If you are looking for something, be it food, clothing or antiques, you can find it at the market!

Not just snow... in Val Seriana and Val di Scalve many activities for all seasons.

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 LAKESLake 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 HISTORYLake 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 WATERSLake 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.

From one-day trips that anyone can enjoy, to climbing on the vertical walls of the Grigne, through to splendid hikes leading up to the mountain refuges

This itinerary, which starts in the province of Brescia, Valcamonica, reaches as far as the beauties of Valtellina.   Its landscapes are representative of the landscape types found in the Alps. One can discover here, among ancient Valtellina villages and flavors, its history and food and wine culture, tasting a nice plate of typical salami or sciatt and the very famous pizzoccheri. The route begins at the San Giacomo di Tellio station and ends at the Edolo train station. From San Giacomo we arrive at the junction with Carona and follow the road with numerous hairpin bends, which will take us almost to the center of Carona. Just before the village we turn left and take the road going downhill, in the direction of Aprica. The road then descends again to the Gadda power plant and climbs again to join the state road, just before the Aprica pass. After about a hundred meters, we reach the old road, via Liscidini, which we find on the right, and we travel the entire length of the old road leading to the border with the province of Brescia. From here the Valeriana road leads us to Edolo. ITINERARY Distance: 33 kmDifficulty: difficultRoad surface: asphalt, a short stretch of dirt road between San Pietro Aprica and Corteno GolgiElevation gain: +2155m, -1830 m; (Max slope: 44.1%, -46.1% Average slope:10.4%, -8.3%)Suitable for: trained usersRecommended type of bike: allAverage duration: 3 h approx. SOME POINTS OF INTEREST Rustic villages of ValtellinaAlong the way you can easily reach villages located in the side valleys or on the valley slopes, where you can immerse yourself in the flavors of Valtellina along the wine route.Useful info: https://www.stradadelvinovaltellina.it/borghi-antichi.html Ganda power plantThis plant uses the waters of the Belviso stream and those of its tributaries. The main barrage consists of a concrete dam and is equipped with a surface outlet.Useful info: https://www.edison.it/it/la-centrale-idroelettrica-ganda-so Calefe sawmill in Corteno GolgiBuilt in 1879, it was in operation until the late 1890s. The sawmill was called "Venetian-style" because it was widespread during the time of the Venetian Republic.Useful info: http://www.cortenogolgi.it/index.php/territorio/segheria-veneziana Golgi Museum of Corteno GolgiOpened in 2006, housed on the second floor is a reproduction of the histological laboratory of Camillo Golgi, an Italian scientist and physician born in Corteno. On the second floor are study rooms and the teaching room.Useful info: http://www.museogolgi.it/Tel. 0364.740401/340.3602512; E-mail: info@museogolgi.it - conservatore@museogolgi.itHours: Open Saturdays and Sundays for the entire summer season (July 1 to Sept. 30). Guided tours are by reservation only throughout the year. St. John the Baptist in EdoloThe simplicity of the exterior structure, rebuilt in the 16th century, contrasts with the richly frescoed, three-aisled interior. The fresco cycle is attributed to Paolo da Caylina the Younger.Useful info: https://goo.gl/y4p4QE

The emotions of those who decide to visit Cremona

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

Feel like escaping to the mountains and treating yourself to a relaxing break? Discover your destination less than two hours from Milan

These mountains guard a World Heritage Site and offer nature holidays spent climbing, walking and pedalling   ExcursionsThe Valle Camonica is a wide, level valley in the central Alps. Crossed by the River Oglio, dominated by the Adamello mountain range, the valley is home to one of the world’s biggest collections of prehistoric rock art, the first site in Italy to be added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites. This area, with its many lakes, mountains, nature parks and immense landscapes, takes visitors back ten thousand years on a journey in time from the Mesolithic period to modern day. 5 mountain refuges on a circular route of Val MalgaA lovely one-day trail from Ponte del Guat (Guat bridge) in Val Malga takes hikers across the valley, discovering the welcoming mountain refuges of Valle Camonica Premassone, Tonolini, Baitone and Gnutti. The latter marks the start of an alpine trail that then leads up to the top of the Adamello. The Val Malga hike calls for some care on the stretch between the Gnutti and Baitone refuges and can be completed in 4 hours. Meanwhile, those preferring a hike lasting several days can follow the Alta Via dell'Adamello (Path/Sentiero no. 1), a wonderful trail, but only for fit hikers carrying all the equipment needed for high alpine routes. It includes in fact some rather exposed via ferratas (with fixed ropes, ladders, etc.). This route goes from Breno to Edolo and must only be undertaken by very expert hikers or with mountain guides. Each stage and each mountain refuge are starting points for short-medium hikes. The route can however also be enjoyed as one-day hikes, thanks to paths that link it with the valley bottom. Three-day Glacier hikeThe Adamello also offers the chance to enjoy the experience of a hike to the glacier. The Pian di Neve is a hikers’ dream because on clear days it allows amazing views reaching as far as Monte Rosa. Mountaineering fans can, on the other hand, test their skills along the skills along the Sentiero dei Fiori, a panoramic ferrata that ensures incredible views, suitable for experienced hikers.. The Oglio cycle pathFrom gentler walks to hikes uphill or along the trails and steep downhill unmade paths:discovering Vale Camonica by bike is spectacular. A cycle and pedestrian path starts at the Passo del Tonale pass, linking no fewer than 280 km of paths along the Oglio riverbanks and winding through the varied landscape of the valley, until it comes to the banks of Lake Iseo and through the Franciacorta vineyards. For keen mountain bikers,the Adamello Bike Arena offers more than 500 km of trails between the Valle Camonica and Va di Sole valleys, even entering the Stelvio and Adamello nature parks. The Passo del Tonale also has downhill and free-ride trails. Bienno, one of Italy’s most beautiful villages In Biennio, which belongs to the Club de I Borghi più belli d’Italia (“The most beautiful villages in Italy” club) visitors get a chance to relive a medieval atmosphere. Walking down its streets, they can see characteristic houses, towers and noble buildings, visit the Fucina Museo (Forge Museum) with its impressive waterpowered trip hammer and the (also water-powered) mill with adjacent museum of country life. A must-visit is the church of Santa Maria Annunciata, which still has beautiful frescos by Romanino, one of the most important painters from the Lombardy school and by the local artist Pietr da Cenno and his atelier.    Highlights1. Art. Worth a visit are the Pieve di San Siro church and the Monastero di San Salvatore in Capo di Ponte, both evidence of Romanesque architecture in Valle Camonica, and the Shrine to the Via Crucis in Cerveno with the Sacro Monte, or Sacred Mountain. 2. History. Valle Camonica, also known as Valle dei Segni, or the Valley of Signs, conserves a huge heritage of rock engravings. The Naquane National Park in Capo di Ponte and the MUPRE (National Museum of Prehistory) in Valle Camonica are both must visits. There are other parks in Dafro Boario Terme, Ceto, Cimbergo, Paspardo, Sellero, Sonico and Ossimo. 3. Sport. Renowned as an active holiday destination in both summer and winter, Valle Camonica has plenty to offer (hiking, MTB and road bike paths, cycling tourism, climbing, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoe walking and much more) with Ponte di Legno - Tonale,Borno, Montecampione and the Aprica mountain pass. 4. Food and wine. Foodies should check out the local dairy products, especially Fatulì (a Slow Food Presidium), a smoked goat’s cheese made with raw milk from the Bionda dell’Adamello goat, which can be tasted in the mountain refuges in Val Saviore and Silter Doc, a mountain cheese made with raw cow’s milk. 5. Events. In June, the Fiera della Sostenibilità della Natura Alpina is a sustainability fair organised by the Valle Camonica Mountain Community – Adamello Park. A must-visit is the Market-Exhibition in Bienno, with over 200 exhibitors from all over Italy and stalls with typical traditional valley dishes. Finally, the “Del Bene e del Bello” exhibition of cultural heritage.

A cool summer spent high in the mountains: 9 alpine huts, 2 bivouacs and a lodge to add to your Lombardy bucket list

Ancient castles, amusement parks and interactive museums. Discover what Lombardy offers for children. First stop, Milan.