Best lakes around Cardano Al Campo, a town in the province of Varese, Lombardy, Italy, is situated within the natural area of the Parco naturale lombardo della Valle del Ticino. This region features various waterways and is known for its hydraulic engineering. It offers opportunities for outdoor activities and exploring historical sites related to water management. The area provides access to both natural and man-made water features.
Last updated: October 3, 2026
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The unique name "Panperduto" derives mainly from the local dialect and ancient stories related to river navigation before the construction of the dam. In the past, commercial barges carrying goods or stones often collided with the rapids and rocky riverbeds of this stretch of the river, ending up capsizing and losing their entire cargo. This meant the loss of the entire day's work and the earnings needed to buy food, hence the saying "we lost the bread" (hence Panperduto).
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La Diga del Panperduto (or rather, the Dighe del Panperduto) is one of Lombardy's most important and fascinating hydraulic junctions, located on the Ticino river in the municipality of Somma Lombardo, in the province of Varese. This monumental complex of hydraulic engineering dates back to the late 19th century (inaugurated in 1884) and mainly serves to divert the waters of the Ticino to feed two fundamental artificial canals: Villoresi Canal: used for irrigation purposes, guaranteeing water for over 100,000 hectares of agricultural land in the Po Valley. Industrial Canal: fundamental for the production of hydroelectric energy through various power plants in the area.
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The Pollini Marsh covers an area of just over 1.5 hectares. A drainage canal flows into it from a wetland further west, and the catchment area covers approximately 10 hectares. The water table undergoes significant seasonal fluctuations. Salix cinerea grows on the northwestern side of the marsh, while small colonies of Phragmites australis and Schoenoplectus lacustris emerge from the waters.
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Archaeological site in the municipality of Besnate, the so-called lagozza is a small but charming lake surrounded by a small swamp. This peat bog gave birth, in 1877, to an ancient pile-dwelling and from there a civilization was discovered, called precisely the Lagozza Civilization, which in all likelihood lived here about 5,000 years ago.
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nice place but always closed, ultimately well maintained
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The "Rile-Tenore-Olona" (RTO) is a Local Park of Supra-municipal Interest (PLIS) established in 2006 between eight founding municipalities and subsequently joined by four others in the province of Varese. Covering over 25 square kilometers, the park embraces valley floors, hillsides and plains, taking its name from the main waterways: Rile, Tenore and Olona. The management of the PLIS has been entrusted to the Pineta di Appiano Gentile e Tradate regional park since 2019, in line with the reorganization of the Lombardy protected area management system. Castiglione Olona assumes the role of Convention Head in the management of the PLIS.
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Lagozza in prehistoric times was a large swamp with shallow water. There is evidence of settlements dating back to the 3rd millennium BC.
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The Panperduto dam is located along the Ticino and represents one of the most important hydraulic junctions in Lombardy. Part of the river's waters are diverted and form the Villoresi canal, which has the purpose of irrigating the numerous fields in the area.
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The most popular water feature is the Panperduto Dam, a significant hydraulic junction offering panoramic views. Other highly appreciated spots include the Lagozza di Besnate Archaeological Site, known for its small lake and historical significance, and the Old railway tracks and pond at Parco Rile-Tenore-Olona, which offers a pleasant cycle path.
Yes, the area offers several cycling opportunities. The Panperduto Dam area features a very pleasant and safe cycle path. You can explore routes like the 'Via Lungo Canale Villoresi – Panperduto Dam loop' or the 'Lake Comabbio loop'. For more options, check out the Cycling around Cardano Al Campo guide.
You'll find various walking and running trails. The Parco Rile-Tenore-Olona offers trails alongside old train tracks, ideal for walks. For dedicated running routes, consider options like the 'Running loop from Cardano al Campo'. More detailed information can be found in the Running Trails around Cardano Al Campo guide.
Absolutely. Several locations are suitable for families, including the Panperduto Dam, which is categorized as family-friendly and offers scenic views. The Lagozza di Besnate Archaeological Site and the Old railway tracks and pond at Parco Rile-Tenore-Olona are also great for family outings, offering a mix of nature and history.
The region, part of the Parco naturale lombardo della Valle del Ticino, offers diverse natural landscapes. At Pollini Marsh, you can observe specific plant species like Salix cinerea and Phragmites australis. The Mikrohabitat Educational Pond is designed to showcase numerous local species in a small, contained environment.
Yes, the Lagozza di Besnate Archaeological Site is a significant historical location. It features a small lake and swamp where an ancient pile-dwelling was discovered, leading to the identification of the Lagozza Civilization, dating back approximately 5,000 years. The Panperduto Dam itself is also an important historical piece of hydraulic engineering.
Yes, the Old railway tracks and pond at Parco Rile-Tenore-Olona is specifically noted as dog-friendly, making it a good option for walks with your pet.
Yes, the Panperduto Dam area has a hostel nearby where you can enjoy panoramic views and even a granita. The Mikrohabitat Educational Pond also features a kiosk, providing a pleasant and equipped stopover.
The region is generally pleasant for outdoor activities, especially cycling and walking, during spring and autumn when temperatures are mild. Summer offers warmer weather suitable for enjoying the views and outdoor cafes, while winter walks can also be charming, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
The Panperduto Dam is a crucial hydraulic junction along the Ticino River. It plays a vital role in diverting water to form the Villoresi Canal, which irrigates numerous fields in Lombardy. Beyond its engineering importance, it offers stunning panoramic views and a pleasant cycle path.
While not widely known, the Pollini Marsh offers a quiet natural experience with its unique ecosystem and seasonal water fluctuations. Similarly, the Mikrohabitat Educational Pond is a small, carefully curated spot showcasing local species, perfect for a peaceful visit.


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