Overlooking the clear waters of Lake Garda like a natural balcony, San Zeno di Montagna is a small Venetian gem that wins the heart of every visitor. Immersed in the scents of the Monte Baldo woods and breathtaking views ranging from the blue of the lake to the alpine peaks, this village tells an ancient story of traditions, nature, and authentic flavours.

The village of San Zeno di Montagna

With just over 1,500 inhabitants, San Zeno di Montagna stretches across about 28 square kilometers on the western slopes of Monte Baldo, at an altitude of around 600 meters. The atmosphere is that of a mountain village, where time seems to slow down among cobbled alleys, ancient stone houses, and farmyards that speak of a rural past still alive in the community’s social fabric. From here, the view over Lake Garda is simply unmatched, earning it the nickname “balcony on Lake Garda”.

The Contrade (Hamlets)

San Zeno di Montagna is a mosaic of ancient hamlets, each with its own identity and history. The “contrade”—such as Ca’ Montagna, Ca’ Schena, Canevoi, Sperane, Capra, Ca’ Sartori, Le Tese, Castello, Laguna, Borno, Villanova, La Ca’, Pora, and Pra’ Bestemà—originated as medieval settlements, often clustered around fortified farmyards or enriched with architectural elements of value. Even today, walking through these hamlets, you can feel the authentic mountain life atmosphere, made up of close relationships and a strong sense of community.

The 52 Malghe (Mountain Huts)

One of the most distinctive features of the area is its 52 mountain huts, ancient rural structures dotting the slopes of Monte Baldo above 1,000 meters. Dating back to the Venetian period, the huts are recognizable by their typical architecture: a large protruding chimney and a rounded end, designed to shelter people and animals during the long alpine pasture months. These buildings still represent a valuable cultural and landscape heritage, testimony to the symbiosis between humans and the mountain.

Alpine pasturing and shepherding

Life in San Zeno di Montagna has been shaped for centuries by the rhythms of alpine pasturing and shepherding. In the summer months, herds were taken to the high pastures, where fresh grass and mountain flowers gave the milk unique aromas and flavours. Here, in the “malghe”, shepherds processed the freshly milked milk, producing cheeses and butter according to ancient recipes passed down through generations. Livestock farming and agriculture were for a long time the main source of livelihood for the community, helping to shape the landscape and keep traditions alive, still celebrated today at local festivals.

Polenta, cheeses and hestnuts

The cuisine of San Zeno di Montagna is a journey through the genuine flavours of the Venetian mountains. The undisputed queen of the table is polenta, made with local cornmeal and often accompanied by fresh or aged cheeses, the result of the “malghe”’s cheesemaking art. Monte Baldo cheeses are known for their aromatic intensity, thanks to pastures rich in wild herbs. Another typical product is the “marroni”, prized chestnuts that grow in the surrounding woods and become the stars of festivals and traditional recipes in autumn. Tasting these products means savouring the history and culture of a land whose hallmark is authenticity.

San Zeno di Montagna is not just a destination for nature and relaxation lovers, but a place where you can rediscover the value of traditions, conviviality, and genuine flavours. A village that, with its discreet beauty and sincere hospitality, invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and be captivated by the timeless charm of the mountains reflected in Lake Garda.