Nestled between the Prealps and a constellation of shimmering lakes, the province of Varese is a small paradise for cycling enthusiasts. Here, where nature meets history and culture, every route transforms into an immersive experience, catering to cyclists of all levels.
The Waterways
Numerous waterways flow through the province of Varese, accompanied by stunning cycling paths that connect the lakes and valleys, winding through the wooded trails of its parks.
The area offers a variety of routes suitable for every cycling style, making it an ideal destination for those seeking either a sporty adventure or a relaxing ride.
7 lakes, 4 UNESCO sites, and 3 Regional Parks make the province of Varese a truly unique place, where you can seamlessly transition from the plains to the hills, enjoying breathtaking views stretching from the Alps to the Apennines and even to major cities.
Culture and Territory
But #VareseDoYouBike is more than just a network of cycling routes; it’s a destination that celebrates the land and the cycling culture, promoting events, gatherings, and initiatives dedicated to enthusiasts.
How to Get There
Reaching Varese is easy thanks to its central location between Lombardy, Piedmont, and Switzerland.
You can get there not only via convenient roads but also by train, plane, and ferries that connect the lake shores. All these options are bike-friendly and easily accessible.
Services
80 “Official Points” designed for cyclists, including accommodations, bike repair shops, specialized guides, and refreshment stops, help make every ride an authentic experience.
GRAVEL RIDING IN THE LAND OF LAKES: FROM CASTLE TO HERMITAGE
With #varesedoyoubike, we invite you to explore the best cycling routes in the area of the seven major Prealpine lakes. From the shores of Lake Maggiore to dirt trails and untouched forests, passing through historic villages of great cultural value, prestigious villas, and mansions, every day is a new discovery.
One example is the itinerary “From Castle to Hermitage,” which winds along Lake Maggiore and encapsulates all these elements within the so-called “Costa Fiorita” – the greenest and most natural part of the area, entirely accessible by bicycle through flat and hilly routes suitable for all levels.
Along the way, you can discover remarkable natural sites such as oases, peat bogs, and glacial erratic boulders, as well as incredible historical landmarks like the Rocca di Angera, guarding the southern part of Lake Maggiore, and the Hermitage of Santa Caterina, perched on the cliffs of Leggiuno.
The coastline offers numerous beaches accessible by bike, along with several cycling paths connecting to the rest of the province. Besides Lake Maggiore, the area includes Lake Comabbio, which features a stunning 12 km cycling path encircling its entire perimeter, and Lake Monate. The latter is not only significant for its ancient stilt-house remains but also for the purity of its waters, among the clearest and cleanest of all Italian lakes. The breathtaking Alpine scenery makes this a place you will never forget.
In this land, where cycling is more than just a means of transport, pedaling becomes a way to connect with the history, nature, and traditions of the territory.
Varese is in the saddle – #Do You Bike?
