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: June 28, 2026
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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 is a large artificial lake of 1.6 km² located between the municipalities of Segrate and Peschiera Borromeo, historically known as the "sea of Milan". Originally built in 1928 as a seaplane base, it is today one of the main public oases dedicated to sport, relaxation, and major music events in Lombardy.
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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 Idroscalo of Milan is a large artificial lake and public park located between the municipalities of Segrate and Peschiera Borromeo, historically known as the "sea of Milan". Born in the late 1920s as a seaplane base, it was later converted into a sports and recreational center. Today it represents one of the main green areas and leisure spaces of the Metropolitan City of Milan.
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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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An oasis of peace in the heart of the city. With its rose varieties imported from Germany and the evocative climbing roses surrounding the steel gates, this corner of nature offers the perfect retreat to immerse yourself in beauty and tranquility.
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A tour of the Idroscalo is always a lot of fun, especially when there's no traffic...with an unusual view!
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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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