Appiano Gentile and Tradate Pine Forest Park

A day out in the countryside between Como and Varese

During a stay in Mozzate, you can spend a few hours in the park or organise a day out in the countryside. It’s a great way to alternate visits to towns and historic sites with the pleasure of walking in the countryside, taking in the landscape at a different pace.

Things to do in the Pineta di Appiano Gentile and Tradate Park

Walking through woods and clearings

The network of footpaths takes you through a variety of environments, including sections through the woods, along the edges of fields and links between villages. In the wooded landscape, you’ll find Scots pines, oaks and chestnut trees.

For your first visit, choose a signposted route of a length suitable for the time you have available. You can spend your walk observing the trees, listening to the sounds of the woodland and noticing the changes that each season brings.

Choose a themed trail

The themed trails offer a way to explore the park through specific topics. Among the options are the Frog Trail, the Tracks Trail and the Water Trail, featuring observation points and information dedicated to the environment.

These are ideal for anyone wishing to combine their walk with some in-depth learning, even with children. Before your visit, check the route’s characteristics, length and starting point.

Exploring the F.A.T.A. trail and the Solar System

The F.A.T.A. trail and the Solar System trail are located within the grounds of the Tradate Science Education Centre, combining a walk through the woods with installations dedicated to nature and celestial bodies.

The Centre also offers educational activities according to a schedule of opening days. If you wish to take part, please check the programme and any booking requirements: walks along the trails and access to the Centre’s activities must be organised separately.

Which routes to choose when setting off from Mozzate

To decide where to start, first identify a specific route and consult the relevant map. Also check for notices regarding roadworks or changes to route accessibility; do not automatically assume that every section is accessible.

If you are short on time, choose a short walk that returns along the same route. For a circular route, however, check all the connections and the total distance before setting off.

Visiting the park with children

Ground conditions vary from one path to another. If you’re using a pushchair or have mobility needs, check the details of the specific route: just because a path is signposted doesn’t mean it’s suitable for everyone.

How to organise your visit

If you’re travelling by car, use the authorised car parks near the entrances. If you prefer to travel by train, some local stations, including Mozzate, offer walking access to the network of footpaths: be sure to factor this section into your plans.

Before setting off, check the weather forecast, take water with you and wear shoes suitable for natural terrain. After rain, some sections may be muddy.

Villa dei Ricordi: a stay in Mozzate near Pineta Park

Villa dei Ricordi is situated in Mozzate and offers a range of apartments, each with its own character, yet all sharing a high standard of care in their interiors and the atmosphere of a historic residence. During your stay, you can alternate between walks in Pineta Park and visits to the surrounding area between Como and Varese, returning at the end of the day to the tranquillity of the villa.