Best lakes around Marnate are found in the Province of Varese, Lombardy, an area rich with diverse natural landscapes. While Marnate itself does not feature large lakes, it serves as a gateway to several prominent bodies of water. These lakes offer various recreational opportunities and scenic beauty, characteristic of northern Italy's pre-alpine environment. The region provides a variety of lakes to see and explore, from tranquil wetlands to large pre-alpine bodies of water.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
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Always beautiful🌈 to pedal🚴in the greenery of the Oasis Parades🌳
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Very nice, I will definitely do it in the next few days,
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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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Look at the hole! Let's hope they restore everything soon
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Leaving the Villoresi canal and heading towards Legnano, you pass close to this lake area.
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Large plantation of strobi pines (Pinus strobus) owned by the Proverbio carpentry shop, based in the Saronnese area. The plantation was built in the 1950s and 1960s by the Vita-Mayer paper mill in Cairate, whose owners lived in the nearby Abbiate. Following the bankruptcy of that industry in 1977, the plantation was taken over by the current owners. After more than sixty years, this artificial forest is still immediately distinguishable by the alignment of the strobi rows and their dominance over the other tree species thanks to the conspicuous shading produced by the foliage, a factor that determines the almost total absence of undergrowth.
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Foppa is a wetland near the Olona river that flooded naturally. Here the water that irrigated the meadows once accumulated. Today the Foppa is fed with river water. Foppa, the nearby meadows and woods are ideal habitats for fauna. Since 2009 the municipality of San Vittore Olona in collaboration with the Olona Viva association, the Olona River Consortium and the Parco dei Mulini has restored the wetland area from "La Foppa". Foppa is fed with water from the Olona river through the Bellona canal. Today this body of water and the surrounding green areas, a forest and a meadow are home to a rich biodiversity of fauna and flora. In this area LIPU has spotted 90 different species of birds. A small wetland area like Foppa is of fundamental importance for migratory species that travel thousands of kilometers twice a year to return to breed or to winter; and sometimes they stop to feed in this very place. Not just birds. At Foppa there are also fish and other animals that feed on the eggs and larvae of aquatic insects; that's why there are so few mosquitoes!
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Large plantation of strobi pines (Pinus strobus) owned by the Proverbio carpentry, More than sixty years later, this artificial forest is still immediately distinguishable due to the alignment of strobe rows and their over-dominating other tree species thanks to the conspicuous shading produced by the foliage, a factor that determines the almost total absence of undergrowth.
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While Marnate itself doesn't have large lakes, it's a gateway to several prominent ones. For cycling, Castello Park offers a green space with a small lake, and the nearby Lake Varese is known for its scenic cycling path. For a tranquil setting, Herons Park Pond, part of Parco degli Aironi, is great for leisurely strolls. Lake Monate is ideal for swimming and water sports due to its clean waters.
Yes, several lakes and natural areas near Marnate are suitable for families. Castello Park is a forest area with a small lake, ponds, ducks, and numerous squirrels, making it a fun spot for children. Herons Park Pond also features a picnic area and diverse environments for exploration. Additionally, La Foppa Wetland (San Vittore Olona) is home to many animal species, offering an educational experience for all ages.
The lakes near Marnate offer a variety of natural features. You can find wetlands rich in biodiversity like La Foppa Wetland (San Vittore Olona), which is home to many bird and animal species. Herons Park Pond, a recovered quarry, is part of a larger park with dense woods and diverse environments. Lake Maggiore and Lake Lugano, while further afield, boast stunning pre-alpine landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque views of surrounding mountains.
Yes, the region around Marnate offers various hiking opportunities. While the immediate vicinity features more gentle walks around places like Parco Rile-Tenore-Olona, you can find numerous hiking trails in the broader area. For more options, explore the Hiking around Marnate guide, which includes routes like the Gorla Minor Loop and trails in the Olona Valley.
Lake Monate is particularly renowned for its cleanliness, making it an excellent choice for swimming. It features several public and private beaches where visitors can enjoy the water. Lake Lugano also offers opportunities for swimming and various water sports due to its crystal-clear waters.
Absolutely. Lake Varese is famous for its well-maintained scenic cycling path that encircles the entire lake. Lake Comabbio also offers beautiful views and is popular for cycling routes. Additionally, the Old railway tracks and pond at Parco Rile-Tenore-Olona provide a pleasant cycle road. For more cycling routes, check out the MTB Trails around Marnate guide.
Lake Maggiore is rich in historical charm, featuring grand hotels, elegant villas, and botanical gardens, especially on its famous Borromean Islands (Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori). The town of Stresa on Lake Maggiore is a popular base for exploring these sites. Closer to Marnate, Castello Park is situated next to the Legnano castle, offering a blend of nature and history.
While not entirely hidden, Paradés Oasis is a beautiful spot near the Villoresi canal, known for its biodiversity of flora and fauna, offering a peaceful escape. La Foppa Wetland (San Vittore Olona), an oxbow lake, is another unique natural area that provides a quiet environment for observing wildlife.
The best time to visit the lakes near Marnate generally depends on your preferred activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with beautiful foliage in autumn. Summer is ideal for swimming and water sports, especially at lakes like Monate. The region's lakes provide scenic beauty year-round, but some facilities or activities might be seasonal.
Yes, Lake Monate is a favored spot for fishing. It's known for an abundance of whitefish for professional fishing, and pike and black bass for sports fishing. This makes it an excellent destination for anglers looking to enjoy a peaceful day by the water.
Visitors appreciate the diverse recreational opportunities and scenic beauty. Many enjoy the well-maintained cycling paths, the clean waters for swimming, and the tranquil natural environments. The presence of wildlife, such as ducks and squirrels at Castello Park, and the rich biodiversity at La Foppa Wetland, are also frequently highlighted. The blend of nature, history, and outdoor activities makes the region appealing.


Still not found your perfect lake around Marnate? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.