Best mountain peaks around Grantola are found in the Province of Varese, Lombardy, Italy, situated between the Valtravaglia and Valcuvia regions. This area features a diverse landscape, characterized by pre-alpine and lake environments. While Grantola itself is a smaller town, it serves as a base for exploring the surrounding mountainous terrain. The region offers a variety of peaks and passes, providing opportunities for outdoor activities.
Last updated: September 26, 2026
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Passo S. Antonio Vararo / Cuvignone 1,036 m Passage at 1,036 meters above sea level From the South: Cittiglio to the North: Porto Valtravaglia About 200 hairpin bends on asphalt Strada Provinciale 8 https://stradedamoto.it/strade.asp?RicPas=4281
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Passo del Monte Cuvignone Via Vararo, Cittiglio / Castelveccana VA The Cuvignone Pass (1,036 m above sea level) is a pass near Vararo, in the Varese area between Valcuvia and Luinese. In cycling, it is known for its demanding climb, which can be tackled from various sides (directly from Cittiglio or Castelveccana, or indirectly after climbing Sant'Antonio or crossing the San Michele Pass). It has been used for training since the time of Alfredo Binda (originally from the area) and offers particularly technical and demanding descents. Ivan Basso also trained there. The pass is also famous in the automotive world, as it has been the most selective timed section of the "ACI Varese Rally" since the 80s, today the "Rally dei Laghi". Even in motorsport, as in cycling, it has been tackled in all directions, and in all directions it has always stood out for its difficulty, consisting of fast sections, others slower but very technical, narrow hairpin bends uphill and downhill – all over a length of about 12/14 km at the discretion of the organizer. Text / Source: wikipedia.org/wiki/Passo_del_Cuvignone https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passo_del_Cuvignone
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Attention. If you descend towards Cuasso al monte towards the disused hospital, former sanatorium, the road is then blocked by a huge, insurmountable gate. Apparently, there is a path to the left of the hospital buildings. Right in front of the gate to exit, you can climb onto the low wall (there are steps) which is quite high and by doing so, following it for 20 meters, you avoid this barrier. Be careful, especially if you have a bike, of brambles and not falling.
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a classic from the Varese area. It's worth it.
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Pleasant. Be very careful when cutting through the woods or taking the short route. The gentlest route, starting from Rasa keeping to the right, is suitable for practically everyone.
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The top offers a breathtaking view!
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For breathtaking views and memorable experiences, consider visiting the Cross at Pizzoni di Laveno, which offers a magnificent panorama over Lake Maggiore. Another highly recommended spot is Monte Chiusarella — Summit and Summit Cross, known for its 360° views of the lakes and the Alpine belt. Visitors also appreciate Poncione di Ganna (993 m) for its vast panorama of Valganna and surrounding lakes.
Yes, Monte Chiusarella — Summit and Summit Cross is categorized as family-friendly. It offers an intermediate route to a summit with a characteristic meadow, providing great views that can be enjoyed by families.
The mountain peaks around Grantola offer diverse and stunning views. From the Cross at Pizzoni di Laveno, you can see Lake Maggiore and the mountains on its western shore. Monte Chiusarella provides a 360° panorama of the pre-Alpine lakes and the Alpine belt. Poncione di Ganna offers a vast panorama of Valganna, including the Ganna and Ghirla lakes, and the Varesotto lakes.
Absolutely. The ascent to the Cross at Pizzoni di Laveno involves climbing over large boulders in a steep ascent, making it a challenging experience. Similarly, the climb to Poncione di Ganna (993 m) is described as a short but steep rocky climb, offering a rewarding challenge for experienced hikers.
On Monte Piambello, you can find parts of the Cadorna line, which are fortifications from the First World War. This peak is part of a multi-day trail that traces these historical structures, offering a blend of nature and history.
Beyond hiking the peaks, the area around Grantola offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous running trails, such as the 'Lake Ghirla Cycle Path – Lake Ghirla loop' or 'Morning Run loop from Rancio Valcuvia'. For mountain biking, options include the 'Lake Ghirla – Lake Ghirla loop' or 'Porto Ceresio – Lake Ghirla loop'. Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy routes like 'On the heights of Monte Scerrè' or 'Valganna Cycle Path – Lake Ghirla Cycle Path loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the Running Trails around Grantola, MTB Trails around Grantola, and Cycling around Grantola guides.
Yes, the Cuvignone Pass, located at 1,050 meters, connects Valcuvia with Luinese. While the pass itself doesn't offer direct views, the roads leading to it from Cittiglio, Nasca, or Casalzuigno are very scenic, with views of the lakes, making it popular among cyclists.
Monte Chiusarella is notable for its 'Prati Magri' (meadows on calcareous soil) which are of great naturalistic interest. The summit also features a characteristic 'summit meadow' and a prominent birch tree just below the summit, visible from a distance.
Visitors consistently praise the magnificent panorama from the Cross at Pizzoni di Laveno, highlighting the stunning views over Lake Maggiore and the mountains on the western shore. Despite the steep and exhausting ascent, especially in high temperatures, many consider the view to be well worth the effort.
The terrain varies across the peaks. For instance, the ascent to the Cross at Pizzoni di Laveno involves climbing over large boulders on a steep path. The climb to Poncione di Ganna is a short but steep rocky climb. Monte Piambello offers a lovely steady walk through the woods. Always be prepared for varied conditions, including potentially exposed sections.
For Poncione di Ganna, it's recommended to visit on a clear day to fully appreciate the vast panorama. The summit is very exposed, so be mindful of wind. While the climb is short, it is steep and rocky, so appropriate footwear is advised.


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