Sanctuary of Montecastello, Tignale (BS)

Walk among greenery and timeless atmospheres

The Sanctuary of Montecastello, also known as the Madonna della Stella Sanctuary, is located on the Brescia side of Lake Garda, near Tignale. Perched on a rock spur of Monte Cas, it stands on the remains of a temple transformed into a castle over the centuries. Inside there are fascinating frescoes of the Giotto school, the "Casa Santa", a small temple probably dating back to around the 9th century, and the largest ex voto in Europe dating back to 1600. The name of Sanctuary of the Madonna della Stella has its origins date back to 1200, when – it is said – a miraculous apparition of a star put an end to a terrible battle between Brescia and Trentino.

The privileged position of the Montecastello Sanctuary offers visitors enchanting panoramas in an embrace that spreads from the high peaks of Monte Baldo to the peninsula of Sirmione.

The Sanctuary can be reached with a simple walk from Tignale, alternatively it is possible to take the path that leads from the monastery to the top, from which you have a wonderful view of Lake Garda, the Monte Baldo chain and the Castle of Malcesine.

HOW TO REACH THE SANCTUARY

It is possible to reach the Sanctuary of Montecastello on foot or by car. Those who prefer to reach it with a walk (about thirty minutes and a fairly steep climb) can start from the road between Olzano and Prabione (where you can also park your car) and follow the signs for Tignale along the western Garda state road. In less touristy moments it is also possible to go up with your own car and park it in the square of the Sanctuary, keeping in mind that the last stretch of road has several hairpin bends and is not particularly suitable for big cars.

PATH TO THE CROCE DI VETTA

After leaving the car near the square of the Sanctuary, take the CAI path 226, which promises the arrival at the top in just 45 minutes of walking. This first stretch is on an asphalted background, but you soon find yourself in the woods, which nonetheless has a very clean surface and a minimal slope. The path proceeds in and out of the thickest vegetation, in a succession of panoramic points, natural balconies, and rock spurs overlooking the lake so beautiful as to take your breath away.

Continue slightly uphill on a stony path until you reach a crossroads: on the left you continue in the woods, while on the right you continue on the side of a rocky wall, carefully dug out to facilitate the passage. In any case, after a few meters, this stretch rejoins the main path through a small tunnel. This, as well as the many caves, bunkers, and the path itself, testify to the presence of anti-aircraft military posts from the Great War, still visible today.

At this point the track forks: on the left a path that climbs into the woods reaches the summit cross crossing the ridge, while the right path follows almost the same route, but in a position less covered by trees, a few meters further downstream. The view from above is magnificent: in front of us Monte Baldo stands out in all its might, while looking down, however, you can see Lake Garda in all its proud grandeur from north to south. The village of Tremosine is also completely visible in its entirety, particularly spectacular from this privileged position, as well as of course the spur on which the Sanctuary of Montecastello stands. To return, simply retrace your steps and walk the same stretch as the outward journey.