Best lakes around Desio. Desio, situated in the province of Monza and Brianza within Lombardy, Italy, offers access to a region known for its diverse aquatic landscapes. While the municipality itself does not contain large natural lakes, its location provides proximity to both famous Italian lakes and smaller, local water bodies. The area features a variety of natural and man-made parks with lakes, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Last updated: June 17, 2026
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The Increa Park covers an area of approximately 330,000 sq m (33 hectares) in the southeastern part of the municipality of Brugherio and borders the municipality of Cernusco to the southeast and a stretch of the eastern ring road to the northwest. Where the park is today, there was once an agricultural area that, from the 1960s, was the site of sand and gravel extraction activities; then, in 1985, thanks to the amendment to the PRG and the agreement between the municipality of Brugherio and some private quarry owners, environmental recovery interventions began, aimed at creating a public equipped park including green areas and a small lake. In 1987, the area was acquired by the municipal heritage and in the following twenty years, the works were carried out that have led today to the largest green lung in Brugherio and its surroundings.
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Lago di Bruzzano is an artificial lake situated within Parco Nord Milano, specifically in the Bruzzano area. Constructed to manage floodwaters from the Seveso River, it serves as a recreational spot with walking and cycling paths, as well as birdwatching opportunities. The lake is fed by groundwater and features an island to support aquatic bird nesting. In the event of exceptional rainfall, the lake can temporarily hold floodwaters, which are filtered before being released back into the Seveso River. The area is monitored by surveillance cameras, and automatic barriers prevent public access during flood events.
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Lake Bruzzano is an artificial lake located within the Parco Nord Milano, specifically in the Bruzzano area. Created to manage floodwaters from the Seveso River, it serves as a recreational area with walking and cycling trails, as well as birdwatching opportunities. The lake is fed by groundwater and features an island for nesting waterfowl. In the event of exceptional rainfall, the lake can temporarily retain floodwaters, which are filtered before being returned to the Seveso River. The area is monitored by surveillance cameras, and automatic barriers prevent public access during flood events.
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The park features three large bodies of water: Lake Niguarda, Lake Bruzzano, and Lake Nord in Cinisello Balsamo, along with a slightly smaller one housing the Oxy.gen pavilion, dedicated to the theme of breathing. This pavilion hosts conferences and shows, next to the Zambon pharmaceutical research center in Bresso.
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The path called “oasi lipu” that runs alongside the road does not exist, only asphalt where cars pass
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Lake completed in 2015 and fed by water taken from Villoresi
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Endless cycle routes just outside the city centre
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While Desio itself doesn't have large natural lakes, the region offers several popular spots. Niguarda Lake, Parco Nord Milano is a well-kept and quiet park north of Milan, offering a relaxing environment with a large lake. Another favorite is Increa Park, which features an artificial lake and hosts sporting and recreational events. The Oasi LIPU Cesano Maderno is also highly regarded for its ponds where migratory birds can be spotted.
Yes, several locations are suitable for families. Niguarda Lake, Parco Nord Milano and Increa Park are both listed as family-friendly. Increa Park, in particular, hosts sporting and recreational events, especially during the summer season, making it a lively spot for all ages. The Oasi LIPU Cesano Maderno offers opportunities for wildlife observation, which can be engaging for children.
The lakes and surrounding parks offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy relaxing walks, cycling, and even mountain biking. For instance, Niguarda Lake, Parco Nord Milano is excellent for MTB outings. The region also provides opportunities for birdwatching, especially at the Oasi LIPU Cesano Maderno. For more structured activities, you can explore various hiking trails, MTB trails, and running routes in the wider Desio area.
Yes, many of the local parks and lakes offer easy walking paths. Niguarda Lake, Parco Nord Milano is described as a well-kept and quiet park, perfect for relaxing strolls. Lake Segrino, one of the smaller Brianza lakes, is known for its bike path circling it, which is also ideal for easy walks. For specific routes, you can find easy hiking trails in the Desio area, such as the 'Villoresi Cycle Path – 58 km loop from Cascina Meda'.
Desio's location in Lombardy provides easy access to some of Italy's most renowned lakes. These include Lake Como, famous for its elegant villas and picturesque towns like Bellagio; Lake Garda, Italy's largest lake, offering diverse landscapes and activities; and Lake Maggiore, known for its stunning Borromean Islands and botanical gardens. Another beautiful option is Lake Iseo, a more tranquil 'hidden gem' with Monte Isola, Europe's largest car-free lake island.
While the larger lakes can be busy, the smaller Lakes of Brianza offer a more tranquil experience. Lake Iseo is often considered a hidden gem compared to its larger counterparts, providing clear waters and a peaceful environment. Closer to Desio, lakes like Pusiano, Annone, Alserio, and Segrino offer quieter settings. Lake Segrino, for example, is a small, swimmable lake with a relaxing bike path around it.
The lakes and surrounding areas boast diverse natural features. You'll find lush vegetation, including laurel, olive trees, and palms around Lake Como, and exotic plants near Lake Maggiore. The Oasi LIPU Cesano Maderno is a significant site for woods, moors, wetlands, and ponds, attracting migratory birds. Lake Pusiano is notable for its Island of Cypresses and diverse wildlife like squirrels and swans. Many parks, such as Parco Nord Milano, feature forests and natural reserves.
While the immediate lakes around Desio are primarily natural or man-made parks, the larger lakes in Lombardy hold significant historical and cultural value. Lake Como is renowned for its historic villas and gardens. Lake Garda features ancient ruins in towns like Sirmione. Lake Maggiore is famous for the Borromean Islands, which house grand palaces and beautiful gardens, reflecting centuries of history and aristocratic influence.
The lakes in Lombardy generally enjoy a mild climate year-round. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are often considered ideal, offering pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities and beautiful scenery. Summer (June-August) is popular for water sports and events, though it can be warmer and more crowded. Even in winter, the mild climate around lakes like Como and Maggiore can make for a pleasant visit, especially for those interested in quieter exploration.
Yes, the Oasi LIPU Cesano Maderno is an excellent spot for birdwatching. This oasis, covering about 100 hectares of woods, moors, and wetlands, features ponds where migratory birds such as the Great White Egret, bee-eaters, mallards, coots, kingfishers, and gray herons can be spotted. Depending on the season, bitterns and night herons are also sighted in the reeds.
Yes, some of the parks and lakes offer facilities. Increa Park has a bar called 'Masnada' which regularly organizes events and has both outdoor and indoor dining areas. The larger, more famous lakes like Como, Garda, and Maggiore are surrounded by numerous towns with a wide array of cafes, restaurants, and accommodations.
Yes, the area includes such sites. Laghetto di Bruzzano, located within Parco Nord Milano, is an artificial lake constructed to manage floodwaters from the Seveso River. Despite its primary function, it also serves as a recreational area with walking and cycling trails, and opportunities for birdwatching. It features an island designed for nesting waterfowl.


Still not found your perfect lake around Desio? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.