Hey there, travel bug! Let me introduce you to Mergozzo, a hidden lake that lies just outside the Lake Maggiore. It’s one of those places that instantly makes you feel at home, with its stunning natural beauty.
Now, I know you’re probably thinking, “There are tons of lakes in Italy. What makes Mergozzo so special?” Well, for starters, it’s not as overrun with tourists as some of the more popular destinations.
Mergozzo packs a punch when it comes to history and culture. The town has a rich heritage, dating back to Roman times. You’ll find ancient ruins, medieval churches, and even a centuries-old elm tree right in the town square.
What to see in Mergozzo
Start your exploration at the heart of town, the Piazza del Municipio, where you’ll find the iconic elm tree, a local landmark that’s been standing tall for centuries. Hike up to the nearby Montorfano and visit the San Giovanni medieval complex and then, if you are longing for a refreshing solution, dive into Mergozzo Lake.
1. Mergozzo Lake
Lake Mergozzo is renowned for its exceptionally clear waters, making it one of the purest lakes in Italy. This pristine environment is a result of several factors: the absence of industrial pollution, a ban on motorboats, and a sophisticated sewage system that prevents waste from entering the lake. As a result, the lake is a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Believe it or not, Lake Mergozzo was once part of the much larger Lake Maggiore. Over centuries, the Toce River deposited sediment, gradually separating the two bodies of water. Today, a narrow channel connects the two lakes, offering a glimpse into the region’s geological history.
Surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests, Lake Mergozzo is a nature lover’s paradise. Hiking trails wind through the surrounding hills, offering breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding countryside. The nearby Montorfano mountain provides a challenging climb for experienced hikers, while the less strenuous Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) offers a more leisurely walk along the lake shore.
2. Montorfano
I recently discovered this little slice of paradise and was instantly captivated by its serene atmosphere. The lake, surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees, offers the perfect escape from the city. One of the first things you’ll notice is the abundance of wildlife. Ducks paddled lazily across the water, while dragonflies darted between the reeds. You can even catch a glimpse of a kingfisher diving for fish.
For nature lovers, there’s a lovely walking path that circles the entire lake. It’s the perfect way to soak up the scenery and get some exercise. As you strolled along the trail, you can’t help but be impressed by the diversity of plant life. From towering trees to delicate wildflowers, there’s something to admire at every turn.
One of the highlights of the visit is certainly discovering Villa Barbavara. This elegant 18th-century villa has a fascinating history. The original owners were involved in the ice industry, and you can still see the remnants of their operations around the lake. Today, the villa is a private residence, but its beautiful architecture and tranquil setting make it a real treat for the eyes.
3. San Giovanni medieval complex
Beneath the quaint exterior of the Romanesque church of San Giovanni, a rich tapestry of history is waiting to be discovered. Archaeological excavations have uncovered a fascinating complex that spans centuries, from the early Christian era to the Middle Ages.
The heart of the complex is a paleochristian baptistery, dating back to the 5th century. This sacred space, with its elongated apse facing east, was the site of baptism for generations of locals. Over time, the baptistery underwent several transformations, reflecting the changing religious and cultural landscape of the region.
In the 8th or 9th century, the site experienced a significant expansion and renovation. A new church was built, featuring a unique tripartite apse – a design that is characteristic of Carolingian architecture. This phase of construction represents a period of great religious and cultural vitality in the region.
4. Ancient Elm
This ancient elm isn’t just a tree; it’s a symbol of Mergozzo. Its roots run deep into the town’s history, and it’s been a gathering place for locals for generations. In fact, there are historical documents dating back to 1773 that mention the elm as the official meeting place for the community.
While its exact age is a bit of a mystery, there’s no doubt that this tree is one of the oldest in the region. Despite its advanced age, the elm is remarkably resilient. Sure, it’s had a few health scares over the years, but thanks to the care of local experts, it’s managed to survive. To help support its aging frame, the tree now relies on a system of metal braces.
But what’s truly amazing about this tree is its ability to adapt. Even though it’s hollow at its core, the elm continues to thrive. According to Fabrizio Butté, a local arborist, the tree’s life-giving sap still flows through the outer layers of its trunk, ensuring its survival. Of course it has considered one of the monumental trees in Piemonte region.
5. Candoglia Cave
Ever wondered where the magnificent marble for Milan’s Duomo came from? The story of Candoglia and the Duomo is deeply intertwined. Back in the 14th century, Gian Galeazzo Visconti, the Duke of Milan, had a vision: to build a cathedral that would surpass any other in Europe. He realized that ordinary building materials wouldn’t suffice. So, he turned his attention to the Candoglia quarry.
In 1387, Visconti granted the Veneranda Fabbrica del Duomo (the governing body of the cathedral) exclusive rights to the quarry. For centuries, huge blocks of marble were painstakingly extracted from the mountain and transported by water to Milan. Can you imagine the scale of this operation? Barges carrying these massive stones would navigate rivers and canals, making their way through the heart of Milan.
Even today, the Candoglia quarry remains an active site. Despite the challenges of extracting marble from such a narrow vein, the Veneranda Fabbrica continues to operate the quarry, ensuring that the Duomo has a steady supply of its signature stone for maintenance and restoration. Once here you can take guided tours that will give you a firsthand look at how the marble is extracted and learn about the fascinating history of this unique site.
Mergozzo’s Beaches
The beach here is more of a pebble-strewn stretch along the shore of Lake Maggiore. It’s not the kind of place where you’ll be building sandcastles or playing beach volleyball, but it’s a great spot to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the lake.
Mergozzo Lido public beach
The lake is renowned for its pristine waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just splashing around. The beach, Mergozzo Lido, features soft, sandy shores that are ideal for sunbathing, building sandcastles, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll. There is even wildlife passing here and there. This is a peaceful oasis, perfect for a more relaxing situation near Lake Maggiore.
La Quartina Beach
The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Unlike some of the more popular beaches, you won’t find hordes of tourists jostling for space. Instead, you can enjoy a leisurely swim or picnic in a serene and relaxing setting. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities considered that La Quartina is a great base.
La Rustica Beach
The beach is relatively small and intimate, with soft, sandy shores and plenty of shade provided by the nearby trees. It’s a great spot to read a book, take a swim, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery. For a bite to eat, there are a few restaurants and cafes located near the beach. You can enjoy a delicious meal with a view or grab a quick snack to keep you going.
Key Highlights:
- Mergozzo Lido Beach: mix of sandy and pebbly, plenty of amenities.
- La Quartina Beach: smaller, secluded, crystal-clear water.
- La Rustica Beach: soft sandy shores, plenty of shade.
Still not convinced? Visit Mergozzo and discover why this little-known gem is gaining popularity. From hiking through ancient forests to lounging on pristine beaches, there’s always something new to explore. What are you waiting for?
