Lake Garda Marathon

Lake Garda Marathon

Riva del Garda, Trentino-Alto Adige/South Tyrol, Italy

Overview

The Lake Garda Marathon attracts approximately 1,800 finishers each April along Italy's largest lake beneath the Dolomite foothills. The course passes Riva del Garda's medieval harbour, the lemon groves of Limone, and the lakeside SS45bis road with alpine panorama views. April's spring weather on the Riviera of the Alps makes it one of Italy's most scenic lake marathons.

Lake Garda Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.

Lake Garda Marathon 2027 race day

The next Lake Garda Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 25 April 2027 with a 8:30 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 150 m of climbing on a rolling with moderate climbs layout.

Lake Garda Marathon course route

The Lake Garda Marathon is a lakeside scenic road that starts and finishes in Riva del Garda on the lake's northern tip. The loop follows the western shore of Lake Garda past Limone sul Garda and the Tremosine cliff roads. Flatter corridors and river valleys offer the easiest miles, while the moderate climbs through hills, bridges, or bluffs are the tougher sections once fatigue builds. Spectators line the lakeside promenades and the start-finish area, with the densest support where the course passes parks and scenic embankments.

Lake Garda Marathon elevation profile

The Lake Garda Marathon course is rolling with moderate climbs over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 150 metres of climbing and 140 metres of descent, with a net climb of 10 metres from start to finish.

Entry requirements

The Lake Garda Marathon uses open online registration at lakegarda42.com with no ballot. Sign-up for the April race typically opens the previous autumn. The scenic lakeside course attracts international runners and early registration is advisable for preferred start-wave assignment, though the field rarely sells out months in advance.

Lake Garda Marathon course video

Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.

Lake Garda 42K 2026: 3D Video Course Map | 42.2 km - Limone sul Garda

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Lake Garda Marathon elevation profile?
The Lake Garda Marathon has 150 metres of total climbing and 140 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling with moderate climbs, with 10 metres of net climb from start to finish.
How long is the Lake Garda Marathon?
The Lake Garda Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Lakeside scenic road starting and finishing in Riva del Garda on the lake's northern tip.
What time does the Lake Garda Marathon start?
The 2027 Lake Garda Marathon starts at 8:30 am local time on Sunday, 25 April 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on lakegarda42.com/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Where does the Lake Garda Marathon start?
The race starts and finishes in Riva del Garda, the medieval harbour town at the northern tip of Lake Garda. Details at https://lakegarda42.com/.
When is the Lake Garda Marathon?
The Lake Garda Marathon is held in April, typically on the fourth Sunday. Spring on the lake is mild and scenic.
Is the Lake Garda marathon hilly?
The lakeside cliff roads, especially near Tremosine, include rolling climbs with moderate elevation change. The views compensate for the effort.
What views can runners expect at Lake Garda?
Lake Garda's turquoise water, lemon groves, medieval villages, and Dolomite foothill panoramas create one of Italy's most beautiful marathon settings.
What weather should I expect at Lake Garda in April?
April at Lake Garda is mild spring weather, often 12–20 °C (54–68 °F). The Mediterranean microclimate is warmer than the surrounding Alps.

Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.

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