Hi Everybody,

This time I wanted to write about one of my favorite winter training rides. I train a lot in the Lake Garda region in Italy and one of my favorite climbs is the one that goes up to Muslone from Gargnano. To get there you pass through the beautiful towns of Salo` and Gardone Riviera, and you ride by the fabulous old residence of the famous Italian poet Gabriele D’ Annunzio. The big house is now a museum and contains many exhibits that document the adventurous life of the poet.

From the top of the Vittoriale you are treated to one of the most beautiful sights of Lake Garda.  You can see Garda Island, the small Rabbit Island near Manerba and the Sirmione peninsula.

During my training I continue along the lake’s coast to reach Gargnano, which is really a beautiful lake town with a small port full of boats. The typical houses of Gargnano are Lemon houses, in fact the mild climate that exists around the lake is suited for the lemon and the olive trees to thrive. The Lemon houses are formed by many pillars that are there to help the lemon trees grow. The coast of the lake is also known as the Lemon Riviera as a result of the many lemon houses that are there.
 
After Gargnano I continue along the coast and the road goes uphill a little bit. I pass by a deviation that goes to Navazzo, which is another one of my favourite climbs. After 1,5 km I take left and I start climbing towards Muslone. The climb is only 4 kms, but at the top you have a beautiful and complete view of the entire lake. On the other side of the lake you have the incredible view of the the Monte Baldo and the Veronese coast. You can take in the entire the western coast with all of the olive trees and rocky mountains that surround the lake. Being there makes you realize why the directors of the last James Bond film selected this location for the opening scene.

After taking my time to admire the amazing panoramic view, I put on my jacket and start the descent. Normally I sweat on the climb, so the descent if very cold, but as soon as I get down the mountain I feel a lot better in the mild winter sun.

Thanks for reading,
Rubens