterfall, in Porto del Ponale, about 30 meters high, is one of the most evocative and lesser-known waterfalls in the area.
Unique because the basin and the waterfall itself are accessible almost exclusively by lake, kayak, SUP, or boat, making the experience quite adventurous and reserved for those with some experience in these water activities.
Located in a cave in the rock overlooking the lake and offers a spectacular setting where the water falls clear into a turquoise basin; The area is considered wild and very peaceful, ideal for those seeking intimate contact with nature.
Those seeking a more traditional excursion can instead take the famous Ponale Trail from Riva del Garda, a historic panoramic road that winds along the rock face overlooking the lake, offering splendid views of Lake Garda and ending near the waterfall itself, where you can admire the site from an elevated perspective.
Entrance Free
How to get there
1) By kayak, SUP, or canoe (via the lake)
Starting from Riva del Garda, you sail along the coast to the Rocchetta rock face, spending almost an hour enjoying breathtaking views of the lake.
After passing the building known as Casa della Trota, you cross a small stone bridge to access the rocky ravine where the waterfall is located.
It’s easy to reach; it’s located next to an abandoned gray hotel/restaurant known as Casa della Trota, about 2 km away.
It can’t be seen from the shore, but after a while you can glimpse it. To access the waterfall, you cross a small stone bridge.
Kayaks can be rented in Riva del Garda at Sailing du Lac.
Alternatively, there are guided tours lasting approximately 2.5 hours, including kayak rental, life jacket, and an instructor, departing from Sailing du Lac in Riva del Garda.
Detailed route by lake
We start from Purfina, a lively beach just a few meters from the San Nicolò tourist port.
We then skirt Sabbioni beach until we reach the splendid Punta Lido, where we can enjoy an enchanting view of the Gulf of Riva del Garda and take a short break in the estuary of the Varone and Albola streams.
To avoid the port area, which is closed to navigation, we cross the lake in front of the center of Riva del Garda, up to the statue of Christ of the Lake, created by Fra Silvio Bottes.
The statue can only be seen from the water, just below the start of the famous Ponale trail.
From here, we follow the rock face known as Serenella, a cliff overlooking Lake Garda.
Through small bays and turquoise water, we reach Sperone beach, where we recommend a break.
We then continue along the coast southward until we reach a small ravine that hides the Ponale River Waterfall and the Ponale Marina, hidden by lush vegetation that protects their dazzling beauty.
Along the historic Ponale Trail, shortly after the Belvedere Alto bar, you can turn off towards a scenic area near the old Ponale port and descend along a path that leads to the waterfall.
Warning: the final stretch is steep and often not recommended for young children; It’s a scenic but not trivial hike.
Riva del Garda (Trento)
Trentino – Italy
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