• Active & Green

Cool summer escapes

Between all its lakes and rivers, summer in Lombardy flows slowly, with enchanting landscapes to relax and cool off.

from IN-LOMBARDIA.IT
  1. Experiences in Lombardy
  2. Active & Green
  3. Cool summer escapes

When the heat becomes intense, there is nothing better than letting water guide you.

Among alpine lakes nestled between the mountains, relaxing boat rides on lakes and rivers, and exploring pools of water surrounded by nature, these six destinations invite you to rediscover Lombardy’s landscape treasures.

The perfect chance to explore local sights from a unique perspective, by taking time to visit the towns by the water and explore natural trails and routes away from the most touristy locations. Because summer is the perfect time for relaxing and indulging in some well-being, with a weekend getaway or a day trip with friends. 

Cruising on Lake Garda (BS)
Lemons and Mediterranean colours and flavours? You can find them even in Lombardy! In summer, a fascinating cruise on the Brescia side of Lake Garda is the perfect way to rediscover the charming towns facing the lake: from Sirmione to Salò and Limone del Garda, lose your gaze among the castles reflected in the water, lemon groves perched up on the hills, classy city centres and pastel-tinted docks. On the Lemon Riviera, the golden light caresses the river banks, and the blooming flowers frame a picture-perfect backdrop for the Italian Dolce Vita.
Rock pools along the trails (LC)
If you love walking among nature and dream of a relaxing and rejuvenating pause in summer, the trails in the Lecco province offer natural rock pools surrounded by the greatest settings: from the Pozze di Erve, to the Sentiero delle Vasche in Valmadrera, and the natural pools formed by the Cascate del Cenghen. Take a dip in these cool, crystal-clear waters for a rejuvenating hike surrounded by lush vegetation, and find the perfect spot in the shade to relax, with your feet cooling off in such transparent pools. A unique oasis you’ll marvel at, just outside the city.
Boating among lotus flowers on the Mincio River (MN)
If you are looking for an Eastern-inspired natural marvel, the Mincio Nature Reserve offers a unique show during the summer. Between July and August, the river fills up with a carpet of lotus flowers. Is there any better way to observe the blooming nature than a relaxing boat tour? With Mantova in the background, this Mincio river boat tour flanks enchanting towns, such as Rivalta sul Mincio and Grazie di Curtatone. This is where the ancient Fiera delle Grazie, with pavement artists from all over the world creating incredible sacred artworks, takes place.
Discovering the alpine lakes (SO)
The alpine lakes amidst the valleys in the Sondrio province are a paradise for hiking lovers, and intimately fascinating venues to reconnect with nature. From the artificial lakes of Cancano, in upper Valtellina, to the Bidet della Contessa in Val di Mello, these water bodies nestled among forests and mountains offer a scenic resting spot after a summer trek, to enjoy some peace and quiet and rediscover some hidden natural spots, embellished by a crystal-clear beauty in the summer.
Canoeing down the Baia del Bogn (Riva di Solto, BG)
If you love exploring Lombardy in a slow fashion, then a canoe is the right way to discover the secret allure of Lake Iseo. From Riva di Solto, paddle toward Baia del Bogn and witness the landscape change at every stroke: set between rocky walls gently brushing the water and fascinating views of wild nature, the bay appears suddenly before your eyes, enclosed by vertical cliffs and deep water. Admire this natural treasure trove in silence, suspended between the sky and the lake.
Valle Sabbia and Lake d’Idro (BS)
Surrounded by the flush forests on the banks of Lake d’Idro, Valle Sabbia is a natural oasis to discover with the entire family in the summer. Its scenic trails can be done both on foot and on a mountain bike, and lead to Casto’s Parco delle Fucine, a jewel set between waterfalls, crystal-clear water ponds and suspended bridges, where you can enjoy some adrenaline-fuelling activities, such as climbing and zip lines, or relax for a picnic and take a stroll to see the ancient mills. A few kilometres away, Lake d’Idro welcomes you with its quiet banks, to relax on the many beaches.

On the same topic

Show all

Val Masino, the untamed heart of the Rhaetic mountains

Outdoor activities and chilling in Europe's little Yosemite. Mountains and valleys where nature rules supreme and the man who enjoys it respects its beauty
  • Active & Green
Val Masino, cuore selvaggio delle Retiche

Sports in Monza

Outdoor activities in the heart of Brianza
  • Active & Green
Sport a Monza

The most beautiful gorges!

The six most beautiful gorges to visit in Lombardy: those of Bellano and Nesso, the most famous, and the equally spectacular gorges of Caino, Cunardo, Val Taleggio and Via Mala
  • Active & Green
The most beautiful gorges in Lombardy - Bellano - discoveringbellano.eu

Levadina

Walking in the Levadina Oasis of San Donato Milanese, an opportunity to spend an afternoon immersed in nature.
  • Active & Green
Levadina

The joy of running

Enjoy your training in Cremona
  • Active & Green
The joy of running

A green week in Valtellina

Escape to the mountains just a two-hour drive from Milan for a rural retreat with trekking, typical pizzoccheri pasta and towns that are absolute hidden gems
  • Active & Green
A green week in Valtellina

Spring in Lombardy

Spring has arrived ... all to discover the beauties of Lombardy!
  • Active & Green
Spring in Lombardy: where to go and what to do

Bergamo Valle Seriana and the Presolana

The Valle Seriana Mountains are a wonderful tourist destination, perfect for discovering on foot, mountain bike or with fun off-road quad rides.
  • Active & Green
Bergamo La Valle Seriana e la Presolana

Five waterfalls to visit in Lombardy

Five ideas for a trip out of town to enjoy the spectacular waterfalls and picturesque scenery of Lombardy.
  • Active & Green
Five waterfalls to visit in Lombardy- ph@istock - inlombardia

Under the ground, to discover the caves of Lombardy

On a trip to the caves of Lombardy
  • Active & Green
Under the ground, to discover the caves of Lombardy

Aereoclub in Sondrio

Hover in the sky like butterflies, letting yourself be carried away by the high currents like seagulls in search of freedom
  • Active & Green
Aereoclub in Sondrio

Gardens Milan

Spring is the best time of year to enjoy a green Milan with unexpected views
  • Active & Green
Gardens Milan, guide for visiting

When picnics become chic

Five elegant picnic ideas in Lombardy, with delightful scenery and elegant food and wine experiences.
  • Active & Green
When picnics become chic

Lombardy, land of spring waters

Fountains and springs, the natural oases of Lower Lombardy
  • Active & Green
Lombardy, land of spring waters

Foliage in Lombardy

From Via Francigena to the Cadorna Line. Discover where to see the autumn colours in Lombardy
  • Active & Green
Via Francigena Corte Sant'Andrea Lodi

Excursions to Zelo Buon Persico

An itinerary to discover the canals and natural beauty of Lodigiano
  • Active & Green
Excursions to Zelo Buon Persico

Brescia Nature, taste and traditions: Val Sabbia

From multiple-day treks with night-breaks at mountain huts, to shorter walks open to all: a charming valley for all tastes set against the background of the little lake Idro
  • Active & Green
Brescia Nature, taste and traditions: Val Sabbia

Family walks to put a spring in your step

The transition from summer to autumn provides the ideal conditions for regenerating family moments along the scenic trails of Lombardy.
  • Active & Green
passeggiate_in_ Lombardia

Lombardy: spring has come to town

Spring flowers bloom on the balconies, terraces, window sills and in the gardens of Lombardy's towns and villages 
  • Active & Green
Lombardia: la primavera arriva in città

Livignese Park

Park of considerable environmental interest, for the naturalness of the typically alpine landscape and for the richness of the fauna patrimony.
  • Active & Green
Livignese park