The month of April is an important one for runners from all over Italy and Europe. Once the last page in the March calendar has been turned, it’s time for Lake Garda 42. This unique marathon isn’t like your regular long-distance race. Instead of running through grey city streets, here the competitors are racing along the clear blue shores of Lake Garda. Whether you participate in the full Maratona from Limone to Malcesine or aim for the half-marathon, you don’t want to miss this event!
The Limone-Malcesine Marathon by Lake Garda
A marathon is a strenuous endeavour for mind and body. However, nothing aids a runner’s high like the impressive landscape of Lake Garda! From winding lake promenades through Italian alleyways, you’ll discover many hidden gems while pounding the pavement. Here, you have the opportunity to test your mettle against other racers in two competitions: a full 42-kilometre-long full marathon or a 21-kilometre-long half-marathon. And the best part? This event isn’t just a pretty run, it’s a serious competition (if you want it to be)! At Lake Garda 42, the fastest participants can qualify for championships and other major competitions.
Date: 12 to 14 April 2024
Application deadline: 07.04.2024
Location: IT 25010 Limone sul Garda, Via Lungolago
Race Overview: Limone to Malcesine Challenge
The Maratona from Limone to Malcesine really shows off what the area has to offer: across three provinces and three regions, runners will pass through Lombardy, Trentino-Alto Adige and Veneto.
The starting gun sounds in Limone sul Garda. You may have seen this village in the province of Brescia on a postcard – after all, it’s well known and loved for its ancient lemon houses. During the race, you’ll pass by olive groves and terraced citrus groves. From Limone, you’ll head up the popular suspended cycle path towards Riva del Garda. As you reach the Trentino region, make sure not to stumble while taking in the breathtaking mountain views.
Once on the promenade of Riva del Garda, a picturesque mediaeval town, you’ll feel a fresh lake breeze on your face. The next stage of the race is the Sarca Valley. Here is where runners cross the half-marathon mark. Once you pass this milestone, the course makes its way along the eastern shore of Lake Garda. On the final stretch towards Malcesine, the 1,500-year-old Castello Scaligero will give you the last push needed to finish the race!
Course Highlights At Lake Garda 42
During the second week of April, athletes from all over the world flock to Lake Garda to show what they’re made of. Awaiting them is a truly impressive route: Starting in Limone sul Garda, the course runs through the province of Trentino and ends in Malcesine. The highlights of the two races:
- Full marathon, 42 kilometres: Starting on the lakeside in Limone, the route takes you along the clear blue lake to Riva del Garda. From there, you’ll make your way through picturesque orchards up to Arco.
- Half-marathon, 21 kilometres: Instead of in Limone, the half-marathon starts in Arco. From here, you’ll approach the lake in Torbole while running along the Sarca River. And hurry up, because the marathon runners are right behind you!
Beyond the Race: Exploring Limone and Malcesine
Whether you’re competing in the marathon yourself or cheering on the athletes from the sidelines, there’s plenty to do outside the race. As long as you can still walk, you should make the most of the event and explore the two landmarks Limone and Malcesine.
Limone: The town of lemons
The tiny town of Limone is nestled right between the steep mountains and Lake Garda. If you’re looking for a Mediterranean atmosphere, this is the place to be. From relaxing in olive groves and lemon gardens or cooling your feet in the lake water, you won’t regret a visit here. Once you’ve taken your fill of the beautiful scenery, make your way into the old town. Between the winding alleyways and picturesque historic buildings, authentic restaurants and shops selling local specialities are waiting for you.
Malcesine: A glimpse into the past
Sitting right on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, Malcesine has been a hot spot for many years. Its winding alleyways and old town architecture invite travellers to explore and discover everything the town has to offer. Malcesine is most famous for the Scaliger Castle. Sitting on the castle rock, the Lombards built this fortress in the 6th century. How do you know this is a place worth visiting? Because even world-renowned German poet Goethe thought so!
Join the Limone-Malcesine Marathon Adventure
Are you itching to hit the pavement and run the race of a lifetime? We know you want to — and we know you can do it! Sign up now and prepare for the Maratona from Limone to Malcesine, an experience you’ll never forget. But be quick, places are going fast!
