The best running trails in Verbano-Cusio-Ossola

The Lago di Mergozzo - Ring tour offers a serene jogging experience around one of Italy's cleanest lakes. You'll follow the "Sentiero Azzurro," a mix of paved paths and natural sections through woods and pastures, enjoying continuous views of Lago di Mergozzo and Montorfano. This moderate 5.0-mile (8.0 km) route involves about 581 feet (177 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 59 minutes to complete. As you jog, you'll pass through rocky chestnut forests, where you might spot ancient ruins, and enjoy shaded sections along the way. The path provides ample space for pedestrians on its lakeside promenade, ensuring a peaceful run.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is generally accessible and suitable for most skill levels. The route is highly rated by the community, suggesting a consistently enjoyable experience. Since motorboats are not permitted on Lago di Mergozzo, you can expect a tranquil environment free from noise pollution. The trail is well-maintained, offering a mix of surfaces from paved to gravel and unpaved sections. Consider starting your jog in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy the best light and potentially cooler temperatures, especially during warmer months.

This route stands out for its exceptionally clean waters and the peaceful atmosphere created by the absence of motorboats. As you jog, you'll encounter historical elements, including ancient mule tracks and Romanesque churches like the Church of San Giovanni Battista in Montorfano. The trail also passes by Montorfano, a granite mountain, where information panels explain the geological history of the area and the techniques used for quarrying granite, some of which contributed to Milan's Duomo. From certain points, you can even catch glimpses of Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands, adding to the scenic beauty.

The Zamboni Hut and Fairy Lake Loop is a difficult jogging route that takes you through varied alpine terrain, including larch forests and sections with glacier moraine. You will cover 11.3 miles (18.1 km) and gain a substantial 3830 feet (1167 metres) in elevation, typically taking around 3 hours and 20 minutes to complete. Along the way, you can expect rewarding views of the majestic Monte Rosa massif, often referred to as the 'Himalayas of Europe', before reaching the tranquil Lago delle Fate with its distinctive milky turquoise waters.

This demanding route requires very good fitness and sure-footedness, making it best suited for experienced trail runners or hikers. It is not recommended for casual jogging due to the significant elevation changes and technical sections. Make sure you are prepared with sturdy shoes and have some alpine experience before you set out. Planning your visit during favorable weather conditions is also crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.

The trail's unique features include passing the welcoming Zamboni Zappa Hut and experiencing the dramatic scenery shaped by ancient glaciers. The Lago delle Fate, or Fairy Lake, is a highlight, nestled in a stunning mountainous backdrop. This loop provides a deep immersion into the natural environment of the region, showcasing its rugged beauty and challenging you with its alpine character.

Embark on a difficult jogging route from Cannobio to the Santuario di Sant'Agata, a challenging 7.9-mile (12.7 km) ring tour that climbs 1476 feet (450 metres) over approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes. The ascent offers continuous views of Lake Maggiore as you navigate a very steep, old path paved with slabs and reinforced sections, winding through dense bushes and trees. You will pass through shaded forests, including birch, and occasionally small settlements, with the reward of impressive panoramic views over Cannobio and the lake from Sant'Agata.

This route requires very good fitness due to its significant elevation gain and varied terrain. The path includes sections that are stony, steep, and washed out, especially on the return journey through shaded woods. It is important to exercise sure-footedness throughout the trail, and you should avoid attempting the route in wet conditions to ensure your safety and enjoyment.

This ring tour stands out as the most popular jogging route around Cannobio, highly rated by the community for its unique blend of physical challenge and scenic beauty. It offers a dynamic experience, transitioning from the lakeside environment to forested mountain paths. The combination of a demanding workout and exceptional vistas of Lake Maggiore and the picturesque village of Sant'Agata makes this trail particularly notable.

Embark on the Pian Cavallone and Pizzo Pernice Loop Trail for a difficult jogging experience that takes you through diverse landscapes. You will cover 8.8 miles (14.2 km) and gain 2080 feet (634 metres) in elevation, with an estimated completion time of 2 hours and 19 minutes. The route guides you through dense fir and pine forests before opening up to expansive alpine meadows, offering panoramic vistas from Monte Cavallone and stunning views of Lake Maggiore from Pizzo Pernice.

This demanding route is best suited for experienced trail runners who are prepared for significant elevation changes and varied terrain. Be aware that conditions can shift with the seasons; you might encounter soft snow, and some paths can be rugged or covered in foliage. Good physical fitness and sure-footedness are essential for tackling this challenging journey, so plan your visit during optimal weather.

The Pian Cavallone and Pizzo Pernice Loop Trail immerses you in the wild beauty of the Val Grande National Park, showcasing its unique natural environment. From Monte Cavallone, you can spot Monte Zeda and the peaks of the Swiss Alps, while Pizzo Pernice provides a different perspective, overlooking Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands. This trail stands out for its combination of strenuous activity and rewarding, far-reaching views across the region.

The Monte Faiè Loop Trail is a difficult 4.7-mile jogging route offering panoramic views of lakes and mountains, featuring varied terrain.

Jog the 4.1-mile Lago delle Fate loop in Alta Valsesia Natural Park, a moderate route with 550 feet of gain and milky turquoise waters.