Heading towards Lake Garda: the Tour of the Alps reaches its halfway point

It has been an Italy-dominated start to the Tour of the Alps: after Tommaso Dati’s win in Innsbruck, Giulio Pellizzari claimed both the stage and the Melinda Green Jersey in Val Martello, at the end of an exciting GC battle on the final climb. The stage also delivered stunning scenery, from the Pitztal landscapes to the iconic Resia Pass and the wide expanses of Val Venosta.

In Stage 3, the peloton sets off from Laces towards Arco, covering 174.5 km through blooming orchards and valleys en route to Garda Trentino. After 26 km of flat roads, the profile changes dramatically in Lana with the long Category 1 ascent to Passo Castrin (22.2 km at 5.7%), the highest point of this edition at 1,586 meters and a natural border between South Tyrol and Trentino.

After the summit, the route descends into Val di Non, continuing to the foot of the Category 2 climb to Andalo (14.4 km at 5.4%). Both the ascent and descent run steadily toward the intermediate sprint in Ponte Arche. From there, the road rises again towards Passo del Ballino before dropping to Lake Tenno, where riders enter a circuit: first descending via Pranzo, then climbing back towards the lake and passing the bonus sprint finish in Tenno.

After completing the loop, with around 15 km to go, the race heads towards Garda Trentino, passing through the center of Riva del Garda before the final kilometers to the finish in Arco.

DISPOSITIONS

Meeting point: 8:30 AM, Piazza Laces
Start: 10:00 AM, Laces, Castelbello area
Finish: 2:15 PM, Arco, Via Monache
TV points: Cles (km 73), Ponte Arche (km 134)
KOM: Passo Castrin (Cat. 1, km 48), Andalo (Cat. 2, km 109)
Bonus Sprint: Tenno (km 158)
Totahaus Permanence: Arco, NOI Oratorio, Via Pomerio 15

START: LACES

In the heart of Val Venosta, Laces is a lively town surrounded by orchards, vineyards and mountains, crossed by the Adige River. Its mild climate and numerous hiking and cycling routes make it a meeting point for nature, sport and culture, offering a true taste of South Tyrol’s authentic spirit.

ON THE ROAD

Passo Castrin is considered the youngest mountain pass in Italy: the road was built as recently as 1998 to connect the German-speaking municipalities of upper Val di Non (Trentino) with South Tyrol. Not far from the pass lies Lake Tovel, which until 1964 was known for a natural phenomenon that turned its waters deep red due to algae blooms.

THE FLAVOR OF THE STAGE

“Carne Salada” is a typical specialty of Garda Trentino, usually made from beef and veal cuts. Once traditionally boiled, today it is used in various ways: pan-fried, grilled, or served raw as carpaccio or tartare, inspiring local chefs to create original and delicious variations.

DON’T MISS

The Ponale Road is an ancient route climbing the Ponale valley, linking Lake Ledro to Garda Trentino. Today it is one of Europe’s most famous trails for hiking and mountain biking. Just five kilometers from Arco, visitors can also explore the 100-meter-high Varone Waterfalls.

FINISH: ARCO

Arco is a jewel of Garda Trentino, surrounded by olive groves and palm trees thanks to its mild climate. Beneath its medieval castle, the town combines historical charm with a strong sporting spirit — a place of light and rock, loved by hikers, climbers and those seeking alpine tranquility with a Mediterranean touch.

SIDE EVENTS – WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22

LACES8:00 PM | Euregio Talk – Laces
Public evening dedicated to management and sport,
featuring Dietrich Thurau, Thomas Pupp and Eva Lechner

ARCO10:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Visit of the RCS Academy
11:30 AM – 2:00 PM | Safe2Ride @ Stadio Via Pomerio
8:00 PM – 10:00 PM | VIVA FM Radio Live