City break in Varese. Active leisure ideas for Varese - attractions, recreation and nightlife

Varese and the surrounding towns have much to offer to travelers. Both fans of architectural landmarks and adherents of eco-tourism will be satisfied with their vacation in this part of Italy. Having explored the majority of landmarks within the city borders, consider visiting the nearby towns to see something unique, the so-called “painted villages”. The town of Marchirolo is, perhaps, the most famous for its wall paintings and frescos. Other notable settlements are Boarezzo, Runo, Arcumeggia, San Fermo, Olona, and Peveranza. Incredibly beautiful drawings are in full harmony with the surrounding environment and look absolutely stunning.

Initially, these towns looked quite ordinary until 1983 when the administration of Marchirolo decided to change the look of the town. They invited 15 artists and asked them to create drawings on certain themes. At Marchirolo, visitors can see several famous works, such as "The Postcard from America" by Carlo Berta and Felice Filippini or Waiting by Umberto Galliani and Giovanni Repossi. New works appear almost every year to the joy of locals and numerous visitors of this small town. Besides the paintings, visitors are recommended to walk along old farmhouses and villas, getting acquainted with the rural life of the region, and then head to the Church of San Martino. The charming church is located on a hill and overlooks the entire town. Travelers, who don’t mind walking through the wood for about half an hour, should also visit the St. Paul Church. This gorgeous Romanesque church offers a breathtaking view of Lake Ceresio.

Travelers interested in religious landmarks and everyone keen on mountain paths are welcome to explore the ancient “Sacred Path”. The Sacred Path of the Chapels of the Rosary was created yet in 1604. The cobbled path was made to connect the 14 chapels that present the “Mysteries of the Rosary”. The building lasted almost a century, attracting many talented sculptors and architects. Excursions to Sacro Monte are always very popular with tourists. This one of the nine Sacred Pre-Alpine Mountains features incredibly harmonic and peaceful environment. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

In 2003, Sacro Monte became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The path is, indeed, amazing. Walk there to feel the concept of “asceticism” or simply enjoy the wide path and the fabulous views of the surroundings. On the way to the top, tourists will pass 14 chapels and then reach the high altar of Sanctuary. The altar is decorated with the statue of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary made of dark wood and protected by the display case that dates back to the 18th century. As Sacro Monte is 883 meters high, it is also a fantastic place to explore surroundings and admire the view.

The mountain is also home to one more landmark, the Park of Campo dei Fiori. Spacious valleys of the park stretch towards Switzerland. This is a true gem for all fans of hiking. In the park, visitors can see an enormous number of mountains – the Pennine, Maritime, Graian, Rhaetian, Cottian, and Lepontine Alps, as well as some Pre-Alps, such as Monviso, Argentera, Gran Paradiso, Levanne, Monte Disgrazia, the Monte Rosa chain, and many more. Walk to the north of the park to see fabulous lakes: Varese, Maggiore, Monate, and Comabbio.

With 13 rowing clubs and well-developed sports infrastructure, Varese is definitely a great choice for all fans of active recreation. Tourists are welcome to try various water-based sports and enjoy either energetic racing or calm boating on flat waters. Lake Varese is the location of two largest rowing clubs of the area – Canottieri Varese and Canottieri Gavirate. Those, who don’t like water, can always rent a bike and explore numerous cycling paths. One of the most scenic cycling paths connects Lake Varese and Lake Comabbio.