Ranco
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Latest page update: 9 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The lakeside town of Ranco is situated in the Province of Varese, on the shores of Lake Maggiore. It has a population of around 1,300 residents and is located a distance of 67 kilometres north west of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.
Nearby places of interest include Angera, Ispra, Cadrezzate, Lake Monate and Sesto Calende. |
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What People Ask About Ranco
Is Ranco worth visiting?
What can you do in Ranco?
How do you get to Ranco?
Is there a beach in Ranco?
When is the best time to visit Ranco?
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Ranco Overview
Ranco, located in the Lombardy region, is a charming village set on the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty, Ranco provides a tranquil escape for visitors looking to relax and explore the natural surroundings. The village’s traditional architecture, narrow streets, and lakeside location make it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and outdoor activities.
Ranco is famous for its lakeside promenade, where visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the water, taking in the breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore and the nearby hills. The village is home to the Chiesa di San Carlo, a small church with historical significance. For outdoor enthusiasts, Ranco offers several hiking and cycling trails that lead into the surrounding countryside, providing panoramic views of the lake and the mountains. The village’s serene setting, combined with its natural beauty and proximity to larger towns, makes Ranco a perfect base for exploring Lake Maggiore and the Lombardy region.
Ranco is famous for its lakeside promenade, where visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the water, taking in the breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore and the nearby hills. The village is home to the Chiesa di San Carlo, a small church with historical significance. For outdoor enthusiasts, Ranco offers several hiking and cycling trails that lead into the surrounding countryside, providing panoramic views of the lake and the mountains. The village’s serene setting, combined with its natural beauty and proximity to larger towns, makes Ranco a perfect base for exploring Lake Maggiore and the Lombardy region.
Top Things to Do in Ranco
- Lakeside Promenade and Harbour: Ranco is a small town on the south-eastern shore of Lake Maggiore, with a peaceful promenade offering wide views across the water to the Piedmontese hills. The lakeside includes a public park, small beach area, and a marina, making it an inviting spot for swimming, boating, and lakeside walks.
- Chiesa di San Martino: This parish church stands in the historic centre of Ranco and features a simple façade and traditional bell tower. The interior includes devotional artworks and a quiet, reflective atmosphere that reflects the town’s small-scale, close-knit character.
- Museo dei Trasporti Ogliari: Located on the edge of the town, this privately run museum is dedicated to the history of transport, with exhibits ranging from vintage trains and trams to bicycles and early vehicles. The collection is displayed in open-air and covered spaces, offering a unique attraction for visitors of all ages.
- Walking Trails and Nature Observation: Ranco is surrounded by gentle hills and wooded paths that form part of the Lago Maggiore nature corridor. Walking trails lead through meadows and forests with scenic views over the lake, and the area is popular for birdwatching and photography.
- Day Trip to Angera: Just 10 minutes away by car, Angera offers the impressive Rocca Borromea, historic streets, and ferry access across the lake. It complements Ranco’s quieter setting with additional cultural landmarks and services.
Comune di Ranco
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Province: Varese
Region: Lombardy Population: 1,241 (in 2024 - source) Size: 6 km² Elevation: 214 metres Travel facilities: ferry port Close by: Angera, Ispra, Cadrezzate, Lake Monate, Sesto Calende |
Where to Stay in Ranco - My Recommended Accommodation
- Hotel Ristorante Belvedere Located directly on the lakefront, this historic hotel offers elegant rooms with balconies overlooking Lake Maggiore, and an on-site restaurant known for fresh fish dishes. Guests appreciate the peaceful setting, panoramic views, and proximity to the small harbour and promenade. €€€ (high-end)
- Il Sole di Ranco Situated in an elevated position with sweeping lake views, this boutique hotel features refined rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and a garden with pool. Visitors enjoy the attentive service, scenic terrace, and quiet location just a short walk from the lakeside. €€€ (high-end)
- B&B La Casa di Dado Set in a residential area about five minutes’ walk from the lake, this bed and breakfast offers cosy rooms and a garden for guests to relax in. Guests value the warm hospitality, homemade breakfast, and walking distance to restaurants and the lakeshore. €€ (mid-range)
- Agriturismo Il Lago dei Cigni Located just outside Ranco in the countryside, this agriturismo offers simple rooms in a natural setting with a small lake on the property. Visitors enjoy the rural atmosphere, friendly hosts, and short drive to the lakefront and surrounding villages. €€ (mid-range)
- Casa Vacanze Ranco A self-catering holiday home in the centre of the village, just a short stroll from the waterfront. This accommodation includes a kitchen, private garden, and lake-view terrace. Guests appreciate the privacy, space, and central location. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat in Ranco - My Recommended Restaurants
- Ristorante Il Sole di Ranco: Located in a historic villa overlooking Lake Maggiore, this refined restaurant is known for its elegant setting and creative Italian cuisine. The menu includes seasonal ingredients, fresh fish, and carefully presented dishes. With its panoramic terrace and professional service, it's ideal for special occasions. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Trattoria del Lago: Situated near the lakeside, this traditional trattoria offers a menu focused on local specialities and classic Italian comfort food. Dishes include polenta, risotto, and meat-based mains, served in a warm and informal setting with lake views. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Osteria La Vecchia Scuola: Found in a quieter part of the town, this small osteria is set in a converted schoolhouse and offers a short seasonal menu based on local produce. The rustic interior and friendly atmosphere make it a good choice for a quiet meal with regional flavours. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria Ristorante Bella Vista: Also in Ranco, this casual pizzeria and restaurant offers a wide selection of pizzas, pasta dishes, and grilled meats. The name reflects its position overlooking the lake, with outdoor seating available during the summer months. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Bar Trattoria La Riva: Located close to the water, this simple trattoria serves light meals, snacks, and traditional dishes in an easy-going atmosphere. It's well suited to a casual lunch or early evening meal after a walk along the lakeside. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
Ranco Gallery
Places close to Ranco
- Angera (approx. 5 km south of Ranco): Located on the southern shore of Lake Maggiore, Angera is home to the impressive Rocca di Angera, a medieval castle that offers stunning views over the lake. The town also features a charming historic centre and a lovely lakeside promenade, making it a peaceful spot for a relaxing day out.
- Ispra (approx. 10 km southwest of Ranco): A small, tranquil town on the shores of Lake Maggiore, Ispra is perfect for nature lovers. The town is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, with plenty of opportunities for walking, cycling, and birdwatching. The nearby Parco Naturale della Campo dei Fiori offers scenic hiking trails with stunning views.
- Sesto Calende (approx. 15 km southeast of Ranco): A quaint town located on the southern shore of Lake Maggiore, Sesto Calende is ideal for those looking to enjoy a peaceful lakeside setting. The town boasts a historic centre, a lakeside promenade, and several outdoor activities, including boat trips on the lake and hiking in the nearby Parco del Ticino.
- Laveno-Mombello (approx. 25 km northwest of Ranco): Situated on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, Laveno-Mombello is known for its beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The Laveno Funicular offers breathtaking panoramic views, while the lakeside promenade is perfect for a relaxing walk. The town is also a popular starting point for hiking and boating activities.
- Varese (approx. 25 km east of Ranco): A charming town surrounded by the Campo dei Fiori mountain range, Varese is known for its lush parks and historic villas, such as Villa Panza and Villa Toeplitz. The town offers a range of cultural attractions, including scenic walking trails, charming streets filled with cafes and shops, and panoramic views from the surrounding hills.
How to get to Ranco
By Rail: Ranco does not have its own train station. The nearest railway station is in Sesto Calende, approximately 8 kilometres to the south, served by Trenord regional services on the Milan–Domodossola line. The journey from Milan to Sesto Calende takes about 50 minutes. From there, Ranco can be reached by taxi or local bus, although bus services may be limited. Another nearby station is Taino–Angera, about 10 kilometres away, with similar regional connections.
By Road: Ranco is located on the south-eastern shore of Lake Maggiore, in the province of Varese. It is around 70 kilometres north-west of Milan and 25 kilometres west of Varese. The drive from Milan takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes via the A8 motorway and SP69. From Varese, the journey takes around 35 minutes. Public parking is available near the lakefront and throughout the village.
By Ferry: Ranco has a small pier but is not currently served by regular Navigazione Laghi ferry services. The nearest active ferry terminals are in Angera (approximately 10 kilometres north) and Arona across the lake in Piedmont. From these towns, passenger boats provide connections to destinations including Stresa, Intra, and the Borromean Islands. Vehicle ferry services are available from Laveno-Mombello to Intra, located further north on the lake.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Ranco is located on the south-eastern shore of Lake Maggiore, in the province of Varese. It is around 70 kilometres north-west of Milan and 25 kilometres west of Varese. The drive from Milan takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes via the A8 motorway and SP69. From Varese, the journey takes around 35 minutes. Public parking is available near the lakefront and throughout the village.
By Ferry: Ranco has a small pier but is not currently served by regular Navigazione Laghi ferry services. The nearest active ferry terminals are in Angera (approximately 10 kilometres north) and Arona across the lake in Piedmont. From these towns, passenger boats provide connections to destinations including Stresa, Intra, and the Borromean Islands. Vehicle ferry services are available from Laveno-Mombello to Intra, located further north on the lake.
Nearest International Airports:
- Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Malpensa): Located around 25 kilometres south-west of Ranco, the drive takes approximately 35 minutes. Taxis and car hire are available at the airport, with train connections possible via Sesto Calende.
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Situated approximately 85 kilometres south-east of Ranco, the drive takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Travellers can also take a train from Milan Centrale to Sesto Calende and continue by road.
- Milan Bergamo Airport (Aeroporto di Bergamo-Orio al Serio): About 115 kilometres east of Ranco, the drive takes around 2 hours. Public transport involves travel via Milan and Gallarate, then continuing to Sesto Calende and Ranco.
