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Near Milan there are wonderful lakes in which to organize a outing. They are places surrounded by greenery, where crystal clear water enchants visitors. A few hours by car allow you to reach these oases of peace, to spend a different day away from the hustle and bustle. We have selected 11 lakes to visit near Milan.
Find out what you like depending on the activities and excursions to do nearby. Some lakes give some experiences truly unique.
Lake Idro
The lake Idro is a pristine jewel of beauty located 154 km from Milan. The uniqueness of this lake lies precisely in its height: 368 m above sea level. In fact, it is considered the highest lake in Lombardy. Lake Idro is of glacial origin and is located in the province of Brescia, on the border with Trentino.
Blue Lake
The Blue Lake, also called Motta Lake, is located at an elevation of 1,853 meters in Alpe Motta Alta (Madesimo). The poet Giosuè Carducci also dedicated a poem to the lake in 1888. Carducci, in fact, loved to walk in the pine forests and then to the lake. And during his summer vacation in Spluga Valley, he composed many poems. The lake is a spectacle of nature.
Lake Ghirla
In the province of Varese we find Lake Ghirla, about an hour and a quarter’s drive from Milan. Thus, a destination to consider for a different weekend away from the city. The lake allows you to relax at Trelago (left side), where there are several facilities, or picnic on the meadows on the opposite side. You will also find a barbecue area, a campground, and horses.
Lake Como
the Lake Como, or Lario, is a tourist destination celebrated for its beautiful landscape at the foothills of the Alps. Its proximity to Milan makes it easy to reach even for a short trip out of town. In addition, it is the third largest lake in Italy. And the charming villages that surround it-such as Bellagio, Varenna, Tremezzo and Menaggio-make the visit even more enjoyable. The Lario is located about 80 kilometers from Milan between the provinces of Como and Lecco.
Lake Varese
At the foot of the Varese foothills of the Alps lies Lake Varese: 10th Italian lake by size. It is part of the seven lakes of Varese Province. The lake bike path allows people to visit this beautiful place: 28 km surrounded by nature. Also, near Cazzago Brabbia, you can see the famous ghiacciaie, buildings similar to the trulli of Alberobello. The giazzér (in dialect) are built entirely of stone.
Lake Mezzola
The territory of the Pian di Spagna – Lago di Mezzola Nature Reserve is recognized as a Site of Community Importance (Sic) and is part of the European Ecological Network “Natura 2000.” We are talking about places characterized by the presence of both animal and plant habitats and species. In 2016, the lake was classified as not swimmable, but 2020 sampling yielded excellent results for bathing at two particular locations.
In addition, the lake is also chosen as a destination by hiking enthusiasts. In fact, there are several trails in the area to try for a nice nature walk.
Lake Segrino
At 50 km from Milan we find the small and charming Lake Segrino. Stendhal likened it to an “emerald gem” for its waters. In fact, the lake is considered among the cleanest in Europe. It is the ideal destination for those who feel like relaxing in nature, the lido Aquilegia allows you to rent canoes and pedal boats or simply sunbathe on a sunbed. You can also take a nice walk around the lake, it is about 5 km.
Lake Segrino is located in the province of Como, situated between the towns of Canzo, Longone al Segrino and Eupilio.
Lake Maggiore
If we have to talk about lakes near Milan, Lake Maggiore, the largest lake in Italy, deserves mention. It bathes the Canton of Ticino in Switzerland and the provinces of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola and Novara, in Piedmont, and Varese, in Lombardy. A lake with spectacular natural scenery, it boasts some truly beautiful sites. Between Isola Bella and the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso, Lake Maggiore hides hidden jewels of rare beauty. A short hour and a half drive from Milan, it is another magnificent place to go for a day trip or for a weekend of beauty and nature.
Lake Garda
Another spectacle of nature is Lake Garda. Italy’s largest lake, it bathes Lombardy, Veneto and Trentino Alto-Adige. The lake is ideal for a wellness trip not too far away. Within a couple of hours or so you arrive. The surroundings are very pretty. Between Sirmione, Desenzano, Peschiera or Lazise and many others, there is to lose one’s head from the beauty. Breathtaking views, picturesque medieval villages and spectacular nature. Lake Garda will give you unique moments. Visit the Caves of Catullus or D’Annunzio’s home, the Vittoriale. Also pass through Valeggio sul Mincio whose tortellini are famous and delicious. Go to the Remelli Pasta Factory!!! Also worth mentioning is Limone sul Garda to find yourself catapulted into another world
Lake Orta
Another magnificent place to include among the lakes near Milan to go to is Lake Orta, about an hour and a half’s drive from Milan. In addition to the beauty of the place, the lake is home to the picturesque Island of San Giulio located 400 meters from the shore and accessible by ferry. There is a town on the island that is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy with its small houses overlooking the lake and the natural spectacle all around. Well worth a weekend visit!
Lake Iseo
Another amazing place is Lake Iseo about 90km from Milan. Perfect for a field trip. Located at the bottom of the Camonica Valley, its northern part is part of the UNESCO heritage for the richness of its ecosystem. For an immersion in nature and to cleanse the eyes and soul from chaos, Lake Iseo is perfect. Be sure to visit Montisola, from which there is a breathtaking view.
Lake Lugano
Lakes near Milan also include Lake Lugano, otherwise known as Ceresio, is a pre-alpine lake in the Italian geographical region, branching along the Italian-Swiss border. An hour and a half drive and you reach this place dotted with enchanting, green, picturesque and worthwhile locations for a few hours in nature immersed in beauty. If you take a Lake Lugano tour, stop in Morcote, a delightful lake-view village that is among the most beautiful villages in Switzerland, by the way. Right here is the famous and beautiful Scherrer Park, also named Garden of Wonders, a natural park that hides incredible things within it. Reproductions of Greek temples, Arabian buildings, Indian mansions painted in the Mughal style, and many other sights to see. The view from here is superb.