Cadorna line

Discovering extraordinary testimonies of military engineering of World War First in a land which, immersed in the green of the Pre-Alpine valleys, overlooks the blue color of the waters.

An extraordinary complex of military engineering of the First World War immersed in the green of the Pre-Alpine valleys, overlooking the blue color of the lakes.72 kilometers of trenches are still accessible today, on foot or by bike.

The Cadorna Line is an important witness of World War First, but it is also a suggestive excursion itinerary to follow on foot or on your mountain bike. Venturing along the line is a chance to follow the thread of Italian history, like walking into an extraordinary landscape and discovering at the same time a stupefying complex of military archaeology.

Speaking about the Cadorna Line means referring to the defensive system situated along the border between Italy and Switzerland, designed by General Luigi Cadorna with the purpose to contain Austro-German attacks during the Great War. Between 1916 and 1918, thousands of men and women were engaged in the construction of mule tracks, trenches, defensive fortresses, artillery positions and sighting outposts, small field hospitals and logistic and coordination structures.

The result of the works is still visible today, thanks to over 300 km streets, 400 km mule paths and 72 km trenches available for public access. To undertake this exciting excursion, we can start from different locations around Varese, like Cassano Valcuvia or Monte Marzio.