What to do in Madonna di Campiglio (even when it rains)
If you are wondering what to do in Madonna di Campiglio during your holiday, or which places to visit around Lake Garda, this guide provides practical advice to help you enjoy unforgettable moments.
This ski resort in northern Italy, also known as the 'Pearl of the Dolomites', is internationally renowned for its spectacular ski slopes. Once a favourite retreat of Austrian nobility and the wealthy bourgeoisie, including Princess Sissi and Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria, Madonna di Campiglio offers breathtaking scenery that enchants in every season. Its stunning landscapes make it an ideal destination for memorable holidays all year round, not just in winter. It’s perfect for those seeking relaxation, sport, and a connection with nature. Easily accessible from Alto Garda and vice versa, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy unforgettable experiences between mountains and lake.
Where exactly is Madonna di Campiglio? Situated in the Brenta Dolomites, at 1,550 metres above sea level, its historic centre is a charming gem, lively and filled with restaurants, bars, and luxury boutiques. Highlights include:
- the church of Santa Maria Antica (Via Campanil Basso 5): a 12th-century medieval treasure, rich in precious frescoes and with an intimate atmosphere;
- Palazzo Lodron Bertelli: a restored area that once housed the stables of the historic palace;
- Cort da Togno: an inner courtyard of buildings featuring murals and folk sayings by artist Vigilio Pellizzari Togno, showcasing local rustic art;
- the Museum of guides and the people of Campiglio: displays objects and photographs celebrating the pioneers of the Alps who contributed to the development of the Brenta Dolomites;
- Maso Curio: a testament to Rendenese rural architecture.
There is plenty to do and see in Madonna di Campiglio when the weather is fine. But what about when it rains? Indoor activities become a fantastic alternative. Here are ten different suggestions to make your holiday unique: five outdoor and five indoor activities.
What to do in Madonna di Campiglio: 5 outdoor activities
Madonna di Campiglio is a paradise for skiing enthusiasts and nature lovers. But there’s much more to explore. Here are some original outdoor activities to enjoy (besides skiing).
1. The Three lakes rail
For a deeper connection with the landscape, put on suitable hiking shoes and embark on a trek. One suggestion is the Three Lakes Trail, which takes you to the enchanting waters of Lake Nambino, Lake Malghette, and Lake Ritorto.
2. Visit the Adamello Brenta Nature Park
Not far from Madonna di Campiglio, this unique, pristine natural park offers a variety of hiking experiences. Perfect for long walks while admiring the scenery and discovering the area. Families with children can also participate in workshops and activities specially designed for younger visitors.
3. Windsurfing on Lake Garda
Looking for a couple's adventure? About an hour and a half by car from Madonna di Campiglio, you can reach Nago and enjoy a private windsurfing lesson. An activity dedicated to beginners and experts who want to hone their technique, but above all to those who want to share a special moment on the waters of Lake Garda. Lessons are also available at sunset, followed by aperitifs at a lakeside bar with stunning views.
4. Scrambling in Garda Trentino
In approximately 80 minutes by car, you can reach Arco for a guided scrambling adventure on Mount Baone. This intense activity, perfect for fit and active individuals, combines climbing and hiking in a unique natural setting.
5. Exploring on a Vespa
If you like to alternate mountains and lake, you can reach Riva del Garda, on the lake, and dedicate a day to discovering the area on board a Vespa scooter. This is a way to enrich your holiday in Madonna di Campiglio with an exclusive experience, driving an iconic vehicle and stopping at restaurants, farms, distilleries, coffee, oil and oak barrel-aged vinegar producers.
5 things to do in Madonna di Campiglio when it rains
If you’re wondering what to do when it rains in Madonna di Campiglio, here are five tips to make the most of your day, whether you’re travelling with family, friends, or as a couple.
1. A stroll through the town centre
When it’s raining, the town centre is the ideal place for a leisurely shopping day. Discover artisanal shops and high-end fashion boutiques offering luxury items. Between purchases, indulge in local treats such as apple cakes, strudels, and hot chocolate at the town’s charming cafés and patisseries. For lunch or dinner, spoil yourself with local dishes like dumplings, speck, mountain cheeses, polenta, and other traditional specialities.
2. Visiting museums
On rainy days, explore the area’s museums and architectural gems, such as the Museum of the Ancient Glassworks in Carisolo, the Dairy Museum in Caderzone, the War Museum in Spiazzo, or the ethnographic collection at Casa Cus in Darè.
3. Relaxing at the Spa
If you are looking for alternative activities to do in Madonna di Campiglio in case of rain, a good idea could be to spend a day at the spa. The Terme Val Rendena, in Caderzone, are very well known and offer various services, including massages, sauna, wellness area and relaxation.
4. Tasting extra-virgin olive oil
Madonna di Campiglio’s proximity to Lake Garda offers opportunities for unique experiences, such as a guided extra-virgin olive oil tasting session in Arco. Learn to identify different oil varieties through a visual, olfactory, and gustatory analysis directly guided by the producer.
5. Wine tasting in a historic cellar
Head to the Valle dei Laghi in Pergolese, about an hour from Madonna di Campiglio, for a wine tasting experience. Held in a historic cellar, the activity includes a guided tour followed by sampling four wine varieties, alongside tastings of extra-virgin olive oil, rustic bread, local cheese, and typical cured meats.
What to do near Madonna di Campiglio?
From Madonna di Campiglio, it’s easy to reach other destinations by train, car, or public transport. Lake Garda is a popular choice, offering countless engaging, exciting, and unique indoor and outdoor activities. Explore all the experiences waiting for you at Lake Garda with NowMyPlace!
