Struggling to find an easy bike ride for early riders or little ones who get bored in the carrier? This ride around Lake Molveno and Lake Nembia is the perfect solution! It’s spectacular, offers plenty of kid-friendly stops, and boasts amazing views.
Molveno Lake Ride Info
We explored this trail with our little one in a shotgun seat. While we love this setup, our child typically limits rides to a maximum of 1.5 hours since it’s a bit like riding for him too. For this type of ride, or for early rides with small children on their bikes, this trail is ideal as it’s almost entirely on forest roads with only gentle ascents.
This ride is also suitable for parents carrying their little ones in a baby carrier, with one exception: the return journey from Nembia to Molveno. For this section, we recommend taking the main road due to a few very narrow passages on a walkway. Alternatively, you can return via the same trail to avoid paved roads altogether.
If you’re a hiker, we recommend focusing solely on the Lake Molveno portion of the ride. It’s beautiful and was one of my favorite hiking tours when I was pregnant.
Parking
Most parking around Lake Molveno is paid. However, if you’re lucky, you might find a spot in the free parking area Valbinaga directly in front of the Charme Hotel Nevada. From there, a short 2-minute walk leads you to Lake Molveno.
When to Visit
I’d say this trail is perfect for any season, even on very hot days, as it’s mostly shaded by trees. Since this trail is shared with hikers, we recommend avoiding super crowded days. This is especially true for the return trail on the opposite side of the lake from Molveno village, as it can be narrow. If you’re only doing the starting section of the trail, it’s wide enough that you won’t have to stop each time you encounter hikers.
Ride Start and End: Molveno
If you’re eager to start your ride, it’s best to save the many playgrounds in Molveno for the end of your adventure. There are at least three playgrounds: a small one right in front of Tandem Fly area, a really large one in front of the pump track and kids’ bike skills area, and another one near the Bar la Playa. Additionally, if you’re visiting in the summer, there’s a water park (Acquapark Molveno) right at the lake beach. You can even book electric boats there! So, you’ll have everything you need to keep your little ones entertained both at the beginning and end of your bike ride.
Molveno to Nembia Ride
This part of the ride is entirely on a wide forest road, easily accommodating both hikers and bikers. It passes right along the lake and at one point offers a view overlooking a waterfall. You’ll also pass by the dam, which has historical significance and powers the Santa Massenza hydroelectric plant.
Lake Nembia
Lake Nembia is a beautiful result of an environmental restoration project. Originally, a small lake existed there, but it was destroyed by a dam constructed to raise Molveno’s water level. The dam was later demolished, leading to the re-creation of Lake Nembia, which now has a continuous water supply through a new artificial inlet.
This small, artificial lake boasts unique colors. The contrast between its crystal-clear water and the majestic Brenta Dolomites behind it is stunning. At the lake, you’ll find a spacious playground and large large lawn with many tables and benches. Parking is also available directly at the lake if you plan to visit only this area. You might frequently spot fishermen here, adding an even quieter vibe to this peaceful oasis.
Return Ride
Along the trail from Nembia to Lake Molveno, you might spot the “three little pigs and their houses,” so keep your eyes peeled! We also searched for the wolf, but didn’t find it. These are part of a kid-themed trail you’ll pass on this ride.
When you reach Lake Molveno, you can choose to ride the other part of the lake or return via the same trail. The other side of the lake has a narrow trail. So if you’re visiting on very crowded days or with a large baby carrier, we advise you to go back the same way or take the main road. If conditions are right, definitely ride it, as it offers truly spectacular views and another small waterfall too!
Why visiting the Molveno Area?
As enduro lovers, the main reason that draws us here is the renowned Paganella Bike Park.
Enjoy this family ride in the morning. In the afternoon, hit the bike park (4-hour ticket recommended), as Tribe Daddy often does. The trails offer impressive variety and excellent maintenance. Even built, they feel like natural paths, blending seamlessly with the mountain. You can enter the bike park directly in Molveno, where the easiest trails are located. From there, you can reach Andalo, home to the most famous intermediate-level trails, and then head to the Fai della Paganella zone if you’re seeking more of a downhill vibe.
Hikers will also have a blast here! Many trails are available, and you can also opt to go up with a gondola and hike at higher altitudes, perhaps reaching the wonderful Rifugio la Montanara or Cima Paganella. If you love biking or mountain sports with the entire family, Molveno is your destination!
For more inspiration for your next family ride in Trentino, visit our dedicated page. Discover all the details on easy rides for the entire family (including information for those with a baby carrier).
