Biandronno
Lake Varese: a wonder of Lombardy
Have you ever been to Lake Varese? This natural wonder in Lombardy is located at the foot of the Varesine Prealps and has a very distinctive shape that makes it easily recognizable: that of a shoe! The lake has an average depth of 12 meters and a surface area of 14.5 square kilometers, making it the tenth largest lake in Italy. Additionally, along with other lakes such as Lake Maggiore and Lake Comabbio, it is one of the so-called "Seven Lakes" of the province of Varese.
But let's take a look at the highlights of Lake Varese.
Formation
Lake Varese was formed about 15,000 years ago, during the retreat of the glacier that gave rise to the nearby Lake Maggiore. At that time, Lake Varese was much larger and included much of the surrounding lakes.
Isolino Virginia
One of the most interesting places on Lake Varese is Isolino Virginia, located in the municipality of Biandronno. This small island has an ancient history and has changed names several times. In 1863, remains of prehistoric pile-dwelling civilizations were found and are now preserved at the Ponti Museum on the island itself. Thanks to numerous archaeological discoveries, Lake Varese was included, along with Lake Monate, among the "Prehistoric Pile dwellings around the Alps" in 2011.
Waters
After 60 years of being declared unfit for swimming, Lake Varese has become swimable again, experimentally, on the beaches of Schiranna di Varese and Bodio Lomnago from July 2nd, 2022, thanks to interventions aimed at restoring the waters by local institutions, the Varese province and Lombardy region.
Flora
Nestled between the basins of Lake Varese and Lake Comabbio, the Palude Brabbia nature reserve covers 459 hectares and is one of the best-preserved examples of a plain bog. This nature reserve protects and preserves the flora and fauna of the area, offering the opportunity to admire unique plants and animals.
Activities
Lake Varese is renowned for rowing and its shores are home to some of Italy's top rowing clubs, such as the Canottieri Varese and Canottieri Gavirate. Additionally, the lake is rich in ducks, making it a suitable place for picnics and enjoying nature.
Conclusion
Lake Varese is a natural gem of Lombardy, offering visitors a great variety of activities and places of interest. Its unique shape, millennia-old history, and the beauty of its flora and fauna make it a place worth visiting at least once in a lifetime.
