panorama verso Campo dei Fiori
1 / 10

Lake Varese Cycle Path

4.3
·175 reviews·Varese, Italy

A scenic 28km cycle path encircling Lake Varese, offering diverse landscapes and historical touches. Perfect for cycling and walking.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant temps, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
panorama verso Campo dei Fiori

Lake Varese Cycle Path

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant temps, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A scenic 28km cycle path encircling Lake Varese, offering diverse landscapes and historical touches. Perfect for cycling and walking.

4.3
(175 reviews)

"It's truly beautiful, enjoyable, the views and nature are stunning and change at every turn."

Vertical photo
TIP

Park Smartly

Schiranna Lido and Tigros parking lots are good starting points. Arrive early on weekends! :car:

Embrace the Loop

The full 28km loop is highly recommended for diverse scenery. Allow 6+ hours with stops. :bike:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Full Lake Loop

The Full Lake Loop

Entire perimeter of Lake Varese

A scenic 28km cycle path offering diverse views, from lakeside promenades to wooded trails.

Schiranna Lido

Schiranna Lido

Varese

A popular starting point with easy parking and beautiful lake access for your cycling adventure.

Gavirate Lakeside Charm

Gavirate Lakeside Charm

Gavirate

Discover charming spots with restaurants overlooking the water, perfect for a relaxing break.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Best Time to Cycle

Avoid midday heat in summer. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for cycling the entire 28km loop. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.

Navigating the Path

The path is mostly well-marked with brown signs, but some sections can be tricky. Consider downloading an offline map or using a cycling app to ensure you stay on track.

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter cycling experience
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🇮🇹 Continua questo progetto insensato a Cadrezzate con Osmate , il 94° comune che ho svaresato. Altra puntata di Svaresando, cercando di visitare ogni comune della provincia di Varese, la provincia in cui sono nato, cresciuto e in cui vivo. Osteria del Castelmagno (no adv), la chiesa, il Lago di Monate e il paragone con Taormina.  Svaresando è anche questo.  #varese #cadrezzate #osmate #cadrezzate...
@reveliozaifa
38K likes • 988.9K views

Park Smartly

Schiranna Lido and Tigros parking lots are good starting points. Arrive early on weekends! :car:

Embrace the Loop

The full 28km loop is highly recommended for diverse scenery. Allow 6+ hours with stops. :bike:

5 luoghi particolari da vedere sul Lago di Garda 🌊✨ 📍 Ciclopedonale di Limone – sospesa sul lago, perfetta a piedi o in bici
📍 Cascata del Varone (Tenno) – grotte e passerelle fino alla cascata
📍 Santuario della Madonna della Corona – incastonato nella roccia, vista pazzesca
📍 Bastione del Garda (Riva del Garda) – ascensore panoramico e ristorante con vista
📍 Castello di Arco – sentiero panoramico...
@occhiperdue
8.7K likes • 362K views
LIMONE SUL GARDA 🍋🚴🏼 - 🅿️ Parcheggio: via Lungolago G. Marconi 50 - 🥾/🚲Trekking: dal parcheggio alla fine della ciclopedonale + il ritorno, sono circa 7km (secondo me è più bella da fare a piedi) - 🍝 Dove mangiare: Ristorante Al Vecchio Fontec - #limonesulgarda #limonesulgarda🍋 #ciclopedonale #pistaciclabile #lagodigardaofficial #lagodigardadascoprire #borghipiùbelliditalia #borghipiubelliditalia ...
@michelaricchetti
6.6K likes • 268K views

Watch for Poles!

Be aware of wooden poles on curves, intended to separate cyclists but can be hazardous. :warning:

Enjoy Lakeside Dining

Gavirate offers lovely spots with lake views for a meal or coffee break. :coffee:

Info e percorso 👇🏻 Ha appena riaperto per la stagione 2025 la ciclopedonale più suggestiva del Lago di Garda! Una strada dalla bellezza che toglie il fiato per i panorami unici sul lago, ma anche ricca di storia, con le sue gallerie scavate nella roccia e vedette e risalenti alla grande guerra! L’hai già percorsa? 💬 Commenta con “info” il mio reel su ig, profilo “stfno” per ricevere subito: • L...
@stfno0
5.8K likes • 209.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Park Smartly

Schiranna Lido and Tigros parking lots are good starting points. Arrive early on weekends! :car:

Embrace the Loop

The full 28km loop is highly recommended for diverse scenery. Allow 6+ hours with stops. :bike:

Watch for Poles!

Be aware of wooden poles on curves, intended to separate cyclists but can be hazardous. :warning:

Enjoy Lakeside Dining

Gavirate offers lovely spots with lake views for a meal or coffee break. :coffee:

Signage is Mostly Good

Brown signs guide you, but have a map handy for tricky sections. :map:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(175 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Lake Varese Cycle Path is widely praised for its beautiful scenery, enjoyable atmosphere, and the rare presence of a dedicated cycle path in Italy. While some minor hazards and connectivity issues are noted, most visitors find it a highly rewarding experience for cycling, walking, and enjoying the lakeside charm.

"Top"

Mauro Favruzzo

"22/4/2025 I left from Schiranna "lido" I parked without problems, I left there at 11:06 and completed the 28 km tour of the lake at 17:00...5:54 minutes including stops of all types and reasons. Very beautiful and well signposted with brown signs. I recommend it very very pleasant and with wonderful corners 😍😍"

ele berny

"A very beautiful route, worth repeating.
We set off on foot from Buguggiate, coming from Como. We left the car at the Tigros parking lot and began the route on foot. We left at 8:30, with several stops, the village and the ice houses, arriving in Gavirate....
An enchanting and very beautiful place, with little restaurants overlooking the lake.... and a very relaxing atmosphere.... we ate....
Then around 12:30/1:00 we set off again.
From there on, the landscape changes a bit.
You walk and sometimes you can't see the lake...
You're in the woods surrounded by greenery...
Then you walk.... the road is next to you...
Then around 3:30 we arrived at the Tigros parking lot. I really enjoyed it....
I would gladly do it again.... about 35 km on foot. 😊"

Annamaria Guidetti

What People Like

Beautiful lake views
Dedicated cycle path
Relaxing atmosphere

What People Dislike

Hazardous poles
Limited lake views in sections
Poor connections to other lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The cycle path is accessible from various points around Lake Varese. Popular starting points with parking include Schiranna Lido in Varese and the Tigros parking lot in Buguggiate. You can reach these by car. Public transport options might be limited directly to the path, so driving or cycling to a starting point is often easiest. Reddit

Yes, parking is available at several points along the route, notably at Schiranna Lido and the Tigros parking lot. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up. Reddit

Yes, you can access the cycle path from Varese, particularly from the Schiranna Lido area. While Varese itself might not be the most scenic part of the route, it serves as a convenient entry point. Reddit

Currently, there isn't a good cycling connection to nearby Lake Monate or Lake Comabbio, which is a missed opportunity for integrated tourism. Reddit

Many cyclists recommend starting from Schiranna Lido in Varese for its convenient parking and direct access to the path. The full loop is approximately 28 km. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Lake Varese Cycle Path is a public route and does not require any tickets or admission fees. It's free to use for cycling and walking. Reddit

The cycle path is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's best enjoyed during daylight hours for safety and to appreciate the scenery. TikTok

There is no entrance fee to access or use the Lake Varese Cycle Path. It's a public amenity for everyone to enjoy. Reddit

Information on bike rentals directly at the path is limited, but it's worth checking local tourist information centers or bike shops in Varese or nearby towns for rental options. TikTok

The path is generally accessible to everyone, with most of it being flat or gently undulating. Some sections might have minor inclines or be adjacent to roads. Reddit

🎫 🚴 Onsite Experience

The full loop around Lake Varese is approximately 28 kilometers (about 17.4 miles). It's a substantial ride that can take several hours with stops. Reddit

Completing the 28 km loop can take anywhere from 3 to 6 hours, depending on your pace, the number of stops you make, and whether you're cycling or walking. Reddit

You'll experience a variety of landscapes, including lakeside promenades, wooded areas, and sections that run alongside roads. The views of the lake are often stunning. TikTokReddit

Some reviewers mention hazardous poles placed on curves and large STOP markings on the road that can be disruptive. It's important to stay alert. Reddit

For the most part, the path is well-marked with brown signs. However, some users have noted occasional difficulties in finding the route or signposted exits. Reddit+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are restaurants and cafes, particularly in towns like Gavirate, which offer lovely views of the lake. Some reviewers enjoyed stopping for a meal. Reddit

You'll find typical Italian trattorias and cafes offering local dishes. Options range from quick snacks to more substantial meals. Reddit

While not explicitly designated, the natural beauty of the path offers many opportunities for a picnic. Bringing your own food and drinks is a good idea. Reddit

Water refill stations are not commonly mentioned. It's recommended to carry enough water for your journey, especially during warmer months. TikTok

As with many Italian destinations, vegetarian options are usually available. Vegan options might require specific requests at restaurants. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The path offers numerous scenic spots, from panoramic lake views to charming lakeside towns and natural greenery. The changing landscapes provide great photo ops. Reddit

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and golden hues. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly beautiful over the lake. TikTok

Many sections offer stunning vistas. Towns like Gavirate provide picturesque lakeside scenes. Keep an eye out for clearings in the woods and open stretches along the shore. Reddit

The path has historical elements like old wartime galleries and lookouts, which can make for unique and dramatic photographs. TikTok

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens would be ideal to capture both wide landscapes and details. A smartphone with a good camera is also sufficient for most visitors. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Lake Varese Cycle Path is a fantastic option for families looking for an active outdoor day. The mostly flat terrain and dedicated path sections make it manageable for children, though the full 28km loop might be ambitious for very young ones. Consider cycling shorter segments or using a bike trailer. Reddit

Pack plenty of snacks and water, as amenities can be spaced out. Towns like Gavirate offer pleasant stops with lakeside views where families can rest and refuel. Reddit Keep an eye out for the historical elements like old wartime galleries, which can add an element of adventure and discovery for kids. TikTok

🚴 Cyclists Seeking Scenic Routes

For cyclists, the Lake Varese Cycle Path offers a unique Italian experience with its almost entirely dedicated path. The 28km loop provides a good workout with constantly changing scenery, from open lake vistas to shaded wooded areas. Reddit+1

While the path is generally well-marked, it's wise to carry a map or use a GPS device to navigate any trickier sections or potential diversions. Be mindful of the occasional hazardous poles and road markings mentioned by other cyclists. Reddit The path is a great way to explore the region at a leisurely pace, stopping in charming towns like Gavirate for a break. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkers and Hikers

The Lake Varese Cycle Path is also a beautiful route for walkers. The diverse landscapes and peaceful atmosphere make it ideal for a leisurely stroll. You can choose to walk the entire loop or opt for shorter sections, perhaps starting from Buguggiate and walking towards Gavirate. Reddit

Be aware that the path is shared with cyclists, so stay aware of your surroundings and keep to the side when necessary. The path offers a wonderful way to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of the lake. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Cycling the 28km Loop

The Lake Varese Cycle Path offers a comprehensive 28km loop around the lake, making it a substantial yet rewarding cycling or walking experience. Many visitors recommend completing the entire circuit to fully appreciate the diverse scenery. The path is generally well-maintained, with a mix of dedicated cycle lanes, lakeside promenades, and sections that run alongside quieter roads. Reddit

While the path is largely accessible, some users have noted a few quirks. These include potentially hazardous poles placed on curves and large STOP markings on the road that can disrupt the flow. Despite these minor issues, the majority of the route is well-signposted with brown markers, guiding you through charming towns and natural landscapes. Reddit

For the best experience, consider starting your journey from a convenient point like Schiranna Lido in Varese, which offers ample parking. Allow ample time, at least 5-6 hours, to truly enjoy the ride, including stops for photos, refreshments, and soaking in the views. Reddit

Historical Significance and Scenery

Beyond its natural beauty, the Lake Varese Cycle Path holds historical significance, particularly with its galleries and lookouts dating back to the Great War. These elements add a layer of intrigue and offer unique photographic opportunities, blending history with the stunning natural surroundings. TikTok

The scenery along the path is a major draw. You'll encounter picturesque lakeside views, tranquil wooded areas, and charming villages. The landscape changes as you circumnavigate the lake, offering a dynamic and engaging experience for cyclists and walkers alike. Reddit

While the path is praised for its beauty, some reviewers point out that certain sections might not always offer direct lake views, sometimes leading you through woods or alongside roads. However, the overall consensus is that the enchanting and beautiful place with its wonderful corners makes the journey worthwhile. Reddit

Community Insights and Criticisms

Travelers on Reddit and social media offer valuable insights into the Lake Varese Cycle Path. Many praise its beauty, enjoyable nature, and stunning views that change at every turn, deeming it accessible to everyone. Reddit The dedicated path, rare in Italy, is a significant plus. Reddit

However, some constructive criticism highlights areas for improvement. The lack of seamless connections to nearby lakes like Lake Monate and Lake Comabbio is a recurring point. Reddit Additionally, some users feel that the municipalities could do more to enhance the tourist experience, such as improving signage and integrating the path better with local amenities. Reddit

Concerns are also raised about the presence of ugly and polluting industries in beautiful locations, which detracts from the natural charm for some residents and visitors. Despite these points, the overall sentiment remains positive, with many expressing a desire to repeat the experience. Reddit+1

You may also like