Best lakes around Albizzate are found in the nearby Varese province, offering diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The area is characterized by two notable lakes, Lake Varese and Lake Comabbio, both providing distinct features for visitors. These lakes are surrounded by hills and greenery, making them suitable for outdoor activities and cultural exploration. The region combines natural beauty with historical sites, offering a blend of experiences.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
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The unique name "Panperduto" derives mainly from the local dialect and ancient stories related to river navigation before the construction of the dam. In the past, commercial barges carrying goods or stones often collided with the rapids and rocky riverbeds of this stretch of the river, ending up capsizing and losing their entire cargo. This meant the loss of the entire day's work and the earnings needed to buy food, hence the saying "we lost the bread" (hence Panperduto).
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La Diga del Panperduto (or rather, the Dighe del Panperduto) is one of Lombardy's most important and fascinating hydraulic junctions, located on the Ticino river in the municipality of Somma Lombardo, in the province of Varese. This monumental complex of hydraulic engineering dates back to the late 19th century (inaugurated in 1884) and mainly serves to divert the waters of the Ticino to feed two fundamental artificial canals: Villoresi Canal: used for irrigation purposes, guaranteeing water for over 100,000 hectares of agricultural land in the Po Valley. Industrial Canal: fundamental for the production of hydroelectric energy through various power plants in the area.
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The cycle path that surrounds the lake makes it an absolutely must-follow cycling destination. The cycle path was recently rebuilt and is constantly up and down.
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Near Bodio Lomnago there is this place from where it is possible to admire one of the many panoramic points offered by the beautiful cycle path of Lake Varese.
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The Panperduto dam is located along the Ticino and represents one of the most important hydraulic junctions in Lombardy. Part of the river's waters are diverted and form the Villoresi canal, which has the purpose of irrigating the numerous fields in the area.
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beautiful ice houses to see
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panorama to be enjoyed
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The most popular lakes near Albizzate are Lake Comabbio, known for its clear, calm waters and serene environment, and Lake Varese, which offers a blend of natural beauty and historical sites. Both are highly appreciated by visitors for their recreational opportunities.
Yes, both Lake Varese and Lake Comabbio offer family-friendly options. Lake Comabbio has a circular cycling and pedestrian path suitable for all ages, and Berrini Park in Ternate provides a playground. Lake Varese also features a family-friendly cycle path and areas like the Lakeside picnic area on Lake Varese.
The lakes near Albizzate are excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling on the extensive paths around both Lake Varese and Lake Comabbio. Water sports like kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and fishing are popular, especially on Lake Comabbio due to its calm, motorboat-free waters. For hiking, you can explore trails around the lakes, with options ranging from easy to intermediate. You can find more details on routes in the Hiking around Albizzate and Cycling around Albizzate guides.
Yes, the area around Lake Varese is rich in history and culture. You can visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Isolino Virginia, featuring an ancient Neolithic settlement, or the Sacro Monte di Varese with its 14 chapels. Another unique historical site is The Icehouses at Cazzago Brabbia, which are ancient structures used to preserve fish. The Panperduto Dam is also a significant man-made monument and hydraulic junction with historical importance.
The best time to visit the lakes near Albizzate is generally during the spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) months. During these periods, the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities like cycling and hiking, and the natural scenery is particularly beautiful. Summer can also be enjoyable for water sports, though it can be warmer and more crowded.
Absolutely! Both Lake Varese and Lake Comabbio offer excellent cycling opportunities. Lake Varese has an almost entirely flat cycle path encircling it, perfect for a relaxed ride. Lake Comabbio features a 12.5 km circular path, parts of which are uniquely built on wooden platforms suspended over the water, offering a distinct experience. You can find more cycling routes in the Cycling around Albizzate guide.
The lakes are surrounded by lush green hills and offer picturesque landscapes. Lake Varese is known for its scenic views and the nearby Brabbia Swamp Nature Reserve, a haven for birdwatchers. Lake Comabbio provides a tranquil environment with clear waters and thriving wildlife, ideal for nature photography and birdwatching along its trails.
Yes, there are several excellent viewpoints. The Lakeside picnic area on Lake Varese offers panoramic views along the Lake Varese cycle path. The Panperduto Dam also provides panoramic views of its lake. Additionally, the Sacro Monte di Varese offers scenic views over the entire lake district and the Alps.
Lake Comabbio stands out for its tranquil and intimate atmosphere, largely due to a complete ban on motorboats. This makes its clear, calm waters ideal for quiet water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. Its circular path, with sections built on wooden platforms over the water, also offers a distinctive experience for cyclists and pedestrians.
Yes, there are facilities available near the lakes. For instance, the Panperduto Dam highlight mentions a cafe, and generally, towns and villages around both Lake Varese and Lake Comabbio offer various dining options and cafes.
Visitors particularly enjoy the serene beauty and peaceful atmosphere of Lake Comabbio, often describing it as an 'oasis of beauty and peace.' The extensive and pleasant cycle paths around both Lake Varese and Lake Comabbio are also highly praised, offering easy rides and panoramic views. The blend of natural landscapes with historical and cultural sites provides a diverse experience that many appreciate.


Still not found your perfect lake around Albizzate? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.