GardaTrek - Top Loop 4: to the balcony over Lake Garda

<p>Another uphill stage! From the bottom of the valley there is almost 2000 metres of elevation gain to get to one of the most spectacular viewing points in all of Garda Trentino.</p>

<p>This stage scales the steep limestone outcrops which tower above the vineyards in Valle Sarca. You first reach the age-old chestnut woods between Braila and Carobbi, continue on up to the pastures of Malga Vallestrè and up again along the ridge covered in dwarf mountain pine until you come to Monte Stivo at 2058 m a.s.l. where you have a 360° panorama of the Dolomites, Adamello- Presanella Group, and Lake Garda as far as the Po Valley.</p> <p>The trail leading to the hamlet of Braila is known as<strong> "sentiero della maestra"</strong> (teacher's trail, SAT667). The name refers to a <a href="https://maps.gardatrentino.it/en/tour/mountain-tour/sentiero-della-maestra-the-teacher-s-trail-in-the-heart-of-the-sarca/13354879/">curious local event</a> whose protagonist was a teacher living in the villahe. The trail is graded as EE, that is to say advised for experienced hikers, as there's an iron cable helping hikers on the most exposed stretch. </p> <p>This stage is quite long and demanding, with no stop off for refreshments. Therefore be sure to take with you enough water and snacks. </p>