4.7
(333)
1,750
hikers
Monte Isola Loop Trail
02:22
8.84km
100m
Hiking
Embark on the Monte Isola Loop Trail, a moderate hike that takes you around Europe's largest inhabited car-free lake island. This route spans 5.5 miles (8.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 341 feet (104 metres), offering diverse scenery from lakeside paths to olive groves. You can expect to complete this scenic journey in about 2 hours and 22 minutes, passing through charming fishing villages like Peschiera Maraglio with their colorful buildings and cobblestone lanes.
To begin your adventure, you will need to park on the mainland, as Monte Isola is entirely car-free. Sulzano is a common parking spot, and from there, you can take a short ferry ride directly to the island. The trail is generally considered suitable for most fitness levels, making it an accessible option for many hikers. Always check local tourism sites for up-to-date ferry schedules and parking information before your visit.
This unique loop trail provides continuous panoramic views of Lake Iseo, its shores, and the surrounding mountains, including Mount Guglielmo. You will also catch glimpses of the smaller islands of San Paolo and Loreto dotting the lake. The car-free nature of Monte Isola adds to its tranquil atmosphere, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and local charm of this special destination.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Ferry Terminal
Get Directions
247 m
Peschiera Maraglio Lakeside Promenade
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
2.81 km
Historic Village of Menzino
Highlight • Settlement
you will be delighted by its great beauty.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
5.17 km
View of Monte Isola and Lake Iseo
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
6.10 km
Carzano Beach
Highlight • Beach
Translated by Google •
Tip by
8.84 km
End point
Ferry Terminal
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
8.07 km
670 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
7.14 km
1.45 km
253 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (270 m)
Lowest point (190 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Thursday 7 May
19°C
12°C
54 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it typically take to hike the Monte Isola ring tour?
The main ring tour around Monte Isola is approximately 8.8 km (5.5 miles) long and generally takes about 2 to 2.5 hours to complete at a leisurely pace. This duration allows you to enjoy the scenery without rushing.
What is the difficulty level and terrain like for this hike?
The ring tour is considered easy to medium, making it suitable for most fitness levels and families. The terrain primarily consists of paths through woods, old mule tracks, and small paved roads, all car-free. You'll find relatively flat sections along the shore, with some gentle ascents and descents. Detours to higher points, like the Sanctuary of Madonna della Ceriola, involve steeper climbs with steps.
What are the main points of interest along the route?
The trail offers diverse scenery and charming spots. You'll pass through picturesque fishing villages like Peschiera Maraglio and Carzano, and quaint hamlets such as Menzino. Key highlights include the Peschiera Maraglio Lakeside Promenade, the Historic Village of Menzino, and the Carzano Beach. You'll also enjoy stunning views of Monte Isola and Lake Iseo, along with surrounding mountains and olive groves.
Is the Monte Isola ring tour dog-friendly?
Yes, the Monte Isola ring tour is generally dog-friendly. Dogs are welcome on the island and on the trails. However, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash, especially in villages and near other hikers, and remember to clean up after them.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The best time to hike the Monte Isola ring tour is during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) months. The weather is typically mild and pleasant, and the landscapes are vibrant. Summer can be beautiful but also quite warm, while winter offers a quieter experience but with cooler temperatures.
How do I access Monte Isola, and where can I park?
Monte Isola is a car-free island, so you'll need to take a ferry to get there. The most common departure point is Sulzano, on the mainland. Parking is available in Sulzano, often for a fee. From Sulzano, regular ferries will take you to Peschiera Maraglio, which is a great starting point for the ring tour.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required to hike on Monte Isola?
No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the trails on Monte Isola. The island and its paths are freely accessible to the public.
Does the trail intersect with other paths on Monte Isola?
Yes, the ring tour around Monte Isola connects with various other paths. For instance, sections of the route overlap with trails like 'Siviano - Paradiso' and 'Pescheria Maraglio - Santuario della Ceriola', offering opportunities to explore further into the island's interior if you wish.
Are there places to eat or get refreshments along the trail?
Yes, you'll find several cafes, restaurants, and small shops in the charming villages along the ring tour, such as Peschiera Maraglio, Carzano, and Siviano. These are perfect for grabbing a coffee, a meal, or a refreshing drink, and trying local specialties like Monte Isola salami or fresh lake fish.
What makes Monte Isola unique for hiking?
Monte Isola is unique because it is the largest inhabited lake island in Europe and is entirely car-free, offering a wonderfully tranquil hiking experience. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and traditional island life without the noise or distraction of traffic. The blend of lakeside paths, ancient mule tracks, and stunning panoramic views makes it a truly special destination.
Is the trail suitable for families with young children?
The main perimeter ring tour is very suitable for families with young children due to its generally easy to medium difficulty and mostly flat sections along the shore. The car-free environment also makes it safer and more enjoyable for families. Just be mindful that detours to higher points involve steeper climbs.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
Once you arrive on the island, you can rent bikes for a small fee and explore the island. Including swimming breaks, sightseeing, and a stop for refreshments, we completed a three-hour circuit of the island. Since foreign bikes and cars are prohibited there, riding is especially fun. 👍
We made the trip to Lake Iseo with its beautiful island Monte Isola because of the rain on Lake Garda. That was a very good decision as the sun was even shining here🌤️ Clear recommendation for the lake as well as for the island with its circular tour (also easy to do by bike 👍🏻), you can also walk up to the monastery...
Wonderful walk on the largest car-free island in Europe!
The Festa de Santa Croce, also known as the Flower Festival, takes place only every five years. It's the perfect time for a visit and a short hike. It's incredible what kind of flowers the locals conjure out of paper.
We took the liner from Clusane to Peschiera Maraglio and I fell in love with shock. This is how you (I) introduce yourself 🇮🇹. It was supposed to go up to the pilgrimage church, but due to the heat it was only partially uphill. But also on our round there were many wonderful views and insights.
Wonderful walk on the island of Monte Isola in the Lago d'Iseo. On arrival in Peschiera it is relatively busy, but as soon as you head towards Sensole it becomes quieter. From Sensole to Porto Di Siviano it is quiet and on a hot day with 34°C warm on the sunny side. After Carzone you are in the shadow of the mountain and there is almost no descent or ascent. Take enough water with you; on the west side there are no water outlets on this route; there is a tap in Porto Di Siviano. Parked and crossed from Sulzano. Parking for a day is possible for € 7,- and the crossing there and back costs about € 5,- p.p.
It seems to be in a magical place....indeed we are 💕
Romantic and very easy walk around Montisola, one of the most magical places in the province of Brescia. Charming in all seasons. Do not miss the taste of the famous island salami. I recommend in this period for the foliage the walking tour to the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Ceriola. The unmissable appointment next September 2025 is the feast of the Holy Cross (incredible decorations outside of paper).