The loop trail to Lake Tenno, in the province of Trento, is dedicated to those who want to take on an undemanding hike without missing a thing. Indeed, everything you could ask for from a hike is concentrated in the 12 km of the trail: forests, scenic viewpoints, carefully preserved medieval villages rich in tradition, country mule tracks surrounded by fruit trees, and a wonderful swimming lake.

The “pearls” of this itinerary are two in particular. The first is Canale di Tenno, which is among the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy, and to disagree is impossible. Alleys, underpasses, galleries and barrel vaults make up its architecture and have been preserved almost intact. In this place where time seems to stand still, artists of all nationalities find inspiration and are hosted in the “Artists’ House,” leaving their works as donations.
The second wonder of this hike is Lake Tenno, one of the cleanest and most pristine bodies of fresh water in Italy, which allows for a real visual treat of colorful hues and a refreshing stop exactly halfway along the trail.

We start from the parking lot below Cologna, with panoramic views of Lake Garda, and climb to the village and then take trail 401 to the Plague Capitol. Follow the path along an old mule track for about 1 kilometer and 200 meters of elevation gain, climbing among olive terraces to the village of Tenno.
Leaving the village and crossing the provincial road, it is still the same path that leads uphill to Calvola. Here we leave trail 401 to walk left along the mule track that leads to the beautiful village Canale di Tenno. Continuing on, the trail descends to Lake Tenno, circumnavigates it in the shade of hazelnut trees, and climbs the steps leading to the parking lots. To return to the starting point, a different route is taken than the outward journey, which passes through the village of Frioc and picks up trail 401 for the last 200 meters.

Technical description:
The route is technically undemanding, almost touristy, with an elevation gain of about 500 meters, requiring the most effort during the initial climb. There is ample opportunity to quench one’s thirst, thanks to several fountains along the route.

Route type: loop
Length: 12 km
Elevation gain: 510 m
Downhill elevation gain: 510 m
Highest point: 694 m
Lowest point: 227 m

Municipality of departure: Tenno
Starting location: Cologna di Tenno
Municipality of arrival: Tenno
Place of arrival: Cologna di Tenno

Recommended period:
The low altitude of the route allows it to be traveled all year round.

Where to park:
At the starting point, at a hairpin bend just below Cologna, there is free parking.

Useful links:
http://www.lagodigardaescursioni.it/escursioni-lago-garda-montagna/tenno-da-cologna-01/escursione.html