• Lakes
    • Active & Green
    • Lifestyle

Guide to the seven lakes of Varese province

from Redazione Varese
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.

Take me here: Guida ai laghi della provincia di Varese

On the same topic

Show all

Brunate a view on the Belle Époque

Visit the "Balcony on the Alps".
Outdoor trip to Brunate
  • Lakes

3 LAKES TRAVEL CARD

Through Italy and Switzerland discovering the lakes area.
  • Lakes

Lago di Varese a jewel in the Alps

Just six kilometres away, this natural city break offers unexpected views, from water to mountains.
Lago di Varese Un gioiello tra le Alpi
  • Lakes

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.
Lago d'Idro Fresche e dolci acque
  • Lakes

Lake Iseo From Shore to Shore by Boat

  • Lakes

Luino

The tourist boast of Luino is the picturesque and folkloristic weekly market.
The Luino Market
  • Lakes

Lake Maggiore

The Doll Museum. The villages and the districts. Trekking, horse riding and water sports. Advice for experiencing Lake Maggiore
Vivere il Lago Maggiore
  • Lakes

Vacation at Lombardy Lakes

The Lombardy lakes offer quality services and accommodation for every type of holiday.
Vacation at Lombardy lakes, ideas for planning
  • Lakes

Canoeing

Canoeing
  • Lakes

5 Thing-to-do in Domaso

An amazing place for your active holiday on Lake Como
domaso cose fare
  • Lakes

Lago di Como:Bellagio, the pearl

One of the world's best-loved places, Bellaggio lies on the tip of the central headland, offering convenient ferry access to both branches of the lake
Lago di Como: Bellagio, la perla
  • Lakes

Iseo Lake’s activities

Culture, nature, sports, beaches and good food on Lake Iseo.
Iseo Lake: culture, nature, sport, beaches and good food
  • Lakes

5 Thing-to-do in Menaggio

Be enchanted by Menaggio, marvelous town on Lake Como
cosa fare a menaggio lungolago
  • Lakes

5 Thing-to-do in Lecco

Welcome in the Town of The Betrothed, between Lake Como and the Mountains
Lecco
  • Lakes

Dream beaches on Lake Garda

For an escape from the August heat in Lombardy, why not visit these 5 heavenly beaches on Lake Garda?
  • Lakes

Como Photo Gallery

Ideas and ideas for your holiday on the lake.
Como and its Lake from a to Z hits for an unforgettable vacation
  • Lakes

Lago Maggiore Artist’s brushstrokes

Trompe l’oeil frescos, five centuries of pictorial cycles, spontaneous and organised murals: colour is everywhere in and around Laveno Mombello
Lago Maggiore Pennellate d'artista
  • Lakes

Discover Alto Garda bresciano

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

Lago di Iseo: prehistory and bubbles

The Valle Camonica rock engravings are as famous worldwide as the wine made in Franciacorta. On a journey of discover what else this area has to offer
Lago di Iseo Preistoria e bollicine
  • Lakes

Lake Como in spring

Discovering Lake Como, among blooming wisteria, idyllic landscapes and crystal clear waters.
Visiting the Villas by boat
  • Lakes