The best cycling routes in Varese

Varese offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 1,100 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including over 250 easy routes, nearly 500 moderate routes, and more than 400 challenging trails.

Yes, Varese has many easy routes perfect for beginners and families. The region is known for its generally flat cycle paths, especially around the lakes. A great option is the Tour of the Water Lilies around Lake Comabbio − loop tour, which is 8.4 miles (13.5 km) long and takes about 49 minutes to complete, offering tranquil landscapes.

For those seeking a challenge, Varese offers routes with significant elevation gain, particularly in the pre-Alpine foothills. The Valganna, Lake Lugano, and Alpe Tedesco Loop is a difficult route covering 44.7 km with over 800 meters of elevation gain. The Campo dei Fiori Regional Park also provides diverse trails and peaks for experienced cyclists.

Varese is famous for its picturesque lakes and offers numerous circular routes. The Girolago di Varese from Ternate − loop tour is a popular 33.2 km moderate route encircling Lake Varese. Another excellent choice is the Tour of the Water Lilies around Lake Comabbio − loop tour, which is an easy 13.5 km loop.

Varese's routes are rich in natural beauty and historical sites. Along the Lake Varese cycle path, you can find the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Lago in Azzate and the 18th-century ice houses of Cazzago Brabbia. The Isolino Virginia, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also accessible. For waterfalls, consider routes near Cascata della Froda or the Valganna Waterfalls. The Campo dei Fiori Regional Park offers panoramic views of four lakes and the Alps.

Many routes in Varese combine natural beauty with cultural heritage. The Valle Olona cycle path follows a former railway track, leading through green environments and historical sites like the UNESCO heritage site Monastery of Torba and the Collegiata di Castiglione Olona. You can also cycle towards the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sacro Monte di Varese, a religious path with fourteen chapels.

The best time for touring cycling in Varese is generally from spring to early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the lush greenery and lake views are at their most vibrant. Summer offers warm temperatures ideal for lakeside rides, while spring and autumn provide cooler conditions perfect for more strenuous climbs in areas like Campo dei Fiori.

Many of Varese's cycle paths, particularly the flat lakeside routes and those through natural parks like Parco del Ticino, are suitable for cycling with dogs, provided they are well-behaved and kept on a leash. Always ensure your dog is comfortable with the distance and terrain, and carry enough water for both of you. Some specific routes might have restrictions, so it's always good to check local signage.

Varese's cycling routes are generally well-connected by public transport. The region has a good network of trains and buses that can take you to starting points near the lakes or other popular cycling areas. For instance, many routes around Lake Varese and Lake Comabbio are easily reachable from Varese city center or other towns with train stations. It's advisable to check specific train or bus lines for bicycle transport policies.

Yes, parking is typically available near the popular cycling routes, especially around the major lakes. Towns like Ternate, Gavirate, and Azzate around Lake Varese, and towns around Lake Comabbio, often have designated parking areas close to the cycle paths. For routes in regional parks like Campo dei Fiori, specific parking lots are usually provided at trailheads.

The touring cycling routes in Varese are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 5,200 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning lake views, the well-maintained cycle paths, and the diverse landscapes that offer options for all skill levels, from leisurely spins to challenging climbs.

Yes, Varese is known for its network of lakes, and several routes connect them. The Cycling routes between the Lakes of Varese, Monate and Comabbio is a moderate 51 km route that allows you to explore the tranquil landscapes of multiple lakes. The

Absolutely. While Varese is known for its flat lakeside paths, the pre-Alpine foothills offer excellent opportunities for strenuous rides with significant elevation gain. The Campo dei Fiori Regional Park, with its peaks like Monte Campo dei Fiori, provides challenging climbs and rewarding panoramic views. The Lake Varese Cycle Path, when extended to 45 km, also includes over 450 meters of ascent, making it a difficult option.