Can you actually swim in Lake Varese?
Swimming in Lake Varese has been complicated, with long-term bans in the past due to pollution. However, the water quality has improved significantly. As of recent updates, swimming is officially permitted in designated areas, such as the Lido della Schiranna in Varese city. However, other areas like Gavirate still have swimming bans, not because of water quality, but due to issues like high water levels making the shore inaccessible. It's essential to always check the latest local ordinances (balneabilità) before swimming, as conditions can change.
Is Varese a good destination for a family beach holiday?
Varese is better described as a nature and culture destination with lakeside relaxation opportunities, rather than a traditional beach holiday spot. While there are lidos and grassy areas by the lakes, it's not a classic 'fly and flop' beach destination. It's ideal for active families who enjoy cycling, walking, and exploring nearby towns and mountains, with the lidos serving as a great way to cool off and relax. For a more conventional beach experience, many families travel to the larger beaches on nearby Lake Maggiore.
Are the beaches on Lake Varese free or do you have to pay?
Most of the popular and well-maintained swimming spots on Lake Varese and surrounding lakes are 'lidos,' which are managed beach clubs. These typically require an entrance fee, for which you get access to amenities like sunbeds, umbrellas, toilets, and cafes. The Lido della Schiranna is a primary example. While there are some free-access grassy or pebbly areas along the lake, especially along the 28km cycling path, the most comfortable spots for a day of sunbathing and swimming are usually the paid lidos.
What are the beaches like? Are they sandy?
The 'beaches' around Lake Varese are generally not sandy. Most are either grassy lawns that lead to the water's edge, like at Lido della Schiranna, or are made of pebbles. This is typical for pre-alpine lakes in the region. Visitors should expect well-kept grassy areas at the main lidos, perfect for sunbathing, and pebble shorelines in more natural, free-access spots.
Are there any hotels with a private beach in the Varese area?
While Varese city itself is not directly on the lake, the surrounding province, particularly on the shores of Lake Maggiore and Lake Lugano, has several hotels that offer private beach access. These are often premium properties. For example, towns like Luino and Porto Ceresio have hotels and resorts with their own private lidos or direct lake access. Searching on accommodation booking sites for properties with a 'private beach' is the best way to find them.
Is it better to go to the beaches on Lake Varese or Lake Maggiore?
The choice depends on your preference. Lake Varese's main beach, Lido della Schiranna, is very convenient if you are staying in Varese city and is great for a relaxed day, often combined with a walk or cycle around the lake. Lake Maggiore, being much larger, offers a wider variety of beaches, from bustling lidos in towns like Luino and Laveno-Mombello to quieter, free pebble beaches. Maggiore generally has more options, clearer water for swimming, and a more developed tourist infrastructure with boat trips and grander scenery. If beaches are your top priority, a short drive to Lake Maggiore is often recommended.
How do you get to the beaches from Varese city centre?
The main beach, Lido della Schiranna, is located a few kilometers from Varese city center. It is easily reachable by car, with parking available. It is also a popular destination via bicycle, as it's the official start of the 28km cycle and pedestrian path that circles the entire lake. Public transport options are also available but may be less direct. For beaches on other nearby lakes like Monate or Maggiore, a car is the most convenient mode of transport.
What's the best time of year to visit the beaches in Varese?
The best time to enjoy the lidos and lakeside areas in Varese is during the summer months, from June to early September. This is when the weather is warmest, all the lidos and their facilities (cafes, sunbed rentals) are fully operational, and the water is most pleasant for a swim. Spring and autumn are beautiful for walking or cycling the path around the lake, but it may be too cool for swimming and beach facilities may be closed.
Besides the main lido in Varese, are there other quieter local beaches?
Yes, besides the main Lido della Schiranna, there are smaller, often quieter spots around Lake Varese and on nearby lakes. On Lake Varese, the shores near towns like Gavirate and Bodio Lomnago offer pleasant green areas. For a truly tranquil swimming experience, many locals and visitors head to Lake Monate, which is renowned for being one of the cleanest lakes in Italy and has several small, charming beaches and lidos, such as those in the towns of Osmate and Cadrezzate.
Are dogs allowed on the beaches in Varese?
Rules for dogs vary by location. On Lake Varese itself, dogs are generally allowed on the 28km cycling and walking path that surrounds it. However, at the managed lidos like Schiranna, access to the main sunbathing and swimming areas is typically restricted. For swimming, you may have more luck on the shores of Lake Maggiore, where towns like Maccagno and Porto Valtravaglia have designated dog-friendly beach areas. It is always best to check the specific rules for each beach or lido beforehand.
