There’s a place overlooking one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy where it’s easy to slow down, breathe deeply, and feel in tune with the world around you.
A place where nature takes center stage, but where wellness and hospitality play just as important a role.
If you’re looking for a vegan weekend getaway on Lake Garda, Riva del Garda might just surprise you.
Here, surrounded by mountains, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages, you can enjoy a rejuvenating break without compromising on plant-based options.
To add something special to your experience, I recommend discovering Hotel Gabry: a family-run hotel immersed in greenery, offering an almost entirely vegan breakfast, yoga sessions, e-bikes, a spa, and lots of thoughtful details that speak the language of mindful well-being.
And if you scroll through the article, you’ll also find an exclusive discount code for the Vago e Vego community.
So, if you’re dreaming of a getaway filled with nature, wellness, and delicious vegan food, Riva del Garda is the perfect destination!
What to Do During a Vegan Weekend in Riva del Garda (and Nearby): Nature, Sports, and Scenic Views
Trentino Garda is perfect for those who love an active and sustainable lifestyle: scenic walks, hikes, bike rides along the lake, but also slow moments to enjoy parks, gardens, and beautiful water views.
And Riva del Garda is the ideal starting point to explore stunning locations without straying too far.
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Exploring Riva del Garda
Riva del Garda is a lively and charming town, perfect for exploring on foot.
The historic center is a network of well-kept alleyways, little squares, and lake views, dominated by the Torre Apponale, the city’s iconic tower. Climb its 165 steps for a rewarding panoramic view over the main square and the lake.
Just a few steps away, the MAG – Museo Alto Garda, located in the fortress by the harbor, hosts engaging art, archaeology, and local history exhibitions.
One of the most scenic experiences is the ascent to the Venetian Bastion, a 16th-century fortification that you can reach with a pleasant walk or a modern panoramic glass elevator. Once at the top, the breathtaking view invites you to pause for an aperitif at the Bastione Lounge.
Finally, don’t miss a lakeside walk: a flat and relaxing route lined with palm trees, oleanders, swans, and romantic views, connecting Riva to Torbole. It’s perfect for a bike ride or a sunset stroll.
Biking from Riva to Torbole
One of the best ways to explore the area is by hopping on an e-bike and cycling the path between Riva and Torbole. It’s an easy ride with stunning lake and mountain views. Torbole is a small gem, ideal for a coffee break or a refreshing swim.
Hike to Arco: Nature and Climbing
Just minutes from Riva lies Arco, a top destination for rock climbers. Even if you’re not into climbing, the charming village and a walk up to the castle offer a breathtaking view of the valley.
Varone Waterfalls
When the heat kicks in, a refreshing and scenic stop is the Varone Waterfalls: a spectacular waterfall set into the rock, accessible via walkways and caves. A true natural gem just minutes from town.
Trekking on Monte Brione
Prefer to stay close to Riva but still want a view? Monte Brione offers an easy panoramic trail with views over the lake and the town. A perfect morning or sunset activity.
Where to Stay: Hotel Gabry, Where Hospitality Meets Green Comfort and Vegan Breakfasts
Finding accommodation that combines comfort, environmental awareness, and a truly vegan-friendly offer isn’t always easy. But in Riva del Garda, Hotel Gabry pulls it off effortlessly.
Located just minutes from the lake and town center, yet surrounded by lush greenery, it’s a true oasis of peace. Perfect for those who want to balance active moments with pure relaxation.
The family-run hospitality is attentive, discreet, and genuinely guest-centered. The vibe is laid-back, and the inviting pool is surrounded by a lush garden of palms and olive trees. Everything here seems to whisper: slow down.
Rooms are bright, simply furnished, and use natural materials. Some offer lake views, others overlook the garden or pool. But the real highlight – beyond the warm welcome – is the breakfast.
An Almost Entirely Vegan (and Delicious) Breakfast
Forget the usual three plant-based options in the corner.
Here, the vegan breakfast takes center stage and changes daily: homemade cakes (like fruit tarts, pies, and cookies), plant-based yogurt, fresh fruit, bread, spreads, and savory items like vegan cold cuts, scrambled tofu, chickpea pancakes, pizza, and fresh-baked bread.
Of course, there are always plant-based drinks, coffee, and tea.
All served in a bright indoor space or on the veranda, surrounded by birdsong, greenery, and the pool’s gentle reflection. A beautiful way to start your day.
Not Staying Overnight? Hotel Gabry Offers Day Packages Too
Even if you’re not staying at Hotel Gabry, you can still enjoy a taste of its relaxing, green atmosphere thanks to the special day packages designed for anyone wanting to treat themselves to a special day on Lake Garda.
Among the most appreciated options is access to the vegan breakfast, served every morning from 7 to 11. It’s a full buffet of homemade sweet and savory delights, fresh fruit, plant-based milks, and other cruelty-free treats, enjoyed in the garden or the bright breakfast room.
You can also combine breakfast with other experiences like yoga, access to the private spa with sauna and relaxation area, or something more active like renting e-bikes to explore the lakefront and nearby areas freely.
These day packages are ideal for locals, apartment renters, or anyone spending just a day at Lake Garda who wants to enjoy a regenerating break in a welcoming, sustainable, and vegan-friendly environment.
Where to Eat Vegan on Lake Garda
Wondering where to eat vegan nearby? On Friday evenings, Hotel Gabry also offers its guests a delicious vegan-friendly apericena – a relaxed dinner-aperitif on the veranda, surrounded by greenery.
In addition, several vegan and vegan-friendly options are available nearby:
- Officina Verde (Località San Giacomo, 6) – The only fully vegan restaurant on Lake Garda, offering creative and gourmet plant-based cuisine.
- Villa Aranci (Viale Rovereto, 25) – A restaurant-pizzeria with vegan options like spaghetti with three types of tomatoes, oven-baked seitan with vegetables, hummus, and assorted side dishes.
- Taste of India (inside Blue Garden shopping center, Viale Rovereto, just minutes from Hotel Gabry) – Clearly marked vegan options including chana masala, zucchini patties, and stir-fried vegetables.
- In Arco (10 minutes from Riva), Bioessere Café & Bistrot is an organic vegetarian spot with various vegan choices.
🗺️ You can find many more vegan-friendly options in Riva del Garda and the surrounding area in the Vegan Guide to Lake Garda, including a map.
🌱 Why Choose a Vegan Weekend in Riva del Garda
A vegan weekend in Riva del Garda is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature, take care of yourself, and discover a part of Italy that remains pleasantly calm even in high season. And when you find a place that respects and welcomes your ethical choices, everything feels even more harmonious.
Hotel Gabry isn’t a strictly vegan hotel, but it’s certainly a place where vegan guests feel heard, respected, and pampered. And often, that means more than a label.
Whether you’re looking for a detox escape, an active break, or just a special day by the lake, Hotel Gabry and Riva del Garda are waiting for you.
Planning a weekend in the area?
The Vegan Guide to Lake Garda features a curated selection of fully plant-based restaurants, b&b and lakeside accommodations, offering an ethical and sustainable way to enjoy Lake Garda – combining nature, flavor, and mindful hospitality.
- All the Vegan spots
- Restaurants with Vegan-Friendly Options
- 10 must-visit vegan-friendly places on Lake Garda
- Vegan-Friendly Stays on Lake Garda
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