What has attracted adventurers and photographers for over 25 years as a ‘lost place’ attraction is soon to disappear from the Lake Garda landscape. In July 2026, the Province of Trento announced the purchase of the Casa della Trota for 2.3 million euros, as reported by several media outlets. The former hotel, also known as the Hotel Ponale or Trout House, is situated directly at the mouth of the River Ponale where it flows into Lake Garda, just north of the Hotel Pier, built into the rock. The complex was accessible both by boat and by car via a tunnel running above it. Today, graffiti and increasing dilapidation bear witness to the state of the ruins. Social media is regularly filled with images of people entering the site or even jumping from the balconies. The hotel is also a frequently featured backdrop in surfing photos from Lake Garda and a popular starting point for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) tours or wing surfing.
The Casa della Trota owes its fame primarily to its extraordinary location. The former hotel was built right up against a rock face and once offered a spectacular view of Lake Garda. The provincial authorities are now planning to demolish the dilapidated sections of the building and restore the historically significant 18th-century core of the building.
Walking route and cycle path
The popular Strada del Ponale walking route is set to benefit most from the demolition. By clearing the cliff, the path will be better connected to the lakeshore in future. A small access point to the water is also planned. According to the provincial authorities, the project will help to enhance the environmental and landscape quality of the area.
The Ciclovia del Garda cycle route is also set to benefit from the demolition. Without the ruins, the tunnel originally planned will no longer be necessary. Instead, a section of the cycle route around 300 metres long can be built on the space that becomes available. Construction work is scheduled to begin in October 2027.
