Best lakes around Idroscalo centers on a prominent artificial lake near Milan, Italy, originally constructed as a seaplane airport in the late 1920s. This lake, often referred to as the "Sea of Milan," now serves as a major recreational hub. It measures approximately 2,600 meters in length and is surrounded by a 1.6 million square meter park, featuring a 6.2 km lakeshore ring. The water is spring-fed and certified clean, supporting extensive sports facilities and family-friendly attractions.
Last updated: October 29, 2026
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The running route in Parco Idroscalo in Milan develops along a completely flat loop that surrounds the reservoir, with an official length of approximately 6.3 kilometers. It is one of the most frequented and appreciated routes by Milanese runners thanks to the total absence of cars and the green environment.
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It is possible to run along the ring path of the Idroscalo Park, which includes a scenic and evocative stretch dedicated to the Isola delle Rose within the Milanese park.
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At the Idroscalo you will find a path of over 6 km with ground markings. In short, you are spoiled for choice. Run amidst the greenery just a stone's throw from the city on a 6.3 km circuit. Then you can also take a dip at the lido.
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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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A floating island connected to the mainland by two charming wooden bridges. It covers about 700 square meters and hosts over 15 varieties of roses. At the top of the island's staircase is the monument to the Resistance by Mario Robaudi.
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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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L'Isola delle Rose is a picturesque islet and rose garden located within the Idroscalo park in Milan. It is a romantic oasis of 700 square meters surrounded by the lake's waters, where over 15 different varieties of roses bloom.
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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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Idroscalo is a major hub for water sports. You can enjoy canoeing, rowing, kayaking, sailing, open-water swimming, water skiing, wakeboarding, and even surfing thanks to an artificial wave facility. It's also Milan's only Olympic facility for canoeing and boating.
Yes, the lake is encircled by a 6.2 km (about 4.2 miles) lakeshore ring, which is very popular for running and cycling. The Lido dell'Idroscalo also features a pedestrian and cycle track perfect for these activities. You can find various cycling routes, including traffic-free options, in the area. For example, check out the Traffic-free bike rides around Idroscalo guide.
Absolutely. Idroscalo is very family-friendly, offering attractions like EuroPark Idroscalo, an amusement park with over 35 rides, and Acquaplay Water Park, Italy's largest indoor water park. There's also a Children's Village with workshops and games, and designated picnic spots. The Idroscalo of Milan is listed as family-friendly, as is the Isola delle Rose.
Yes, Idroscalo has designated areas for dogs, making it a suitable place to visit with your canine companions.
The warmer months are ideal for water activities like swimming, as the water is certified clean and a dedicated beach area, "Milano beach," is available. However, the park is open year-round, with winter opening hours from November 1st to March 31st (08:00 to 17:00), still offering opportunities for land-based sports and enjoying the landscape.
Yes, swimming is allowed. The water in Idroscalo is spring-fed and certified as clean by ARPA (Regional Environmental Protection Agency) and the CAP Research Centre, making it suitable for swimming. During warmer months, a dedicated beach area known as "Milano beach" provides facilities like sun umbrellas, deckchairs, and lifeguards.
Idroscalo is conveniently located near Milan Linate Airport. While specific public transport routes aren't detailed here, its proximity to the airport suggests good connectivity. You can also find various hiking routes that start from bus stations around Idroscalo, as detailed in the Hikes from bus stations around Idroscalo guide.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities around Idroscalo. You can find easy to moderate trails, including loops around the lake and through nearby woods. For example, the Family-friendly hikes around Idroscalo guide lists routes like the "Wakeparadise Milan Idroscalo loop" and the "Carengione Wood loop".
Idroscalo has a unique history, originally constructed in the late 1920s as a seaplane airport. Today, it serves as a cultural hub, hosting concerts and DJ sets. You can also visit the Museum of Young Artists - Idroscalo, Milan, which is an open-air public exhibition space dedicated to young talent, blending traditional sculpture with contemporary environmental art.
Yes, Idroscalo is well-equipped with various bars and restaurants, providing options for refreshments and meals during your visit.
The Isola delle Rose is a tranquil oasis featuring a 700 square meter rose garden with about fifteen different varieties of roses. It also hosts a monument to the resistance, offering a beautiful view of the colorful garden against the blue backdrop of the lake.
The lakeshore ring around Idroscalo is approximately 6.2 km (about 4.2 miles) long, making it ideal for a complete walk, run, or cycle. One highlight mentions a 6.6 km route (9,500-steps) between greenery, sports, and sculptures.


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