Traversata del Trentin #2 — Cadrezzate

Turning off the main road toward Cadrezzate, the landscape shifts from the bustle of the Varese province to the quiet, shaded slopes that frame Lake Monate. The first glimpse of the water from the car window reveals a distinct stillness; because motorboats are strictly prohibited, the surface often mirrors the surrounding greenery without a ripple. This basin is fed by subterranean springs and the Rio Freddo, a hydrogeological feature that ensures the water clarity for which the lake is known. As you head toward the shoreline, the proximity of the prehistoric site becomes clear: the Sabbione settlement, where remnants of 3,600-year-old pile dwellings lie submerged just 50 meters off the bank at shallow depths of two to six meters. Swimming here is a passage through layers of local history, with the silhouette of the medieval-origin crenellated tower of Villa Baroni acting as a constant reference point against the horizon.

Race day and environment

Scheduled for August 2nd, the race offers 2000m and 3500m distances, with an entry fee between 35 and 40 EUR covering the logistics of the event, including timing, safety management, and a pasta party. The race environment is characterized by the absence of motorized waves, providing a stable, predictable course. While the lake's ecosystem has evolved—swimmers may occasionally spot non-native species like largemouth bass or wels catfish—the primary focus remains on the historical and natural setting. Participants will find the 2026 edition follows the tradition established by other local events, such as the Traversata del Trentin held just one week prior, though this specific stage offers its own distinct atmosphere. The presence of the Villa Solferino, built in 1859 to mark the site of the famous battle, adds another architectural marker for those navigating the buoys. Whether completing the 2000m or the longer 3500m course, the experience is defined by the depth of the water and the archaeological heritage beneath.