Passo Nota is one of the most fascinating and strategic hiking destinations in the Upper Garda Bresciano, a true gem set among the mountains that separate Lombardy from Trentino. This historic pass, located in the heart of the Upper Garda Bresciano Park, offers visitors a unique combination of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and hiking opportunities for all levels of experience.
Its privileged location makes Passo Nota an ideal starting point for numerous hikes towards some of the most spectacular peaks in the area, including the famous Monte Tremalzo and Monte Carone. Here, immersed in unspoiled nature, visitors can breathe pure mountain air and enjoy breathtaking views stretching from Lake Garda to the Brenta Dolomites.
How high is Passo Nota
Passo Nota lies at 1,208 meters above sea level, a strategic altitude between the surrounding valleys. This elevation guarantees a pleasant mountain climate during the summer months and offers a refreshing escape from the heat of the Garda Riviera. The pass is accessible almost all year round, though the best hiking months are from May to October.
Its altitude also makes it an optimal starting point for those wishing to reach higher peaks without facing steep elevation gains from the very beginning.
How to get to Passo Nota
Reaching Passo Nota from Villa delle Querce can be done in several ways, each offering a different experience suited to various levels of fitness and personal preferences.
By car
For those traveling by car, once you reach the hamlet of Vesio, take the road leading into The Bondo Valley. From here, a narrow road climbs to the pass with about 16 hairpin bends. The main road access starts from Vesio di Tremosine.
The road has many sharp bends and requires caution, especially in the narrower sections where crossing with other vehicles may occur.
In winter, the road may have icy stretches or be covered with snow. Be cautious and check conditions with local tourist offices.
By motorcycle
Passo Nota can be reached by mountain bike or car, and motorcycles are also allowed. Riders can follow the same route as cars, keeping in mind that the road features several bends and dirt stretches near the end. It is advisable to use bikes suitable for mixed asphalt–gravel terrain for the last few kilometers.
On foot
Hikers can reach Passo Nota via different trails starting from lower altitudes. The most common route begins in Vesio di Tremosine, initially following the road before branching off onto more direct forest paths. The elevation gain is about 588 meters starting from Vesio (620 m a.s.l.).
The walking time ranges from 2 to 3 hours depending on pace and fitness level, mainly along:
- the road path (longer but less steep),
- connecting forest trails (shorter but more demanding).
By bicycle
The route from Passo Nota to Passo Tremalzo, very popular with Italian and especially foreign mountain bikers, is certainly not for the faint-hearted or untrained legs. To reach Passo Nota by mountain bike, the most common route starts from Vesio:
- Start: Vesio di Tremosine (620 m).
- Elevation gain: about 588 meters.
- Distance: about 5 km.
- Difficulty: medium-high due to the steep climb.
- Surface: asphalt at first, then gravel in the final section.
This trail is very popular among mountain bikers and often serves as an intermediate stage towards the more challenging Passo Tremalzo. Once at Passo Nota, e-bikes can also be recharged at dedicated stations, allowing riders to tackle more demanding trails with a full battery.
From Vesio, you can rent mountain bikes or e-bikes at BestOne (www.bestonebicigrill.it).
Where to park
The refuge run by the Alpini of Vesio is the ideal place to leave your car. Near the Rifugio degli Alpini, informal parking spaces are available along the dirt road. Parking is not paved but large enough to accommodate several cars.
Keep in mind:
- Parking spaces are limited during peak season.
- There are no security or surveillance services.
- It is advisable to arrive early in the morning to secure a spot.
- The dirt road may be dusty in summer and muddy after rain.
Hikes from Passo Nota
Passo Nota is a strategic crossroads for numerous hikes of great scenic and historical interest. From here, several routes open up to explore the surrounding mountains.
Tremalzo
The hike towards Monte Tremalzo follows a well-maintained military road, without particularly exposed or difficult passages. Passo Tremalzo and Monte Tremalzo represent the natural continuation of a hike from Passo Nota:
- Elevation gain: about 700 meters from Passo Nota.
- Time: 3–4 hours round trip.
- Difficulty: E (Hiking).
- Scenery: spectacular views of Lake Garda and the Brenta Dolomites.
The military road leading to Tremalzo is well kept and offers exceptional panoramic views throughout the route.
Lake Ledro
From Passo Nota, it is possible to descend towards the Ledro Valley along trails winding through beech and fir forests. This hike leads to the picturesque alpine lake and allows the discovery of a valley rich in history and traditions:
- Descent: about 550 meters.
- Time: 2–3 hours.
- Difficulty: E (Hiking).
- Interest: scenic and historical.
Monte Carone
Monte Carone is another interesting destination reachable from Passo Nota via trails that cross alpine pastures and rocky outcrops:
- Summit altitude: 1,621 meters.
- Elevation gain: about 400 meters from Passo Nota.
- Time: 2–3 hours round trip.
- Scenery: privileged views over Upper Garda and the Prealps.
Other noteworthy hikes
On the hills near the refuge, trenches built by Italian soldiers during the Great War are still visible. Other notable hikes from Passo Nota include:
- Great War Trails: routes passing through historic trenches and military posts,
- Monte Zenone: a panoramic hike of medium difficulty,
- Valle di Bondo: descent into the nature reserve along ancient trails.
The refuges of Passo Nota: the Rifugio degli Alpini
The main landmark for those visiting Passo Nota is the well-known Rifugio degli Alpini, located at Passo Nota (1,208 m a.s.l.), one of the most evocative spots of the Upper Garda Bresciano Park. The refuge is run by the Alpini Group of Vesio and can be reached via Mons. Zanini, Vesio di Tremosine.
Passo Nota, with its Rifugio degli Alpini, offers an excellent refreshment point on the road to Passo Tremalzo.
The facility is managed by the Alpini Group of Vesio di Tremosine and opens during the summer months, generally from May to September. It offers simple and genuine food service, with traditional local dishes: specialties include salamella, grilled formaggella di Tremosine, and the characteristic Polenta cùsa.
The setting is particularly charming, surrounded by lush greenery and centuries-old trees. Numerous outdoor tables allow guests to dine in the meadow, while a covered veranda welcomes those who prefer indoor seating without giving up panoramic views.
The refuge also serves as a Great War museum, displaying relics (utensils, weapons, personal effects) found locally and in other areas of Upper Garda.
Where is the Passo Nota military road
Historically, Passo Nota was the main communication route between the Ledro Valley and the Garda Riviera: a contested border area and a passage for trade and workers, it was always guarded to control access.
The military road of Passo Nota is part of a wider system of military infrastructure built during World War I. The route runs along a dirt military road and, in its first section, passes through several tunnels carved into the rock during the war.
Key features of the military road include:
- Historical origin: built during World War I for defensive purposes,
- Route: connecting Passo Nota with surrounding fortified positions,
- Current status: used as a hiking trail and gravel road for mountain bikes,
- Interest: historical and scenic, with tunnels carved into the rock.
The defensive need of the Pass, already foreseen by Venetian officials in the 1600s with a trench blockade, developed into a vast defensive system during the Great War. Today, this historic infrastructure represents a heritage of great cultural value and a unique attraction for military history and trekking enthusiasts.
Passo Nota thus stands out as a complete destination, satisfying both those seeking mountain adventure and those interested in history and past testimonies. The combination of accessibility, natural beauty, and historical richness makes it an unmissable stop for anyone staying in Tremosine and wishing to discover the wonders of Upper Garda Bresciano.
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