Best lakes around San Donato Milanese offer a mix of natural and man-made aquatic environments, providing diverse recreational opportunities. Located near Milan, the area features lakes formed from historical quarries and repurposed seaplane bases. These locations serve as important ecological sites and popular spots for outdoor activities.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
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Dive into the Milanese summer with the free beach at Parco Idroscalo: relaxation, sun, and safety for the whole family. Free access, controlled waters, and constant supervision for a swimming experience truly tailored for adults and children. A lawn – free and open space – in Riviera Est where you can sunbathe and access the water. From May 30th to September 6th, 2026, you can also swim at Idroscalo – Monday to Friday from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM – in an area supervised by lifeguards.
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The Idroscalo of Milan, historically nicknamed the "sea of Milan", offers various options of lidos, swimming pools, and equipped beaches for those seeking relaxation, swimming, and sunbathing at the gates of the city. The basin's water is certified as clean and swimmable, regularly monitored by the competent authorities.
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The Museo Giovani Artisti exhibits traditional sculpture and contemporary environmental art in a public, free, open-air area. The Museum was born from the collaboration between the Accademia di Belle Arti di Brera, the Associazione Amici dell’Accademia di Brera, and the Istituzione Idroscalo, thanks to the support of Fondazione Cariplo. It is an international example of the valorization of youth creativity and talent. It is part of the training path for students of the Scuola di scultura dell’Accademia di Belle Arti di Brera and is based on the analysis of the relationship between Art and Nature and between Art, Environment, and Landscape, proving to be an innovative permanent laboratory.
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Oasis of peace and tranquility a few km from Milan
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Large park behind the Castello Sforza. With many paths, sports facilities, a lake and bridges.
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It's nice to find peace and quiet in this park...
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Several lakes in the area are great for families. Idroscalo of Milan offers cycle paths, parks, and various recreational facilities. Sempione Park features an artificial pond, playgrounds, and open meadows. Lago Mulino di Cusico is a natural oasis with a dirt road along the lake, perfect for a stroll. Additionally, Zipo Farm has a small lake and free-grazing cows, while Isola delle Rose provides a beautiful rose garden and tranquil views.
Yes, there are several options for walking and hiking. Lago Mulino di Cusico has a dirt road running along its edge, ideal for walks. The Idroscalo of Milan features extensive cycle paths that are also suitable for walking. For more dedicated hiking, you can explore routes like the 'Chiaravalle Abbey loop' or 'Macconago Canal – Cascina Brandezzata loop'. Find more details on these and other trails in the Hiking around San Donato Milanese guide.
The lakes offer a mix of natural and semi-natural environments. Lago Mulino di Cusico, formed from former quarries, has seen a natural repopulation of various animal and floral species, including royal pheasants, seagulls, and mallards. The Idroscalo of Milan is fed by the Lambro river and is surrounded by green spaces. Sempione Park, while urban, provides a significant green lung with an artificial pond and mature trees.
Yes, the area combines natural beauty with historical elements. Zipo Farm, for instance, was a hunting lodge of the Sforzas in the 1400s and features a unique mill. Sempione Park is situated between the historic Castello Sforzesco and the Arco della Pace, and contains the first metal bridge in Italy, moved there in 1930, along with various works of art.
The Idroscalo of Milan is a major hub for recreational and sporting activities. Originally a seaplane landing base, it now features cycle paths, parks, and various facilities. You can find a wakeboard training area and enjoy a wide range of water sports, or simply relax by the freshwater basin.
Absolutely. The Idroscalo of Milan is well-equipped with cycle paths. Additionally, a cycle path leads to Lago Mulino di Cusico from Zibido towards Gaggiano. For more extensive cycling adventures, explore routes like 'From Milan to Pavia on dirt road' or 'Muzza Canal loop'. You can find detailed gravel biking routes in the Gravel biking around San Donato Milanese guide.
Yes, Zipo Farm is a unique spot with a small lake and a Nordic-style house built around an oak tree that was never cut down. Isola delle Rose, with its 700 square meter rose garden and a monument to the resistance, offers a tranquil oasis with stunning views of the garden against the lake.
Visitors appreciate the diverse recreational opportunities and the blend of natural and urban green spaces. Many enjoy the tranquility and wildlife observation at places like Lago Mulino di Cusico, while others are drawn to the active sports and facilities at the Idroscalo of Milan. The urban escape offered by Sempione Park is also highly valued.
Yes, there are mountain biking opportunities in the vicinity. You can find trails such as the 'Idroscalo of Milan – Carengione Wood loop' or the 'Parco di Trenno Equestrian Center – Idroscalo of Milan loop'. These routes offer varying difficulties for MTB enthusiasts. More information can be found in the MTB Trails around San Donato Milanese guide.
The lakes around San Donato Milanese can be enjoyed throughout the year, depending on your preferred activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for walking and cycling, with beautiful foliage changes. Summer is ideal for water sports and outdoor recreation at places like the Idroscalo of Milan. Even in winter, some trails remain accessible for crisp walks, especially in urban parks like Sempione Park.
While specific cafes and pubs are not detailed for every lake, the Idroscalo of Milan is known to have various facilities, including bars. Sempione Park, being an urban park, also offers options for refreshments. Additionally, Zipo Farm allows you to buy excellent local products.
Accessibility can vary by location. Urban parks like Sempione Park generally offer paved paths. The Idroscalo of Milan, with its extensive cycle paths, may also provide accessible routes. However, natural areas like Lago Mulino di Cusico feature dirt roads, which might be challenging for some wheelchairs.


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