The province of Varese, nestled between the Alps and the gentle backdrop of the foothills of the Alps, is a true scenic jewel that invites you to explore the beauty of its territory through active and sustainable tourism. The silhouettes of the Cottian Alps, Maritime Alps, Rhaetian Alps, and Pre-Alps contour a heath dotted here and there with lakes, waterfalls, nature areas such as the Campo dei Fiori Regional Park, and mountains such as Sacro Monte di Varese and Sasso del Ferro. Those who reach the Varesotto region to spend a few days in the open air, including walks or bicycle rides, have many trails at their disposal, with the possibility of discovering bucolic corners of rare beauty.
Autumn in the Campo dei Fiori Park – Ph. Depositphotos
Paths of beauty in the Campo dei Fiori Park
Campo dei Fiori Regional Park is a lush protected area between Mount Martica and Mount Campo dei Fiori, two peaks separated by the beautiful Rasa Valley. The best way to discover the beauty of the park is on foot, thanks to the presence of no less than 21 trails, excellently marked, that allow hikers to reach such gems as the Pesegh waterfall or the picturesque Motta d’Oro Pond.
Cascata del Pesegh – Ph. DepositphotosÂ
The “Campo dei Fiori 360°” trail is a not-to-be-missed experience that connects some of the park’s most striking viewpoints: the Belvedere, the Schiapparelli Astronomical Observatory and the Heliport Square, where the old Cannon, a witness to local history of the Great War and one of the prominent sites of the Cadorna Line in the province of Varese, is located. Among the most spectacular vantage points are also the Three Crosses and Mount Chiusarella, both with breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Tramonto Forcora – Ph. Marco Caniato/flickr
Border walks in Forcora and Valganna
Another extraordinary scenery can be appreciated from the Forcora Pass, which reaches 1179 meters high on the Swiss border above the Luinese valleys. One reaches the pass by following trail 110A, which passes by the small Forcora Church. From the summit there are views of the Varese Pre-Alps, the Ticino Alps, the Cross of Mount Cadrigna, Lake Maggiore and Lake Delio. In the municipality of Cadegliano Viconago is the charming Argentera Park, where an enchanting atmosphere makes nature walks particularly pleasant, especially for those who love to ride bicycles, thanks to the presence of a bike path.
Here one pedals in the shade of the foliage of centuries-old trees, along streams and over small wooden bridges, all the way to the railway bridge of the historic Varese-Ponte Tresa line. However, what really makes Argentera Park fascinating are the four mills built between the 18th and 19th centuries for the production of nut, corn and chestnut flours: their frescoes are astonishingly beautiful and contrast beautifully with the surrounding greenery.
Parco dell’Argentera – Ph. Gabriele Bistoletti/flickr
Brabbia swamp: a paradise for birdwatching
For birdwatchers, a must-see is the Brabbia Swamp, once joined by the lakes of Varese, Biandronno and Comabbio. This Lipu-managed reserve is home to extraordinary biodiversity, with hundreds of species of birds, both migratory and resident, hiding among reeds, willow groves, black alder thickets and ponds. From the floating hut or the three marsh observation points, it is possible to spot grey and red herons, ospreys and marsh harriers, woodpeckers, garganeys and numerous passerines.
Palude Brabbia – Ph. Giovanni Simioli/flickr
Varese by bike
Varese is undoubtedly a wonderful city on a human scale, ideal for those who love to explore by bicycle, immersed in its historical and artistic beauty. But it is not only the city that enchants: the entire province proves to be a true paradise for cycling enthusiasts, thanks to no less than 45 itineraries that wind through Varese and its municipalities, embracing breathtaking landscapes between the Ticino River and the Varese Pre-Alps.
With the “#Varese DoYouBike” project, bicycle tourists can make use of certified guides, expert connoisseurs of the area ready to lead them to discover fascinating places, narrating their history, culture and nature. Prominent among the bicycle and pedestrian routes the province offers is the picturesque ride around Lake Varese, which starts from the Schiranna and offers splendid views, including that of Isolino Virginia, a UNESCO pile-dwelling site.
Also, reaching the Lake Comabbio bike path from Biandronno, one can detour to the Brabbia Swamp, habitat of the majestic marsh harrier and numerous other species, or continue on the Lake Monate bike path.
Lago di Comabbio – Ph. Fausto Ferioli/flickr
But the options do not end there! For those looking for a more nature-immersed experience, the Valganna bicycle path winds through enchanting forests and skirts the crystal-clear waters of lakes Ganna and Ghirla, until it reaches Lake Ceresio. A fascinating alternative is the Valle Olona bicycle path, which connects Castiglione Olona to Castellanza, passing through the archaeological park of Castelseprio and the impressive Monastery of Torba. And for the more adventurous there is the ultimate challenge: conquering the summit of the delightful Piccolo Stelvio, tackling the five hairpin bends that offer breathtaking views.
Area Archeologica di Castelseprio – Ph. Depositphotos
Ready to put your foot on the pedal and discover all that Varese has to offer?
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