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Guide to the seven lakes of Varese province

PH. © elisa piredda - @elipiredda

The province of Varese, in the heart of Lombardy, is a land of lakes and unspoiled nature.

Thanks to its proximity to Milan, it is the perfect destination for a short weekend getaway or an active vacation immersed in the beauty of the landscape. In this article, we explore the seven main lakes of the province, offering tips on when to visit, how to get there, and what activities to enjoy throughout the year.

LAKE MAGGIORE: ADVENTURE AND HISTORY IN ONE OF ITALY'S LARGEST LAKES
Lake Maggiore, on the Lombard shore, is perfect for those who love water sports and trekking. Summer is the ideal time for sailing, windsurfing, and kite surfing, while spring and autumn offer perfect conditions for exploring the surrounding mountains. Easily reachable by car or train to Laveno-Mombello, you can't miss the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso, an enchanting monastery perched on a cliff. The Borromean Islands, famous for their gardens and historic villas, are easily accessible by ferry and represent a must-see stop.

LAKE VARESE: AN EXPERIENCE OF NATURE AND HISTORY
Lake Varese is one of the main attractions of the province. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit, thanks to the mild climate and vibrant natural colors. In summer, it’s perfect for outdoor activities. Less than an hour's drive from Malpensa airport, it is also well-served by public transport. Here, sports enthusiasts can enjoy the 28-kilometer bike path that surrounds the lake, ideal for cyclists and runners, while water sports lovers can rent canoes and kayaks. Don’t miss a visit to Isolino Virginia, a prehistoric archaeological site, and the charming village of Cazzago Brabbia, known for its fishing traditions.

LAKE MONATE: RELAXATION AND CRYSTAL-CLEAR WATERS
Lake Monate is an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxing day. While it can be visited year-round, summer is the ideal time for swimming in its crystal-clear waters, renowned for their quality. Located just 45 minutes from Malpensa airport and from Switzerland borders, it offers activities such as swimming, canoeing, and pedal boating. Nearby, you can discover villages like Osmate and Cadrezzate, perfect for picnics and scenic walks.

LAKE COMABBIO: CYCLE TOURISM AND NATURE
Lake Comabbio is perfect for cyclists and walking enthusiasts. The best times to visit are spring and autumn, when the temperatures are ideal for exploring the lake by bike or on foot. Accessible via a bike path that connects to Lake Varese, the 12 km route is perfect for cycle tourism and birdwatching. Don’t miss the Sanctuary of Madonna della Ghianda, an important religious site nearby.

LAKE GHIRLA: A HAVEN OF TRANQUILITY
Lake Ghirla, a charming small lake, is ideal for those seeking relaxation and nature. It’s perfect in summer for swimming and in winter for its snowy landscape. A short distance from Varese, it’s easily reachable by car and offers picnicking and swimming in the summer, while in winter you can visit Marchirolo, a village famous for its historic frescoes and farming traditions.

LAKE GANNA: A HIDDEN GEM IN THE CAMPO DEI FIORI REGIONAL PARK
Lake Ganna is a hidden gem in the Campo dei Fiori Regional Park, best visited in winter when its waters freeze over, creating a surreal landscape. Easily reachable from Varese, it also offers hiking and mountain biking trails throughout the other seasons. Nearby, the Badia di Ganna, a medieval abbey, offers a fascinating glimpse into the religious history of the region.

LAKE CERESIO: TRANQUILITY AND WATER SPORTS
Finally, Lake Ceresio, the Lombard shore of Lake Lugano, is a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and water sports. Summer is ideal for swimming or activities like canoeing, kayaking, and sailing, while walks along the lake’s shores are pleasant in both spring and autumn. Located on the border between Italy and Switzerland, it’s easily accessible from both Milan and Lugano. From here, you can explore Monte San Giorgio, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in trails, and visit picturesque villages like Porto Ceresio, perfect for a relaxing stroll.

The lakes of the province of Varese offer diverse experiences for every type of traveler and in every season. From cyclists to water sports lovers, to those seeking tranquility or immersion in local history and culture, Varese is an ideal destination for all. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a relaxing weekend, the Varese lakes are an unmissable choice in northern Italy. Visit the province of Varese and discover all it has to offer: nature, adventure, and culture await you.

Take me here: Guide to the seven lakes of Varese province

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