Guide to the seven lakes of Varese province

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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.

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

Lago d'Idro Clear cool water

At the foot of the Piccole Dolomiti mountains, and surrounded by their wooded slopes, this is almost a mountain lagoon.

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Lago Maggiore Old stories

Finds from the Iron Age, evidence of the Ice Age, monuments of industrial archaeology, dolls from the eighteenth century to date: lower Lago Maggiore (the Verbano area)

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Guide to the seven lakes of Varese province

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The Lombardy Shore of Lake Maggiore — Exploring historic villages

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Lago di Como: more than Manzoni

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Flying Over Lake Como

Bellagio and Varenna. The profiles of historic houses. Flying over Lake Como, departing from the historic Aero Club.

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Lago di Iseo: the pleasant isle

Cars are not allowed on Monte Isola island, where visitors must walk or cycle as they explore the delightfully silent, narrow streets in its villages

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Discover Alto Garda bresciano

Towns perched on cliffs over the water, with dizzy views. And roads dug out of the rock, as harsh as…

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Lakeside and centre of gravedona

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Lake Garda Photo Gallery

Photo exhibition to tell the beauty of this territory.

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Lecco in Spring

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Lake Como in 5 Villas

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Centre of colico

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Iseo Lake’s activities

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Explore Lake Idro and its surroundings

At an altitude of four hundred metres, Lake Idro is a place of peace, nature and history, and is the coolest and most secluded of the Lombard lakes

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Lago Maggiore Unspoilt landscapes

Monteviasco can only be reached on foot or by cableway from Ponte di Piero. This village is famous for its 18th century mills placed in a natural setting.