Best attractions and places to see around Masate, a municipality in the Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy, offer opportunities for outdoor recreation. The area provides a tranquil setting with access to regional green spaces and historical waterways. Its location allows for exploration of the Martesana Canal and surrounding agricultural lands. Visitors can find various routes for cycling and walking through the Lombardy region.
Last updated: May 25, 2026
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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The Naviglio della Martesana, definitively completed in 1496 under the leadership of Ludovico il Moro, flows from Trezzo sull’Adda to Milan for a total length of 38 km. The route runs alongside the ancient Roman road (the current SS 11 padana superiore) which crossed the Adda with two branches: at Vaprio and Cassano. The irrigation of the lands located above the spring belt was for a long time the predominant use of the canal, so much so that initially navigation was limited to two days a week; concurrently with the improvement of the agricultural structure thanks to irrigation, a notable flourishing of stately homes occurred in the Baroque era, aimed at enjoying the convenience of travel on water and controlling the owned lands.
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The Naviglio della Martesana, initially known as Naviglio Piccolo, is one of the Milanese canals that connects Milan with the course of the Adda river through the municipalities of Martesana. Commissioned in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza, it was used for irrigating the countryside but also represented the ambitious project of connecting Milan with Lake Como and thus with the Alps and Ticino. The Naviglio della Martesana is a place rich in history and beauty, a heritage for everyone that, however, today is still little known and protected. Along the Naviglio runs a rather busy cycle path, which allows you to admire the landscape and cultural beauties, such as the rich flora, fauna, or the numerous historic villas, including the Renaissance Villa Melzi d’Eril in Vaprio d’Adda.
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The Naviglio Martesana cycle path is a 30-35 km cycle and pedestrian route that connects Milan (Cassina de' Pomm/via Melchiorre Gioia area) to Trezzo sull'Adda, running alongside the homonymous canal. It is a predominantly asphalted, flat, easy route suitable for everyone, passing through parks, rural areas, and historic noble villas from the 17th-18th centuries.
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The Naviglio Martesana cycle path is a cycle-pedestrian route of about 30-35 km that connects Milan (Cassina de' Pomm/via Melchiorre Gioia area) to Trezzo sull'Adda, running alongside the canal of the same name. It is a predominantly asphalted, flat, easy route suitable for everyone, which crosses parks, rural areas, and historic noble villas from the 17th-18th centuries.
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It's a beautiful, well-maintained bike path that passes through evocative and historically rich locations. The section connecting Cernusco to Gorgonzola is certainly among the most beautiful and picturesque.
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Nice gravel ride, from Gessate to Cremona. 95% on paved cycle paths and dirt road in the woods along the Adda. The first stretch from Cassano to Lodi is very nice, all in the woods, several single tracks with tall grass or "cycle path" but with a dirt surface. The river is almost always nearby. From Lodi to Cremona all on paved cycle path, elevated on cultivated fields and more exposed to the wind. Stops in Lodi, Pizzighettone and Cremona for visits. Return by train.
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Naturalistic and historical, it is worth visiting
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This place is a quiet place surrounded by greenery
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Masate and its surroundings are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy cycling along the historic Martesana Canal Cycle Path, which offers routes for all skill levels. For hiking, explore the natural environment of the Parco del Rio Vallone, or try one of the many routes available for both hiking and mountain biking. You can find detailed routes for cycling, hiking, and MTB trails in the area.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Martesana Canal Cycle Path is excellent for cycling and walking, with sections offering greenery and parks. The Rudun Water Wheel, Groppello d'Adda, and the Taccani Hydroelectric Power Plant and Trezzo Castle Tower also offer engaging historical insights. Within Masate, Parco di Via Roma provides children's play areas, pedestrian paths, and sports facilities.
You can explore the rich history of the region. The Martesana Canal Cycle Path follows a canal built in 1460, offering a journey through history. Don't miss The Rudun Water Wheel, Groppello d'Adda, a fascinating structure from around 1600. Another significant site is the Taccani Hydroelectric Power Plant and Trezzo Castle Tower, where you can see a century-old power plant alongside a medieval castle tower.
Masate is surrounded by green spaces and natural features. The Martesana Canal Cycle Path itself is a beautiful green corridor. You can also explore the Sentiero del Parco del Rio Vallone through Oak Grove (Boscone), which offers a moderate hiking trail through Lombardy's largest lowland forest with ancient oaks. Within Masate, Parco di Via Roma provides a local green space for relaxation and recreation.
The Martesana Canal Cycle Path is a popular route for cycling and walking, known for its historical significance and natural beauty. It follows the Martesana Canal, which was constructed in 1460. The path offers various segments, with some, like the one between Bellinzago Lombardo and Inzago, noted as being among Italy's most beautiful cycle paths. The entire canal stretches for about 30 kilometers, providing a continuous route from Milan towards the Adda river.
Beyond the main highlights, consider visiting The Rudun Water Wheel in Groppello d'Adda. This impressive water wheel, built around 1600, was designed to raise water for an irrigation system, not grind grain, and is affectionately known as 'el rudun' by locals. It offers a glimpse into historical engineering and local heritage.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of history and nature. The Martesana Canal Cycle Path is highly praised for its picturesque corners, greenery, and the opportunity to discover the region's history. The tranquility of the Adda river, near sites like the Taccani Hydroelectric Power Plant, is also valued for long walks on comfortable cycle-pedestrian paths.
Yes, many of the outdoor trails around Masate are suitable for walks with dogs. The Martesana Canal Cycle Path and the various hiking routes through green spaces like the Parco del Rio Vallone offer ample opportunities for you and your dog to enjoy the natural environment. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and follow local regulations.
The best time to visit Masate for outdoor activities is generally during the spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) months. During these periods, the weather is typically mild and pleasant for cycling, hiking, and exploring. Summer can be quite warm and humid, especially along the canal paths, while winter offers a cooler, quieter experience, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
Yes, there are several easy walking routes. The Martesana Canal Cycle Path offers many flat and accessible sections perfect for a leisurely stroll. Within Masate, Parco di Via Roma provides easy pedestrian paths. You can also find easy hiking loops, such as the 'Farmhouse loop from Inzago' which is approximately 6 km long, or sections of the 'Sentiero del Parco del Rio Vallone'.
The time required varies by attraction. Exploring the Martesana Canal Cycle Path can range from a short hour-long walk or cycle to a half-day or full-day excursion, depending on the distance you cover. Visiting The Rudun Water Wheel or the Taccani Hydroelectric Power Plant and Trezzo Castle Tower might take 1-2 hours each, allowing time for observation and photography. For the Sentiero del Parco del Rio Vallone, a moderate hike could take 2-3 hours.
Parking is generally available in the towns along the Martesana Canal, such as Gessate, Inzago, and Bellinzago Lombardo, which provide access points to the Martesana Canal Cycle Path. For attractions like The Rudun Water Wheel in Groppello d'Adda or the Taccani Hydroelectric Power Plant in Trezzo sull'Adda, you can usually find parking within the respective villages or designated areas nearby.


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