What to do in and around the lake of Viverone
Viverone Lake, located in the Piedmont region of northern Italy, offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. Whether you're into nature, sports, or exploring historical sites, here’s a comprehensive list of things to do in and around the lake:Next to In addition to our culinary experiences, we at Sapore Piemontese are delighted to assist you in booking any of the following activities.
Golf Clubs
Golf Clubs Near Viverone Several golf clubs are located within a 30- to 60-minute drive from Viverone, offering excellent facilities and scenic courses. Golf Club Biella "Le Betulle" Location: Magnano, about 20 km (25-minute drive) from Viverone Lake. Highlights: One of Italy's top golf courses, consistently ranked among the best in Europe. Designed by British architect John Morrison, it’s an 18-hole, par 73 course. The beautiful, natural landscape with views of the Alps makes it a favorite for golfers. Facilities: Clubhouse, pro shop, and restaurant. Cavaglià Golf Club Location: Cavaglià, about 15 km (15-minute drive) from Viverone. Highlights: A scenic 18-hole course, par 68, ideal for both beginners and experienced golfers. It also has a driving range and offers golf lessons. Facilities: Clubhouse, driving range, restaurant, and a 4-star hotel with spa facilities. Golf Club San Giovanni dei Boschi Location: Sala Biellese, around 25 km (30-minute drive) from the lake. Highlights: A charming 9-hole course set in a peaceful natural environment. It's ideal for a more relaxed round of golf. Facilities: Clubhouse and restaurant.
Watersports
Swimming: The lake has several beaches where you can relax and take a swim in its clean waters. Sailing and Windsurfing: The steady winds make the lake ideal for sailing and windsurfing. There are schools and rental services for beginners and experienced sailors alike. Canoeing and Kayaking: You can rent kayaks or canoes to explore the lake at your own pace. Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): A relaxing way to enjoy the lake’s peaceful atmosphere while getting a workout. Boat Rentals: Rent small motorboats or paddleboats for a leisurely ride on the water.
Cycling and Hiking
Lake Viverone Loop: There’s a scenic 10 km trail that circles the lake, perfect for cycling or hiking. The trail offers beautiful views of the water, vineyards, and the surrounding countryside. Explore the Serra d’Ivrea Ridge: The morainic ridge behind the lake provides numerous trails for hiking and mountain biking. It’s a great place for nature lovers and those looking for panoramic views of the lake and nearby Alps.
Historical and Cultural
Pieve di San Pietro (Church of Saint Peter): Located near the lake, this small Romanesque church dates back to the 12th century and is one of the most significant historical sites in the area. Viverone Archaeological Park: The lake area has archaeological significance, with discoveries of prehistoric stilt houses (palafitte), which are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can explore these ancient remains and learn about the early human settlements around the lake. Castello di Roppolo: Just a few kilometers from the lake, this castle offers stunning views and has a fascinating history. You can tour the castle and its vineyards, as well as enjoy wine tastings. Ivrea: A short drive away, Ivrea is a charming town known for its industrial heritage and as the site of the famous Battle of the Oranges during Carnival.
Festivals and Events
Fiera di San Michele: A local fair that takes place in the nearby town of Roppolo in late September, offering local food, wines, and entertainment. Lake Festivals: In summer, the lake hosts various cultural and music events, including fireworks and outdoor concerts. Ask us about all Festivals in Viverone
Explore Nearby Towns
Biella: This town is about 30 minutes from the lake and is known for its beautiful medieval architecture and outdoor markets. Parco Burcina Natural Reserve: Located near Biella, this park is great for nature walks and features beautiful gardens with rhododendrons and other exotic plants. Sacred Mount of Oropa (Sacro Monte di Oropa): A UNESCO World Heritage site, this religious complex is set high in the mountains, offering spiritual, historical, and natural experiences. You can also enjoy hiking in the surrounding area.
Ski resorts
Viverone Lake is also within reach of some excellent ski resorts in the Italian Alps, making it possible to enjoy skiing during the winter months. Oropa Ski Resort Location: About 35 km (45-minute drive) from Viverone, near Biella. Altitude: 1,200 - 2,388 meters. Highlights: Located near the famous Sanctuary of Oropa, this small ski resort offers downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. It’s a good choice for beginners and families, with a few slopes but incredible views. Other Activities: In addition to skiing, visitors can explore hiking trails, visit the sanctuary, and enjoy the winter landscapes. Alagna Valsesia (Monterosa Ski) Location: Around 90 km (1.5-hour drive) from Viverone. Altitude: 1,191 - 3,275 meters. Highlights: Part of the Monterosa Ski area, Alagna Valsesia offers access to a huge ski area that spans across multiple valleys. Known for its off-piste skiing and more challenging runs, it’s perfect for experienced skiers. However, there are slopes suitable for all levels. Facilities: Ski schools, rentals, restaurants, and après-ski options. Gressoney-La-Trinité (Monterosa Ski) Location: Around 95 km (1.5-hour drive) from Viverone. Altitude: 1,350 - 3,275 meters. Highlights: Also part of the Monterosa Ski area, this resort offers a wide variety of runs for skiers of all levels. It's known for its scenic routes, cross-country trails, and alpine skiing. Facilities: Modern lifts, ski schools, rentals, and restaurants. Champorcher Ski Resort Location: About 85 km (1.5-hour drive) from Viverone, in the Aosta Valley. Altitude: 1,400 - 2,500 meters. Highlights: A smaller, less crowded resort perfect for families and intermediate skiers. It offers alpine skiing, snowshoeing, and a friendly atmosphere with stunning mountain views.
Fishing
Fishing at Viverone Lake is a popular and rewarding activity, thanks to the variety of fish species and the serene natural surroundings. Here’s a guide to fishing in Viverone: Fish Species The lake is home to a diverse range of fish species, making it suitable for various types of fishing, whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner. Some common species include: Pike Perch Carp Trout Eel Zander Tench Fishing Types Shore Fishing: There are numerous spots along the lake’s shore where you can set up for a relaxing day of fishing. The surrounding reed beds and quiet areas provide excellent habitats for fish. Boat Fishing: You can rent a boat to explore deeper waters and more remote fishing spots, increasing your chances of catching larger fish. Both rowing and motorboats are available for hire. Night Fishing: Night fishing is popular on Viverone Lake, especially for carp and eel. Be sure to check local regulations for any restrictions on nighttime fishing. Fishing Permits A fishing permit (licenza di pesca) is required to fish in Viverone Lake. You can obtain a daily or seasonal permit from local authorities or designated shops near the lake. Always ensure you are aware of the specific fishing regulations, including size limits and catch quotas, which are in place to preserve the ecosystem. Best Fishing Seasons Spring and Autumn: These are the most productive seasons, as fish are more active and closer to the surface. Summer: Fishing early in the morning or late in the evening tends to be more successful due to the cooler temperatures. Winter: While less common, winter fishing can still yield good results, particularly for pike and perch.
Camping and Picnics
Lakeside Camping: There are a few campsites around Viverone Lake, offering a more immersive experience in nature. You can camp by the water and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. Picnic Spots: Several areas around the lake are ideal for picnics. Bring your own food or purchase from local delis and enjoy a meal by the lake.
F1 and motorsports
If you're staying near Viverone Lake and are interested in Formula 1 or motorsports, the closest major event is the Italian Grand Prix at the Autodromo Nazionale Monza. Here’s more information about F1 and motorsports opportunities near Viverone: 1. Italian Grand Prix at Monza (Autodromo Nazionale Monza) Location: Monza, Lombardy (approximately 120 km / 1.5 hours from Viverone). Event: The Formula 1 Italian Grand Prix is held annually at the Monza circuit, typically in September. It's one of the most iconic and oldest F1 circuits, known for its high-speed straights and passionate fan base, especially for Ferrari. Experience: Monza is a must-visit for F1 enthusiasts, offering the chance to witness F1 races in an electric atmosphere, tour the circuit, and enjoy a range of motorsport events throughout the year. Other Events: In addition to F1, Monza hosts endurance races, touring cars, and other motorsport competitions. 2. Circuito di Torino (Turin) Location: About 80 km (1-hour drive) from Viverone. Overview: Though primarily known for hosting smaller-scale events, the Circuito di Torino sometimes holds amateur racing, karting, and track days where visitors can participate or spectate. While it's not an F1 venue, it’s a good stop for motorsport fans looking for some local action. 3. Mugello Circuit (Autodromo Internazionale del Mugello) Location: Near Florence, Tuscany (about 4 hours from Viverone). Overview: Though a bit farther, Mugello is another famous motorsport venue in Italy. Owned by Ferrari, it often hosts MotoGP and occasionally Formula 1 events, including the F1 Tuscan Grand Prix held in 2020. Experience: While not as close as Monza, Mugello offers a high-quality racing experience in the picturesque Tuscan countryside. 4. Go-Karting Near Viverone For a more hands-on motorsport experience near Viverone, try one of the nearby go-kart tracks: Kartodromo di Cavaglià: Located just 15 km from Viverone, this karting circuit offers fun for both adults and children. It’s a great place to get a taste of racing yourself, with rental karts and regular events. Kartodromo Cerrina: About 40 km away, another great option for go-karting and competitive fun in a controlled environment.
Day trips
Day Trips to Surrounding Areas Turin: About an hour away, Turin is a great destination for a day trip, with its rich history, art, museums (like the Egyptian Museum), and vibrant culture. Aosta Valley: You can venture into this alpine region for skiing in the winter or hiking and sightseeing in the summer. It’s about an hour and a half drive from the lake. Viverone Lake and its surrounding region offer a balance of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities that appeal to a wide range of travelers. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, there’s plenty to enjoy here!
The Via Francigena
The Via Francigena is an ancient pilgrimage route that stretches from Canterbury in England to Rome in Italy, crossing through France and Switzerland. It dates back to the early medieval period and was a key route used by pilgrims traveling to Rome, which was one of the major pilgrimage destinations of the time, along with Santiago de Compostela in Spain and Jerusalem. The route covers approximately 2,000 kilometers (1,240 miles) and passes through a variety of landscapes, including English countryside, the vineyards of France, the Jura mountains, the Alps, and the rolling hills of Piedmont in Italy stage 7 is Viverone. Along the way, pilgrims historically visited churches, monasteries, and other religious sites. The Via Francigena gained its name from the Latin word "Francigena," meaning "from France" or "road to the land of the Franks." Its most well-known documentation comes from Sigeric the Serious, the Archbishop of Canterbury in the late 10th century. Sigeric made a pilgrimage to Rome to receive his pallium (a religious vestment), and he documented the 79 stages of his journey on the way back, providing a detailed record of the route, including stops at inns, monasteries, and towns.
Truffle hunting
At Sapore Piemontese, we invite guests to join us on an unforgettable autumn tradition—truffle hunting in the picturesque hills of Piedmont. Led by Luca, our seasoned truffle master, and Bella, his sharp-nosed Lagotto Romagnolo, guests follow through misty oak groves in search of the prized white truffle. As Bella finds a hidden gem beneath the soil, excitement fills the air. The truffle’s rich aroma is a promise of the evening’s feast, where it will be freshly shaved over hand-crafted dishes. More than a culinary experience, it’s a connection to the land’s rare, ancient treasure.
Wines of Viverone
Viverone, is surrounded by rolling hills that are ideal for grape cultivation. The area is part of the Canavese wine region, known for producing high-quality wines, especially from indigenous grape varieties. Here are some key wines and aspects of the Viverone area: 1. Erbaluce di Caluso DOCG: Erbaluce is the signature white grape variety grown around Viverone. It produces a variety of wines, from dry whites to sparkling and sweet passito wines. Erbaluce di Caluso DOCG is known for its bright acidity, delicate floral notes, and refreshing citrus flavors. It pairs beautifully with seafood, fresh cheeses, and light pasta dishes. The sweet Erbaluce Passito is particularly prized, made from dried grapes, giving it intense aromas of honey, apricots, and dried fruits. 2. Canavese Rosso: The red wines of the region are often blends of Nebbiolo, Barbera, and Bonarda grapes, creating structured wines with a balance of fruit and earthiness. Canavese Rosso DOC is versatile and pairs well with the hearty local cuisine, such as game meats, risottos, and aged cheeses. 3. Nebbiolo: While Viverone is not in the heart of the famous Barolo and Barbaresco regions, Nebbiolo is still grown here and produces elegant, more approachable wines. These wines are slightly lighter but still have the characteristic tannins and complexity of the Nebbiolo grape. Wine Culture and Tourism: Viverone’s proximity to both the lake and the vineyards makes it a popular destination for wine lovers looking for scenic beauty alongside excellent wines. At Sapore Piemontese we offer winerie tours and tastings, giving our guests the chance to explore the region’s viticultural traditions.