Contemporary Luxury in the Heart of Northern Italy

Nestled on the eastern side of the Monte Rosa massif (~2 hours away), Macugnaga is a picturesque alpine village that offers a peaceful, less-crowded ski experience. It has over 30 km of ski runs divided into two areas: Belvedere for beginners and Monte Moro for more advanced skiers. Macugnaga is famed for its stunning views of Monte Rosa's east face and its authentic mountain atmosphere. Families love it for the relaxed pace, the mix of gentle and challenging slopes, and the rustic lodges serving local cuisine. It's an ideal spot if you prefer a quieter resort rich in scenery.

Just over the border in Switzerland (roughly 3 hours away via a scenic mountain route) lies St. Moritz, one of the most iconic ski resorts in the world. This Swiss resort is synonymous with luxury and winter sports history. It's a glamorous alpine town with a vibrant village center, upscale shops and restaurants, and absolutely top-notch skiing. The St. Moritz ski region spans three main ski areas with a huge variety of terrain (around 350 km of pistes), all set against a backdrop of spectacular high-Alpine scenery and plenty of sunny blue-sky days. Known as the cradle of winter tourism (it hosted the Winter Olympics twice and has been a ski destination since the 1860s), St. Moritz offers much more than downhill skiing – families can enjoy ice skating on frozen lakes, famous annual events like snow polo and horse races on the snow, sledding, and world-class ski schools for the kids. It is a pricier destination, but many consider it a must-visit for the bucket list, given its glitz, glamour, and excellent skiing.

Within the city, don't miss the Palazzo Estense Gardens, often dubbed the "Little Versailles" of Varese, for a tranquil stroll. These 18th-century manicured gardens – with their symmetry, fountains, and flowerbeds – are among the most beautiful in northern Italy. They reflect Varese's identity as a "garden city," offering a quiet oasis right in the center of town. Another gem is Villa Toeplitz Park, with its ornate fountains and botanical variety – perfect for a picnic or reading under a tree. For more adventurous nature lovers, the nearby Campo dei Fiori Regional Park offers hiking trails through forests and up to panoramic viewpoints (including an astronomical observatory and abandoned World War I fortifications for history buffs).

Motorsport fans will be delighted to know that the legendary Autodromo Nazionale di Monza – nicknamed the "Temple of Speed" – is only about an hour's drive from Varese. This historic circuit hosts the Formula One Italian Grand Prix each year, along with other exciting racing events, making it a pilgrimage site for car lovers. Families can plan a day trip to watch world-class racing amid the electric atmosphere of Monza's grandstands. Even when there's no major race, the Autodromo often offers track days and driving experiences where you (or your thrill-seeking teens) can drive high-performance cars on the famed track. In fact, Monza is known as one of the fastest circuits in the world – track days here let participants push Ferraris, Lamborghinis and the like to speeds over 270 km/h on the long straights (in a safe, controlled setting). Such experiences are perfect even for families looking for an unforgettable outing or a special gift experience. Whether you choose to get behind the wheel or simply tour the paddocks and museum, a trip to Monza is a unique recreational option that sets Varese apart from many other locations. Imagine spending one weekend skiing in the Alps and the next hearing the roar of Formula 1 engines – both are part of the lifestyle when living in this region.

Beyond racing, the Varese area supports a rich sporting culture. The city has facilities for tennis, swimming, and an active cycling community (the Lake Varese bike trail is very popular). Varese's own basketball team has a storied history, and local kids can join various sports clubs. The nearby lakes (Maggiore, Lugano, Como) offer sailing clubs and even rowing – the Italian rowing championships have been held on Lake Varese, highlighting its suitability for water sports. On weekends, families often take advantage of the short drive to Lake Maggiore's beaches and adventure parks, or visit the Safari Park in Pombia (a drive-through zoo and amusement park about 40 minutes away) for a fun day trip with the kids. In winter, if you want a break from skiing, you can find outdoor skating rinks or indoor sports arenas in town. Year-round, Varese's surroundings provide outlets for virtually every family hobby – from mountain biking and horseback riding in summer, to mushroom foraging and nature photography in the fall.