5 things to do and see in Arco
The capital of sport climbing is nestled among olive trees
The town of Arco, famous for its breezy and healthy climate and surrounded by olive trees is stone’s throw from Lake Garda, which makes it perfect for spa treatment stays. Its castle, perched on a spur on the rock, is today a sought-after marriage location for couples from all over the world.
But what has made the town of Arco famous throughout the world is sport climbing. Considered the world capital of this discipline, Arco hosts the Rock Master every year at the end of summer, a competition in which international climbers participate. Cycle trails that go up to Lake Garda and mountain bike trails and cliffs complete the city’s sporting offering.
Then there is the Arboretum of the Archducal Park, the walk among the olive trees that leads to the castle, the Civic Gallery dedicated to Giovanni Segantini, and much more. In short, it’s time to discover together the 5 things to do and see in Arco.
Walk to Arco Castle
Positioned on a rugged rock spur, the Arco Castle dominates the Upper Garda plain. Wonderful location for weddings and shows in summer, it can be reached in about twenty minutes’ walk from the centre. Once there, you can visit the Torre Grande, famous for its fourteenth-century frescoes.
Visit the Arboretum of the Archducal Park
Established in 1873 by Archduke Albert of Austria, the Arco Arboretum is considered for all intents and purposes a natural museum. Managed by the Tridentine Museum of Natural Sciences, it houses over 200 species of plants and shrubs that enjoy the mild and breezy climate typical of the Lake Garda area.
Walk along the Rilke Promenade
Retrace the steps of Rainer Maria Rilke, 19th century Austrian poet and playwright. Rilke’s youthful lyrics were inspired by his stays in Arco. Indeed, the trail at the foot of the Castle passes through some sites mentioned by Rilke in his correspondence with Nora Goudstikker. Put yourself in the writer’s shoes and discover the Arco landscape.
Attend the Rock Master
Every year Arco dresses up as the capital of sport climbing. Adrenaline and spectacle have been in the city DNA since 1986, attracting climbers and spectators from all over the world. Over the years, the Rock Master has become one of the most popular sporting events for its uniqueness and the skill of the climbers who take part in it.
Visit the G. Segantini Civic Gallery
At the permanent Civic Gallery you can rediscover the works of Giovanni Segantini, an artist born in Arco in 1858, considered one of the greatest exponents of Italian divisionism. In addition to the works of the Trentino artist, the Gallery, housed in the historic Palazzo dei Panni, also houses the works of other contemporary artists.
