At the crossroads of Varese, Milan, Lake Maggiore, the Valganna itself, and nearby Switzerland, this area offers an abundance of tourist destinations and experiences to enjoy. The suggestions listed below are just a small sample of what there is to discover, visit, experience, and savor in the region. Many more can be found in the travel guide I’ve prepared for you, which I’ll be happy to share once your booking is confirmed.
The Sacromonte of Varese
It is one of the nine pre-Alpine Sacred Mountains recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It consists of fourteen chapels leading up to the Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Monte, a pilgrimage site since the Middle Ages, which serves as the fifteenth chapel.
It represents an important testimony to the artistic culture that developed in the Duchy of Milan.
Ponte Tresa and The Market.
Ponte Tresa is a small town on Lake Lugano (or Lake Ceresio), bordering its Swiss namesake, separated by the Tresa River.
One of its main attractions is the market, held on the Italian side, offering all kinds of goods. There are numerous stalls with local food products, as well as clothing, crafts, and much more.
A visit to the market, a stroll through the village, and lunch will make this outing a wonderful day. It’s best to arrive early to find parking!
Saturday 08:00 - 16:00
Lake Maggiore
Less known than Lake Garda but equally stunning, Lake Maggiore would take weeks to explore in detail due to its vast territory. Below, I’ve listed several one-day activities that allow you to experience its beauty, charm, and character. You won’t regret it!
1 - Boat tour of the lake, with stops at some of the most picturesque towns on both shores.
2 - Boat trip to the Borromean Islands, exploring their stunning gardens and historic palaces.
3 - Visit Laveno, perhaps taking the funicular to the top of Monte Sasso del Ferro, where you’ll find an excellent restaurant. You can also visit Santa Caterina del Sasso, a chapel built on the rock in the 12th century.
4 - Visit Verbania on the opposite shore, including a tour of the botanical garden at Villa Taranto.
La Val Verzzasca. Ticino.
Considered the green heart of Ticino, the Verzasca Valley is an idyllic valley nestled in a stunning mountain landscape.
The heart of the valley is the lush green Verzasca River, with its deep, smooth gorges and pools inviting for summer bathing. Beyond diving, the valley is highly appreciated for its so many others activities: hiking, cycling, climbing, or simply connecting with this powerful yet gentle and revitalizing nature.
Villa e collezione Panza. Varese.
An 18th-century villa that opens its windows onto a magnificent Italian-style garden and houses one of the world’s most renowned contemporary art collections, as well as exhibitions of international acclaim. For visits, see:
Centro storico di Castiglione Olona. Varese
Castiglione is a place where art, faith, culture, and centuries of tradition come together, revealing hidden treasures at every turn. The town is rich in remarkable architectural and cultural landmarks, with the Collegiate complex standing out among them. Don’t miss the Baptistery, where you can marvel at the stunning 15th-century frescoes by Masolino da Panicale.
Comune di Castiglion Olona
The journey of the sun and the journey of the moon. Agra.
Are two hiking trails that offer extraordinary views of Lake Maggiore and are considered among the most beautiful routes in the entire province of Varese.
These are two interconnected paths, totaling 5 km with an elevation gain of 160 m, forming a fantastic circular itinerary suitable for everyone, including families with children.
Il lago di Varese e la pista ciclopedonale.
Il lago di Varese è situato ai piedi delle prealpi varesine. Attorno al lago è presente la Pista ciclopedonale del lago di Varese. La lunghezza totale della pista è di 28 km e 100 m. Il dislivello massimo è di 220 m. In alcuni tratti vengono utilizzate strade comunali secondarie e quindi aperte al traffico, ma per la maggior parte sono percorsi ciclabili riservati.
Una pista ciclabile adatta a tutti, quasi completamente pianeggiante, suggestiva e varia. Il percorso alterna vedute di prati e boschi, acqua e montagne.
