Lago di Como
Lago di Iseo
Its Mediterranean climate means it has always been a tourist destination and holiday choice - the ruins of the Roman villas are a must-visit - and has allowed its long-standing tradition of citrus fruit growing, a story just waiting to be discovered. On the borders of three regions - Lombardy, Trentino Alto Adige and Veneto - the "Benaco", the lake's ancient Latin name, is dotted with fortifications from different eras, historic remains of great interest.
Como, Cernobbio, Tremezzo, and Menaggio on the one side, Lecco, Varenna on the other. And, on the promontory that divides the lake to create its two branches and characteristic upside-down Y shape, Bellagio. The banks of the lake offer unforgettable days spent visiting its villas, promenades, parks and gardens, and places made famous by literature, with the Promessi Sposi ("The Betrothed") by Alessandro Manzoni in top place and already a favourite with the descendants of the European bourgeoisie in the nineteenth century.
A land of vineyards that produce the world-popular Franciacorta wines, but also a stage for curious natural phenomena, with edelweiss on the plains and pyramids of earth, the lake offers hugely exciting experiences, like a visit to the rock engravings in Valle Camonica, which preserves ancient forms of expression loaded with insight into prehistoric life. Monte Isola stands in the middle of the lake, perfect for walking or cycling around.
Lago Maggiore
Lago di Varese
Lago di Lugano
Lago d’Idro
The banks of this lake are in Piedmont to the west, Ticino to the north and Lombardy to the east. Trips and holidays on its eastern banks are all about relaxing and rediscovering nature. It offers amazing views, both on the lakeside and also from the surrounding high points. From erratic masses left by glaciation to streams that form waterfalls and grottoes, through to ringed towns on the coast, all with different stories to tell.
Just a stone’s throw from the city of the same name, framed by the mountains and their spectacular views, it can easily be explored by bike: the cycle path that runs right around the lake is about 27 kilometres long and feasible even for children. If you prefer to walk, the Campo di Fiori regional park is perfect, with its many paths and the Sacro Monte (UNESCO world heritage site). Varese will charm you with its villas and gardens.
Located in two countries - Switzerland and Italy and in two provinces - Varese and Como - this lake has protected its treasures for millions of years. Deep underneath Monte San Giorgio there are thousands of fossils (UNESO world heritage site), to be admired there or in the museum in Besano. Whereas Monte Orsa preserves the trenches of the Cadorna Line, defence works from World War One. Everywhere you look the backdrop is breath-taking.
Set into the frame of the pre-Alps and the Brescia Piccole Dolomiti mountains, this lake is a paradise for lovers of peace, quiet and sport. Walks in the woods or bike trips can be alternated with days spent relaxing on the beach or on the waters of the lake. Windsurfing is also possible thanks to the Ander, the wind that blows constantly, especially in the afternoon. One must-visit place is the Rocca d’Anfo, which covers an entire mountain.
Lombardy’s lakes are a wealth of history and can be discovered either on a trip around their banks or with a journey into the surrounding areas. They offer amazing experiences to suit all tastes, to be savoured slowly, off the beaten track. There are plenty of ideas and suggestions, starting points for trips that take you into the beauty of still unspoilt nature, and allow a close up look at masterpieces of art and architecture or simply give you a chance to really relax.
Lakes Experience
History, culture, sport, food and wine specialities… and, above all, wonderful scenery. A journey into discovery of the seven biggest lakes in Lombardy.
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LAKES EXPE RIENCE / Map
Photo credits Walter Capelli / Alberto Locatelli / Mauro Magliani / Laura Rabachin
Lago di Garda
Lakes Experience #inLombardia -------- Map