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Italy
Piedmont
Novara

Varallo Pombia

Attractions and Places To See around Varallo Pombia - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Varallo Pombia include a mix of cultural sites, natural landscapes, and engineering marvels. This municipality in the province of Novara, Italy, is situated near the Ticino river and offers access to various protected areas and lakes. The region provides diverse opportunities for exploration, from historical structures to serene natural environments.

Best attractions and places to see around Varallo Pombia

  • The most popular attractions is Panperduto Dam, a man-made monument that marks the birth of the Naviglio and Villoresi canals. This site is a significant hydraulic junction, diverting waters from the Ticino river for irrigation and industrial use.
  • Another must-see spot is Lake Comabbio, a tranquil lake offering scenic views and direct access to a bike path. This location is considered an oasis of beauty and peace, ideal for quiet enjoyment.
  • Visitors also love Arona on Lake Maggiore, a well-known tourist resort on the southwest bank of Lake Maggiore. This city is recognized for its picturesque setting and has been awarded the Orange flag by the Italian Touring Club.
  • Varallo Pombia is known for its diverse attractions, including significant hydraulic structures, serene lakes, and charming settlements. The area offers a variety of places to see and explore, from natural reserves to historical sites.
  • The attractions around Varallo Pombia are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 880 upvotes and 314 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: May 9, 2026

Panperduto Dam

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iconic place where you can see the birth of the Naviglio and the Villoresi canal

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Arona on Lake Maggiore

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Arona is a northern Italian city with approximately 16,000 inhabitants in the Piedmont region, located on the southwest bank of Lake Maggiore.

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Lake Comabbio

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Another spot for lake views, with plenty of parking and direct access to the bike path.

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The panorama of the valley is noteworthy, where today the Ticino river delimits the border between Lombardy and Piedmont. Once upon a time, the transport of goods and people did not only take place towards Milan but also from one bank to the other thanks to the use of "shipping ports".
In the background the Monte Rosa massif and Monviso at sunset.

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Lagoni di Mercurago Nature Park

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The area has been protected since 1980, when the Lagoni di Mercurago Natural Park was created on a popular initiative. The Park has a dense network of hiking trails designed to allow you to fully discover the nature reserve…
The protected area includes a peat bog and meadows.
Thoroughbred horses are also bred here in the wooded belt.
To reach the park you can start at different places: Mercurago, at the main office – visitor center. Or from Dormelletto, Comignago or Oleggio Castello.
Enjoy what this nature reserve has to offer us.

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Tips from the Community

Filippo Ferrati
April 27, 2026, Lagoni di Mercurago Nature Park

Perfect spot for a moment of pure relaxation and silence

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be careful, many buses pass by

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Mauro
November 18, 2024, Arona sul Lago Maggiore

No fog, sun, pleasant view, strong wind at times, undulating route

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Wonderful forest with bodies of water and horses

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Truly a Spectacular Place 🌈 to Absolutely Enjoy the Lake of Parco dei Lagoni 🏞️

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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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Michele D.
November 11, 2023, Lago di Comabbio

great for a sota/gel

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Beautiful view overlooking the Lombardy-Piedmont border separated by the Ticino river

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Frequently Asked Questions

What natural features can I explore around Varallo Pombia?

You can discover several beautiful natural areas. Lake Comabbio offers tranquil views and direct access to a bike path. The Lagoni di Mercurago Nature Park is a protected area with a dense network of hiking trails, peat bogs, and meadows, ideal for nature lovers. While not publicly accessible, the Oasi di Bellinzago is another protected area managed by WWF Italia, known for its diverse wildlife.

Are there any historical or cultural sites near Varallo Pombia?

Yes, you can visit the Archaeological Museum in Varallo Pombia, which showcases ancient objects related to local peasant life and culture. Additionally, the Panperduto Dam is a significant man-made monument and hydraulic junction with historical importance, marking the birth of the Naviglio and Villoresi canals. The Iron Bridge Over the Villoresi Canal also offers historical context and noteworthy views.

What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Varallo Pombia?

The area around Varallo Pombia is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling, gravel biking, and road cycling on numerous routes. For instance, there are cycling routes like the 'Panperduto Dam – Via Lungo Canale Villoresi loop' and gravel biking options such as the 'Visconti castles Tour'. You can find more details on these activities in the Cycling around Varallo Pombia, Gravel biking around Varallo Pombia, and Road Cycling Routes around Varallo Pombia guides.

Are there family-friendly attractions in the area?

Absolutely! The Lake Comabbio area is considered family-friendly, offering scenic views and a bike path. The Lagoni di Mercurago Nature Park also has a dense network of hiking trails suitable for families. Additionally, the nearby Safari Park Pombia, located about 3 km from Varallo Pombia, is a major family attraction with a safari route, amusement area, and various exhibitions.

Can I visit a wildlife park near Varallo Pombia?

Yes, the Safari Park Pombia is a popular attraction located approximately 3 km from Varallo Pombia. It features a 5 km safari route where you can observe around 300 species of animals, including white lions, giraffes, and tigers. The park also includes an amusement area with rides and exhibitions like an aquarium and reptile house.

What is the Panperduto Dam, and why is it significant?

The Panperduto Dam is an iconic man-made monument and one of the most important hydraulic junctions in Lombardy. It marks the point where waters from the Ticino river are diverted to form the Villoresi canal, used for irrigation, and the Industrial canal. It's a fascinating site for those interested in engineering and local history, offering two routes starting from the dam itself.

What can I expect when visiting Arona on Lake Maggiore?

Arona on Lake Maggiore is a well-known tourist resort located on the southwest bank of Lake Maggiore. It's recognized for its picturesque setting and has been awarded the Orange flag by the Italian Touring Club, signifying its quality as a tourist destination. You can enjoy the charming town, beautiful lake views, and local amenities.

Is the Lagoni di Mercurago Nature Park suitable for hiking?

Yes, the Lagoni di Mercurago Nature Park is very suitable for hiking. It has been protected since 1980 and features a dense network of hiking trails designed to allow visitors to fully explore the nature reserve, which includes a peat bog and meadows. You can start your visit from various points like Mercurago, Dormelletto, Comignago, or Oleggio Castello.

When is the best time to visit Varallo Pombia for outdoor activities?

Given the focus on lakes, nature parks, and cycling routes, the spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities around Varallo Pombia. Temperatures are mild, and the natural landscapes are vibrant. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially around the lakes, but may be warmer.

Are there any dog-friendly walking options around Varallo Pombia?

While specific dog-friendly designations aren't always listed, many natural areas like the Lagoni di Mercurago Nature Park often allow dogs on trails, provided they are kept on a leash. It's always a good idea to check local regulations for specific parks or attractions before visiting with your dog.

How can I experience the local waterways and canals?

The region is rich in waterways. You can visit the Panperduto Dam, which is a key point for the Villoresi and Industrial canals. There are also cycling routes that follow these canals, such as the 'Panperduto Dam – Via Lungo Canale Villoresi loop' found in the Cycling around Varallo Pombia guide, offering a unique perspective on the area's hydraulic heritage.

What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions here?

Visitors appreciate the diverse offerings, from the engineering marvel of the Panperduto Dam to the serene beauty of Lake Comabbio, described as an 'oasis of beauty and peace'. The picturesque setting of Arona on Lake Maggiore is also highly rated. The Lagoni di Mercurago Nature Park is loved for its extensive hiking trails and natural tranquility.

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