Varese: walks, picnics, secret beaches. In the spring, spend a day outdoors in the land of the lakes.

Segregated bike lanes, fishing villages and historic parks. On the roads of a memorable edition of the Road World Cycling Championships

Nestled in the lush Campo dei Fiori Regional Park, the Sacro Monte di Varese is a breathtaking combination of spirituality, history, and stunning natural beauty. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this sacred mountain offers visitors a unique experience, blending cultural exploration with panoramic views of the Lombard landscape. What is the Sacro Monte di Varese? The Sacro Monte is a devotional path consisting of 14 Baroque chapels, each adorned with exquisite frescoes and sculptures depicting scenes from the life of Christ. This spiritual journey culminates at the Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Monte, a revered pilgrimage site perched atop the mountain. The route, designed in the 17th century, represents the religious fervor and artistic mastery of its time, making it a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts. A UNESCO Heritage Site with Rich History The Sacro Monte di Varese was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003, as part of the Sacri Monti of Piedmont and Lombardy, a group of nine devotional complexes built between the 16th and 17th centuries. These sites were created to provide an alternative to pilgrimages to the Holy Land, offering a spiritual experience closer to home. Each chapel along the 2-kilometer path is a masterpiece, reflecting the Baroque style’s grandeur. Renowned architects, painters, and sculptors collaborated to create a route that inspires devotion and awe. Walking this path is like stepping back in time, as you trace the footsteps of centuries of pilgrims. Why Visit the Sacro Monte di Varese? The Sacro Monte di Varese isn’t just a religious site; it’s an immersive cultural and natural experience. Here’s why it’s worth your visit: Art and Architecture: The chapels feature intricate frescoes and life-sized statues, showcasing the artistic brilliance of the Baroque period. Panoramic Views: As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Po Valley, Lake Varese, and, on clear days, the distant Alps. Historical Significance: The site offers a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic life of 17th-century Lombardy. Tranquility and Nature: The route winds through serene woods and offers a peaceful escape from urban life. How to Visit the Sacro Monte di Varese The trail begins at the First Chapel, located near the village of Sant’Ambrogio, and ends at the Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Monte. The walk takes about 2 hours, depending on your pace, and is suitable for all ages. For those unable to walk the path, a road provides access to the Sanctuary by car or bus. Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially in warmer months. Don’t miss the Museum Baroffio, located near the Sanctuary, which houses sacred art and historical artifacts. Plan your visit during spring or autumn to enjoy mild weather and vibrant landscapes. Sacro Monte di Varese: A Perfect Day Trip from Milan Located just an hour from Milan, the Sacro Monte di Varese is one of the best day trips in Lombardy. Its proximity to other attractions like Lake Maggiore and the Campo dei Fiori Regional Park makes it an excellent addition to any Northern Italy itinerary. Whether you’re drawn by the artistic heritage, the spiritual atmosphere, or the stunning scenery, the Sacro Monte di Varese promises an unforgettable experience. Step into this sacred haven and let its beauty and history transport you to another era. Sacro Monte di Varese | UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Italy | Baroque chapels in Lombardy | best day trips from Milan | cultural gems in Lombardy | hiking trails near Milan| history of Sacro Monte di Varese.

Angera, today a beautiful resort town on the Lombard shore of Lake Maggiore, has yielded the oldest evidence of human presence in the Varese area and was already in ancient times an important traffic station along the river-lacustrine trade routes straddling the Alps. Excavations, conducted since the end of 19th century, are frequently resumed even today and always return significant finds. The Municipial Archaeological Museum,  located in the centre of the town, is hosted in a beautiful 15th-century building and collects the most important historical records of the area. The first room is dedicated to Prehistory, with significat evidence from Upper Paleolitic to the Copper Age, including those found in the famous Grotta di Angera. In addition to the numerous original finds, a Tactile Table has been set up to allow all visitors to touch, smell and try out some of the prehistoric techniques attested in the area.  In the second room, the living area of Angera in Roman times is illustrated. There are numerous and significant testimonies to the culture, religion and structure of the ancient vicus, as well as coins and artefacts testifying to ancient trade relations with central Europe and the Mediterranean. A section is dedicated to rare and fascinating organic and food remains, including the Cislago olla containing rye, wheat and chestnut seeds, and the famous Panini di Angera, for which the village is second in Italy only to Pompeii. Large space is dedicated to Roman necropolises, from which come numerous grave goods, glass, ceramic and metal artefacts, oil lamps, coins and small jewellery. From the early Christian cemetery there is a 6th century marble slab with an inscription in Greek: it is the funerary stele of an ancient merchant who lived and was buried in Angera, but was born in Sirya; the find confirms the great mobility of peoples throughout the inhabited world since ancient times. Under the portico on the ground floor, there is a beautiful Lapidarium with statues, altars and fragments of funerary monuments, which is also accessible to the blind.  The rooms also host the MABA, Museo Archeologico dei Bambini – Angera, a colourful exhibition, created for the needs of children, to make them feel at ease in an accesible environment, in which they can find iconographic explainations, stools to reach the highest showcases, thematic books and games, thanks to which they can learn together with their parents The Archaeological Museum is hosted in the Palazzo del Pretorio, a 15th-century palace accessed from Via Marconi through a pointed arch portal in Angera stone.   The north side of a small courtyard is decorated with a portico supported by Angera stone columns with shielded and foliated capitals. In the 18th century it was the seat of the Pretorio, which became the Pretura in the 19th century. In the early 20th century it housed the Town Hall, which was transferred after the war.  Since 1982, the palace has housed the Museum on the first floor, where valuable evidence on the origins and history of Angera is collected.  

5 must-see places to visit in Varese

Small villages and hamlets, nestled in the valleys of the province, offer visitors an extraordinary blend of natural beauty and mural art.

Nestled in the Lombard Prealps, the Campo dei Fiori Regional Park is one of the most fascinating destinations in the province of Varese. This park combines stunning natural beauty, historical landmarks, and breathtaking views, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers, hikers, and mountain bikers. The Monte Campo dei Fiori: A Panoramic Paradise The park takes its name from Monte Campo dei Fiori, a mountain that rises to 1,226 meters (4,022 feet) above sea level. From the summit, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of Lake Varese, the Monte Rosa massif, and the Po Valley. Its network of trails caters to all skill levels, offering options for families, casual walkers, and experienced hikers. Top Activities for Outdoor Enthusiasts The Campo dei Fiori Regional Park offers a variety of activities: Hiking trails through forests and mountain landscapes, making it one of the best hiking spots near Milan. Mountain biking routes that challenge cyclists with rugged terrain and scenic vistas, perfect for exploring the cycling routes in Lombardy. Guided tours and cultural events that bring the park’s history and natural heritage to life. Family-friendly picnic areas surrounded by nature. Explore the Caves: An Underground Adventure The park is home to impressive karst formations, including several caves and caverns. Highlights include the Grotta Marelli and Grotta del Remeron, which are accessible through guided tours. These underground wonders feature unique rock formations and offer a glimpse into a hidden world beneath the surface. Tours are organized by local groups such as the Prealpine Speleological Group, making this an unforgettable experience for visitors, especially in the summer months. Best Hiking Trails in the Campo dei Fiori Regional Park The park boasts a vast network of well-marked trails, suitable for all fitness levels. A comprehensive Hiking Map is available at the park headquarters, providing details about trail difficulty, estimated times, and key landmarks. Some must-try trails include: Trail to Forte di Orino: A moderately challenging hike with panoramic views of the Alps. Sentiero delle Cappelle: A scenic path that leads to the Sacro Monte di Varese, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover the Historic Villages The park is surrounded by charming historic villages such as Velate, Orino, and Brinzio, which preserve the rich traditions of Lombard culture. Wander through cobblestone streets, visit ancient churches and mills, and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of these timeless hamlets. The UNESCO Heritage Site: Sacro Monte di Varese A standout attraction within the park is the Sacro Monte di Varese, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This sacred trail features 14 Baroque chapels, culminating at the Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Monte. The site is not only a place of religious significance but also an architectural and artistic masterpiece. Along the way, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Why Visit the Campo dei Fiori Regional Park? Whether you're looking for day trips from Milan, an adventure in Northern Italy, or simply a tranquil escape into nature, the Campo dei Fiori Regional Park has something for everyone. With its hiking trails, cycling routes, and climbing spots, it’s a top destination for outdoor activities in Lombardy. The park also offers plenty of opportunities for history and culture enthusiasts to explore. Plan your visit today and discover why this hidden gem is one of the best places to experience the natural and cultural beauty of Northern Italy! Keywords: Best hiking trails near Milan | cycling routes in Lombardy | rock climbing near Lake Maggiore | day trips from Milan to nature parks | hidden gems in Northern Italy | nature walks near Varese

It extends in the northern part of the Province of Varese, to the north of the capital city up to the border with the Swiss territory offering the opportunity to learn about the typical products and to discover the beauties of the landscape of the valleys and lakes

A beautiful lakefront and a very picturesque aura in the province of Varese

Parco della Quassa and Ispra furnaces: traces of history and beautiful paths along the lakefront.

Lakes and mountains. Tasty dishes, heritage of rural culture