The Forts of Monte Brione

DESCRIPTION
Magnificent walk between historical memories and splendid panoramas.
Monte Brione, located between Riva del Garda, Torbole and Arco, is a place that offers a magnificent walk among historical memories and splendid panoramas. This area was of great strategic importance during the First World War, as the Austro-Hungarian army built numerous fortifications there to visually control all of Upper Garda and the Sarca valley.
The Habsburg fortifications of Monte Brione were part of a larger defensive system, known as the Brenta front line. This line of defense consisted of a series of fortifications, trenches and artillery emplacements that stretched some 500 kilometers along the Eastern Alps.
The fortifications of Monte Brione were made up of various structures, including bunkers, machine gun emplacements and observers. Many of these structures can still be seen today and have been restored to allow visitors to appreciate the military history and architecture of the era.
The walk on Monte Brione is a pleasant experience and suitable for all fitness levels, thanks to the well-maintained paths. Furthermore, the panoramic points that offer breathtaking views of Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains. Although some parts of the route are a bit exposed, they have been secured to ensure maximum visitor safety.
In summary, the walk on Monte Brione is a splendid opportunity to explore the Habsburg fortifications of the First World War, admire breathtaking views and immerse yourself in the history of the region.
For those who don't want to make the round trip, just return along the same path as the outward journey, still enjoying splendid views of the lake and the surrounding nature.


ITINERARY
From the parking lot, you go to the small port of San Nicolò where the Austro-Hungarian fort of the same name is located (69 m). Here you go up the path towards Monte Brione and the first stop is Forte Garda (147 m). Climbing further you arrive first at the Forte Battery of Mezzo (332 m) and then at the summit cross of Monte Brione (351 m). Continue following the signs for Forte Sant’Alessandro: first you go down and then up. Arriving at Forte Sant’Alessandro (364 m), go down to Sant’Alessandro (78 m) and return to the parking lot.

EXCURSION DATE
April 25, 2022

STARTING POINT
Riva del Garda

REFRESHMENT POINT
Nobody

AUTHOR’S SUGGESTIONS
If you go in the summer months remember to bring plenty of water.

SAFETY TIPS
The viability of the proposed itinerary, like all mountain morphology, is subject to environmental changes due to natural events and weather conditions. Therefore, before leaving, consult the competent tourist offices and / or the refuges of reference.
Our GPX tracks are only indicative, that is, the route was carried out at best with the conditions of the trails and weather of that day. So always consider what to do on site.
Also remember to evaluate the route based on your physical abilities, training and the equipment you have.
You should leave someone the route you intend to do told.
Remember that the emergency number is 112.

EQUIPMENT
It is recommended to have the appropriate equipment for the route, weather conditions and season: windproof and / or rain jacket, map and / or GPS device, goggles, sunscreen, boots, first aid kit, specific clothing, gloves, backpack with food and drink.

RECOMMENDED MAPS
Tabacco 061 ALTO GARDA - LEDRO - MONTE BALDO NORD

INTERESTING LINKS
https://www.visitgarda.com/

HOW TO ARRIVE
A22 in Rovereto exit Rovereto Sud / Lago di Garda Nord and then the SS240 to Riva del Garda.

PARKING AREA
Free parking.
GPS coordinates: 45.884643, 10.858045

Parcheggio a Riva del Garda

Porto San Nicolò a Riva del Garda

Forte di San Nicolò

Inizio del Sentiero dei forti

Forte Garda

Panorama verso Torbole

Panorama sul Lago di Garda

Forte Batteria di Mezzo

Croce di vetta del Monte Brione