Did you know Rho is full of hidden treasures? Within a 15-kilometer radius of the city, you’ll be amazed by the artistic and natural wonders you can explore.
Today, we’re focusing on parks and historic villas. Around Rho, you can discover natural marvels such as the Parco delle Groane and the Parco Lombardo del Ticino, just two of the many green areas enriching the region. Similarly, architectural gems like Villa Litta and Villa Arconati, both splendid 17th-century residences, offer fascinating visits just a stone’s throw from the city.
This area holds many surprises and is well worth exploring. Let’s discover some highlights within 15 kilometers of Rho.
Have you heard of the two villas just 10 minutes from Rho?
Villa Litta: the legacy of the Borromeo family
Known as Villa Visconti Borromeo Litta, this villa was conceived in 1585 by Count Pirro I, inspired by the Medici villas of Tuscany. It is celebrated for its elegance and the vast park that surrounds it, renowned for its water features and decorative elements.
The villa’s park is a masterpiece, boasting a magnificent nymphaeum that remains fully functional to this day. This intricate water architecture amazes visitors with its complexity and beauty, creating a magical and unique atmosphere.
Strolling along the garden paths lined with trees, citrus groves, and greenhouses, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a fairytale. The fountains’ water displays reflect sunlight in myriad hues, adding to the villa’s enchantment.
Villa Litta is not just a place of historical beauty but also a vibrant cultural hub. Numerous events and exhibitions are held throughout the year, transforming every visit into a unique experience enriched by concerts, performances, and art displays.
A touch of Paris 10 minutes from Rho: Villa Arconati
Nicknamed the “Little Versailles of Italy,” Villa Arconati is one of Lombardy’s most charming historic residences. Located just 10 minutes from Rho’s center, it was restored beginning in 1610 by Galeazzo Arconati as a countryside retreat.
Set within the Parco delle Groane, the villa astounds visitors with its richly decorated interiors and cultural spaces, particularly its impressive library.
The villa’s gardens are a true masterpiece, showcasing a rare example of a French-style garden in Italy. Strolling along its tree-lined avenues and fountains, you’ll encounter classical statues and hidden corners that recount tales of a glorious past.
Fun fact: You can enhance your visit with the “Villa Arconati Garden App,” available for free on Google Play and the App Store. This interactive guide reveals the garden’s secrets in a new and exclusive way.
An atmosphere full of charm and history awaits you in these historic Lombard residences near Rho. Whether you choose to focus on the frescoed interiors or the water features and enchanting landscapes of the gardens, both options promise unforgettable experiences.
Bucolic nature just steps from Rho
If you love nature or need a bit of relaxation, an afternoon at the park might be just what you’re looking for. Take a stroll through the Parco delle Groane, where trails wind through woods, waterways, and fields.
Here, the sound of birdsong and the rustling of leaves in the wind create a natural symphony that invites reflection. With paths suitable for both biking and walking, it’s the perfect spot for any nature lover.
Did you know that just 8 kilometers from Rho lies a protected WWF oasis? The Bosco di Vanzago is a natural reserve of the Lombardy Region and a Natura 2000 site. This 200-hectare area of forest and wetlands features a wildlife recovery center, with the roe deer as its emblem. The oasis is open for visits by reservation.
Let yourself be surprised by the beauty of this area and enjoy the pleasure of exploring, dreaming, and savoring every moment.
Looking for more ideas and tips for a day trip in nature?
Check out “Discovering the lakes near Rho” for more inspiration!
