Places suspended between land and water

Lombardy’s landscapes unfurl before you in a smooth balance ofvalleys, rolling hills and imposing mountains, shaped by the passage of streams, rivers, and lakes adding to their stunning effect.

A natural mosaic, bursting with a range of different colours that show us the identity of a region that offers so much to explore. From river beaches to rock spurs suspended over the water, and from panoramic balconies immersed in the green to the traditional old villages caressed by waterfalls, every location is an invitation to slow down and enjoy the wonder. If you love to go on walks where you can contemplate the natural beauty, then these six destinations suspended between land and water are an ideal way to see Lombardy from a different perspective. It might be a regenerating walk, a hiking trip, or simply a moment of peace and quiet: every experience can become an authentic opportunity to connect with nature and the area.

Spiaggia della Luna (Gerre de’ Caprioli, CR) — The Spiaggia (or Spiaggione) della Luna is an expanse of sand, covering some 30 hectares, along the banks of the River Po, in the Parco del Po e del Morbasco a nature park in the municipality of Gerre de’ Caprioli. Here, in the district of Borgo Ex Parmigiano, an old river settlement in the Cremona valley, the beach emerges like a vast strip of stunning, wild nature, where pale sand meets the slow rhythm of the river Po. A continuously evolving ecosystem, shaped over time by the course of the river, and now an ideal oasis for walks, bike rides, and outdoor activities.

Borgonuovo di Piuro (SO) — The identity of the village of Borgonuovo di Piuro, in Valchiavenna has been influenced by thewater that moulds the landscape and preserves its memory. Once the nerve centre of the valley, this fascinating village bears the name of Piuro, an ancient municipality buried by a tragic landslide in 1618. Today the village lives suspended between history and natural beauty, with above it the famous Acquafraggia Waterfalls, cascading down between the rocks and the woods, framing their unique setting. This is the perfect place for walks, nature treks and panoramic breaks surrounded by the silence of the Alps.

Sasso di Dascio (CO) — In the Nature Reserve of Pian di Spagna, where the River Mera widens out to flow into Lake Mezzola, stands Sasso di Dascio, which offers spectacular views over the surrounding landscape, allowing you to appreciate the natural features. This rocky spur, part of the municipality of Sorico and within reach from Ponte di Passo, where you can leave the car. This is the most panoramic point of Pian di Spagna. A refuge between the expanses of green and the water courses, a space for precious wildlife conservation, where you can enjoy the hiking routes and immersive excursions just a stone's throw from Lake Como.

Baluardo di Varenna (LC) — The Baluardo di Varenna is all that remains of the fortified castle built by the Sforza family during the Venetian wars. Today it is a panoramic balcony looking out over the lake, a grassy refuge surrounded by cypress trees, immersed in the natural silence. Like a treasure, preserved through time, it unveils itself to hikers who walk through the woods. It can be reached on foot just 30 minutes from the centre of Varenna, along the trail leading to the source of the Fiumelatte river, or taking a detour along the Lierna-Varenna section of the Wayfarer's Path [Sentiero del Viandante], where the views are nothing short of breathtaking.

Riserva naturale di Castellaro Lagusello (MN) — Castellaro Lagusello, mediaeval village in the municipality of Monzambano (province of Mantua) has a traditional charm all its own, with town walls around the castle, looking out over a romantic, heart-shaped lake. The beauty of this place is enhanced by its stunning setting: the Castellaro Lagusello Nature Reserve, the centre of the moraine complex where the low, rolling hills stretch from Lake Garda and into the plain, creating an expanse of green, with wetlands and small bodies of water. An area to discover, with nature trails and photographic views.

Mulini Asciutti (Monza, MB) — The Complesso Molitorio dei Mulini Asciutti, inside Monza Park, is a precious testament to 19th-century agriculture. At the heart of the project is the Mulini Asciutti farmhouse, consisting of twin buildings separated by a roggia, an artificial canal deviated from the course of the River Lambro. Here you will find the old engine rooms and the kitchens of the mill, now used as a learning centre. The surrounding area is filled with educational vegetable gardens and woodland workshops that make this a magical place for learning and discovery.

Gardens Monza

Relax and nature among the rose gardens in Villa Reale of Monza and in the parks of the province.

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Gardens Pavia

Not just the city: a walk through botanic gardens and oasis for a green break

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The trail of memories and labours

This trail was dedicated to the memory of the inhabitants of Castione who, in the past generations, walked along this path carrying heavy pack baskets. The path linked the highest part of the town to the valley floor and allowed people to carry out farm works.

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The High Route of Valmalenco – 7th stage

Rif Bignami (2382 m) - A Gembrè (2190 m) - A Val Poschiavina (2230 m) - Passa Canciano (2464 m) - Passo Campagneda (2601 m) - Rif. Cristina (2227 m)

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Gardens Sondrio

In the green heart of Lombardy, in parks and gardens a path among thousands of species of plants

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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

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Sempione park

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Parco dello Stelvio, Bormio and Valdidentro

Walks and strenuous hikes in the heart of the Stelvio National Park surrounded by unspoilt nature and in close contact with mountain fauna

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Spring in Valcamonica

4 ideas to enjoy the most sparkling season of the year in Val Camonica.

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Montorfano oasis

Here is a forest reborn thanks to WWF: the Oasis of Montorfano, in the Municipality of Melegnano.

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Markets in bloom, in May in Lombardy

A guide to the most beautiful and interesting events with flowers and plants in Lombardy, including markets, exhibitions, workshops, courses and competitions.

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In search of the king of mushrooms

Mushroom hunting in Lombardy. Three foolproof destinations for gathering the most delicious porcini mushrooms: Valtellina, Val Brembana, and Val d'Intelvi

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Where to do Horseback Riding in Lombardy

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Val Trompia, where nature and ancient mines await visitors

Be ready for a great vacation in Val Trompia to discover natural treasures amidst huts and trails winding down the forest in Zone and reaching up to mounts Guglielmo and Maniva.

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9 places surrounded by nature

If you want to spend a day in contact with nature, we recommend these really special destinations.

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Shades of fall - excursions to discover the foliage

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Boat trips on Lombardy's rivers

The waterways of Lombardy are perfect to discover the unspoilt green heart of the region

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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

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Il caloggio

Visit the WWF Oasis Il Caloggio in the town of Bollate and you will be amazed by the rich and rare biodiversity present.

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Monumental trees in Lombardy: 12 incredible specimens

Among the scenic and cultural riches of Lombardy, one can discover outstanding green monuments.

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