A guide to Rovereto, a charming Italian town and its hiking trails

Rovereto is nestled in Northern Italy between Trento and Garda Lake. This charming getaway to the Trentino region unveils the alluring places to visit that you probably never heard of. From marvelous lakes to breathtaking castles and scenic hikes, Rovereto is a fantastic basis to indulge into Italian fairy tale.

Blending the fantastic art, amazing history and vibrant events- that’s the lovely Rovereto. Exploring Lake Garda on its northern shore has numerous benefits when visiting Rovereto. More than this, Rovereto holds the key to the pristine Alpine views and beautiful trails. It’s a fantastic alternative or better to say, a prelude to your Dolomites journey, starting with Lago di Braies or charming Bressanone. The enthusiasts about outdoor photography will find numerous hidden gems that Trentino has to offer.

If you’re still hesitating, Rovereto will reward you with its Italian soul and tranquil atmosphere. Come with me to the journey in Rovereto and be ready for its fascinating adventures.

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Shortly about Rovereto and its name

The picturesque name of Rovereto intertwines with the Roman word „Roboretum“ depicting the forest of oaks. Rovereto’s roots lead back to the 12-13th century and building the fortress known as Rovereto Castle.

During the 15th century, the impressive influence of the Venetian Republic followed the Tyrolean domination. With the prosperity that the silk industry brought, the town turned into the golden treasure.

Glorified by famous personalities such as Dante, Mozart, Napoleon and Maximilian of Habsburg, Rovereto earned its honour.

Beautiful streets of Rovereto

Though not enchanting as Bressanone, wandering around Rovereto will slowly unveil its marvels. Through the maze of the lovely streets, you’ll enjoy exploring its historical charm. Admiring its facades and fountains, it’s easy to get lost in Rovereto’s beauty.

Piazza Rosmini is the beautiful heart of the town that hides in its backdrop Palazzo del Bel Conti D’Arco. Just around the corner is the majestic Neptuno’s fountain and legendary Cafeteria Bontadi will give you the perfect moments to relax.

Rovereto is full of palaces that unveil the secret treasure that you would say on the first hand. Two palaces and the lovely bridge between them speak of Rovereto’s medieval history- Palazzo Pretorio and Palazzo Sbardellati.

Walking towards the river a bit away from the center will lead you to Forbato Bridge. Perching on the stone, the Turk’s house looks so picturesque with the river Leno.

Trento is even more charming so be sure to pay a visit to the largest city of Trentino.

The artistic charm of Rovereto- Mart, a Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art

Rovereto is inspiring to visit because of its cultural offer and MART Museum scatters incredible fun of modern art. Entering the building covers an exciting feeling of admiration as you notice the construction and interior design.

Spread at four floors, you can easily get lost in the explosion of colours. Though you can circle the museum in one hour, stop for a moment and enjoy the artistic burst. The strange installations, paintings and artwork depict the vision of Rovereto and modern creativity.

Some of the famous names in the incredible collection of around 20 000 artworks are Hayez, Boccioni and De Chirico. Mario Botta, the swiss starchitect signs the stunning building design.

Art House Fortunato Depero

The only museum in Italy dedicated to futurism covers more than 3000 objects where artistic irony takes the rule. It includes the authentic artwork in the tapestries, furnishings, drawings, paintings and some posters.

Fortunato Depero, the local of Rovereto, designed this museum making the contemporary design more than his incredible covers for Vogue magazine.

Cultural events in Rovereto

What makes Rovereto such a hidden gem in Italy is the vibrant life and cultural events it offers. During my visit in October, there was a movie festival and a street food festival. RAM Film Festival or Rovereto Archeologia Memorie represents the cultural heritage on different topics each year. It brings exhibitions, training courses and guided tours to sparkle the cultural discussions and social engagement.

The evening musical performances in front of the local bars inspire us to see it also in your own place.

One of the most unique events in Rovereto is the Mozart Festival which covers some inspiring dancing performances. Giving honour to the first Mozart concert in Italy back in 1769, Rovereto knows how to celebrate the cultural shine.

Oriente Occidente brings the dance exhibitions in the large palette of European creativity each year.

Lagarina Jazz Festival in Ala, a few kilometers south of Rovereto will unveil to you the elegant spectar of emotions.

The Historical Treasure of Rovereto

The highlight of Rovereto is its historical charm, which has the greatest influence on its castle. Rovereto Castle takes the roots in the 14th century offering the stunning views above the city. You can only witness these views by entering in the castle, though it’s today only a War Museum. During the years it served as a military fortress and in 1921 transformes in the Italian History Museum of War.

The Museum depicts WWI, WWII, Colonial War and even the Cold War with its  uniforms, machinery and other objects. Visiting this museum is an awesome way to understand the politics of war and how it changes the social interactions.

Bell Maria Dolens

Bursting with picturesque views, the world’s largest bell is standing high above Rovereto. Though I didn’t enjoy this pristine serenity, it’s a stunning story made to celebrate peace.

Officially known as the Bell of the Fallen, it’s completely marvelous to experience to daily ringing in the evening. Having a large seating area gives this space a feeling to be in the fantastic nature theatre. Also happening at the noon on Sundays, the ringing at Maria Dolens Bell is a fascinating ode to peace.

There’s also a line of worldwide flags leading to the bell, which was made from melted cannons.

The Bell is a bit away from central Rovereto, about 40 minutes walking or you can take a bus 314.

Beautiful castles near Rovereto

Several castles scatter the breathtaking views of Vallagrina valley, unveiling the hidden gems of Trentino. Beseno castle between Trento and Rovereto has an unspoiled location, beautifully dominating the small hill.

Pozzacchio Fort is absorbed in the impressive scenery of Vallarsa Valley, which alone is the reason to visit. Built by the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1909, fortress served the defensive purposes and covers the bunkers of WWII.

Among other castles close to Rovereto it’s worth mentioning Corno Castle perching on a high cliff. If you’re seeking other castles in Trentino, Thun Castle will allure you inside and outside.

Amazing lakes near Rovereto

Within spectacular palette of the Trentino lakes, you can find pure jewels you never heard of. Exploring the fabulous lakes is the exquisite benefit of being local in Trentino or staying longer here. Even if not, allow yourself to enjoy Trentino’s treasure and spend the relaxing day close to the enchanting water colours.

From the mountainous lakes to the other natural wonders, Trentino bursts with fairytale shine for all tastes.

Even though the famous Lake Garda is easy to reach from Rovereto and full of discovery, there’s more to see. Close to Riva del Garda lies the picturesque Lago di Ledro where the landscape allure is enough to invite you. Here you can enjoy the stunning Land Art trail, visit the prehistoric houses and just admire the scenery.

Lake Tenno is another lovely lake close to Riva del Garda, smaller and very peaceful.

Other lakes in Trentino

Toblino Lake is closer to Trento but offers a charming promenade near the castle.

Lago di San Colombano lies at the margins of Rovereto, reachable also by foot.

In Val di Non you can admire the serene beauty of Lago Smeraldo where river Sass will enrich your visit.

Lago di Erdemolo is the marvelous pearl of the Trento’s mountains in the heart shape. The Alpine charm of Lago di Cei is enchanting in autumn and only 20 minutes from Rovereto.

Dolomiti del Brenta will unveil the poetic charm of Lago di Tovel, one of the largest natural lakes in Trentino.

The choice is yours, but I would recommend Ledro Lake to spoil your senses to the highest.

The picturesque cycling trails

Cycling in Rovereto brings lots of fun as you’ll have a new perspective to explore its wonderful surroundings. Whether you decide to go on your own or join the bike tour such as Yourebike, Trentino images await.

Adige cycle path will lead through the small town of Alla along the picturesque vineyards and valleys. If you prolong your journey a bit more to Avio, the Vallagrina Valley will greet you in its shine.

The cycling toward Pozzachio fort is a fantastic way to admire the scenery while still visiting the wine farms.

Explore the hiking fun near Rovereto

Monte Finocchio is perhaps the closest hike from Rovereto lying close to the castle Beseno. At the altitude of 1630m, Monte Finocchio brings the serene Alpine meadows and Vallagrina views.

Hiking to Monte Zugna involves the rocky landscapes starting at the Rifugio Malga Zugna. At the distance about 40 minutes from Rovereto, it’s best to reach it by car. The bus options are inconvenient and the sunset is truly stunning with polenta and wallnut sauce from the hut. Even the Lake Garda is visible at the clear sky.

Where to stay in Rovereto

Ostello di Rovereto– big and cozy rooms, fantastic breakfast (I mean, you’ll have 5-6 marmelades, pistachio cream, yogurt, fruits and more) and Trentino Guest Card as a gift with free access to public transport and museums;

Hotel Rovereto– boutique hotel near the train station with stylish decor;

Hotel Sant Ilario– embraced by the greenery, it has a lovely outdoor pool and free bikes;

Final thoughts

The loveliness of Rovereto belongs to its charming streets, historical treasure and artistic scene. Let’s add the stunning outdoor escapes in its surroundings, amazing castles and lakes. Being on a halfway between Dolomites and Lake Garda is what makes it so inspiring to visit.

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