Cable Car Prada
Costabella
Outdoor activity – Prada, Lake Garda
Cable Car Prada Costabella
If you’re seeking both adventure and tranquility in a single destination, the Cable Car from Prada to Costabella is a must-do experience. Completely renovated and reopened to the public in 2022, the cable car offers a journey consisting of two sections: an open two-passenger basket lift and a two-seat chairlift. Spanning approximately 3 kilometers, this cable car system provides a breathtaking gateway to the Monte Baldo Natural Park.
The departure station is located in Prada Alta, within the municipality of Brenzone, directly in front of the Edelweiss Hotel. This picturesque area is perched at an elevation of 1,000 meters above sea level, offering stunning views of Lake Garda, and serves as an ideal starting point for your adventure. The station is easily accessible by car or public transport from both San Zeno di Montagna and Brenzone sul Garda.
The Cable Car System
Two-Passenger Basket Lift: The journey begins with a 2 km ride on an open two-passenger basket lift, ascending from Prada Alta at 1,000 meters above sea level to Ortigaretta at 1,550 meters above sea level. This 20-minute journey provides an exhilarating experience as you travel through the lush landscapes of Monte Baldo, offering breathtaking views along the way.
Middle Station: At an elevation of 1,550 meters, the middle station is a perfect spot to take a break and enjoy the view. The Baito Turri alpine hut, formerly known as the Mondini refuge, offers a beautiful panoramic terrace overlooking Lake Garda. Here, you can rest and savor typical dishes of the Monte Baldo region.
Two-Seat Chairlift: From the middle station at Ortigaretta, you’ll transition to a two-seat chairlift for the final ascent. This section is 955 meters long and takes you to the summit in just 10 minutes. The ride offers a relaxed experience, with stunning vistas of Lake Garda unfolding before you as you climb to higher elevations.
End Station: The journey concludes at Cima Costabella, situated at an elevation of over 1,850 meters above sea level. Just a few meters from the chairlift’s arrival point, you’ll find the Fiori del Baldo mountain hut, which offers a stunning 360° panoramic view of Lake Garda and its surrounding hinterland. A short 20-minute walk from the chairlift station leads you to the Rifugio Chierego, where you can enjoy a bar, restaurant services, and accommodations with rooms available for groups of 4 and 6 people.
Hiking and Trails
The Cable Car Prada Costabella offers a fantastic opportunity for mountain and nature enthusiasts to explore the peaks of Monte Baldo. This mountain range remained isolated during the last glaciation, resulting in a unique and rich floral heritage. Monte Baldo Natural Park is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, with numerous trails branching out from the mountain stations, allowing visitors to explore diverse landscapes and the area’s rich biodiversity.
Sentiero delle Creste: This trail between Prada Alta, Cima Costabella, and the Naole’s Crest offers a breathtaking walk with panoramic views of Lake Garda and the surrounding valleys. It’s a moderate 9 km hike with 490 meters of altitude difference, taking about 3-4 hours to complete.
Cima Valdritta: For those seeking a challenge, the hike to Cima Valdritta, the highest peak of Monte Baldo at 2,218 meters, offers a rewarding experience. The trail is steep and demanding but rewards hikers with unparalleled views at the summit.
Practical Information
The operating season is from March 30th to November 3rd, 2024. Currently, tickets are only available for purchase at the ticket office located at the Cable Car Prada Costabella departure station; online ticket sales are not yet offered. Discounts are available for teenagers under 14, retirees, families, and groups. Children up to 1.20 meters in height and persons with disabilities receive a free ticket. Please visit the Funivie del Baldo website for detailed fare information.
The basket lift and the chairlift operate from 9:00 am to 4:45 pm. The last return from the uphill station is scheduled for 6:00 pm, though times may vary depending on the season. Free parking is available in front of the station. Bringing dogs on the cable car costs 5.00 euros roundtrip. Please note that dogs must be on a leash and wear a muzzle, which can be obtained at the ticket office. Bicycles cannot be transported.
Getting There
By Car: The Prada plateau is easily reachable by car, with ample free parking available at the departure station. From the A22 motorway, take the exit Affi/Lago di Garda sud and proceed along the SP9 provincial road to San Zeno di Montagna, turning uphill to Prada. From the A4 motorway, take the exit Peschiera del Garda and reach Affi by taking the SS450 state road, then follow the SP9 provincial road to San Zeno di Montagna, turning uphill to Prada.
Public Transport: From Garda – Costermano – San Zeno di Montagna, take ATV bus line 470. From Verona, take ATV bus lines 163 – 164 – 185 with a change at Garda to ATV bus line 470. For further information on timetables, please visit the ATV Verona webpage.
What to Bring
Clothing: Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly between the base and summit. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring a waterproof jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
Essentials: Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of water. A backpack with snacks and a camera will enhance your hiking experience, allowing you to capture the breathtaking scenery.
Safety: Pay attention to trail markers and weather conditions. Some trails may require advanced preparation or guidance from experienced hikers or guides.
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