Gavirate
Welcome to Lake Varese!
Hello all nature lovers! Today I will tell you about one of the hidden treasures of Lombardy, beautiful Lake Varese.
Formation of Lake Varese
Lake Varese was born about 15,000 years ago, at the same time as nearby Lake Maggiore, when the retreat of the Lake Maggiore glacier created the large basin in which the city and its lake now lie. At that time, Lake Varese was much larger and included most of the surrounding lakes.
Isolino Virginia, the jewel of Lake Varese
The small island of Virginia, in the municipality of Biandronno, is a true jewel of Lake Varese. The island has been called many things, but since 1878 it has been known as Isolino Virginia, in honor of the wife of the last owner. Important archeological remains of pile dwellings have been found on the island.
The waters of Lake Varese
After 60 years of not being suitable for swimming, the lake has become swimmable again on an experimental basis, on the beaches of Schiranna di Varese and Bodio Lomnago. This has been made possible thanks to interventions aimed at restoring the waters, carried out by the municipalities that border its shores, the province of Varese and the Lombardy region.
The flora
Nestled between the basins of Lake Varese and Lake Comabbio, the Brabbia Marsh is a nature reserve that protects one of the best-preserved examples of a lowland bog.
The municipalities bordering Lake Varese
Lake Varese borders a total of nine municipalities: Varese, Azzate, Bardello with Malgesso and Bregano, Biandronno, Bodio Lomnago, Buguggiate, Galliate Lombardo, Cazzago Brabbia and Gavirate. The latter was long the main municipality facing the lake, although the municipality of Varese acquired a good part of its shores only in the 1920s, when it became the provincial capital.
The Seven Lakes of the province of Varese
Lake Varese is part of the so-called "Seven Lakes" of the province of Varese along with Lake Maggiore, Lake Comabbio, Lake Lugano, Lake Ganna, Lake Ghirla and Lake Monate.
Rowing on Lake Varese
Lake Varese is known for its rowing races and is home to Canottieri Varese, organizer of national and international rowing events. Canottieri Gavirate joined the scene in 1960 and won the Montù Cup in 2007, 2008 and 2009.
The fauna of Lake Varese
Lake Varese is also known for the large number of ducks that populate its waters. But the fauna of the lake is not limited to ducks, there are also numerous species of fish.
Conclusions
Lake Varese is a natural spectacle of incredible beauty and one of the hidden treasures of Lombardy. With breathtaking landscapes, rich in history and life, this lake is a must-visit destination. Do not miss the opportunity to admire its shoe-shaped form, stroll along its shores, practice water sports and taste its local cuisine. Come and say hello and discover the magical Lake Varese!
