0
0
The Lago Maggiore region is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, charming lakeside towns, and relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle. But beyond the beaches and promenades lies another side of the lake — a world of wild animals, forest adventures, and pure fun for families.
Two attractions stand out above all others: the Safari Park Pombia, Italy’s largest wildlife park near Novara, and the Wonderwood Hochseilgarten Adventure Park above Trarego Viggiona, high above the lake.
Together, they create the perfect combination for an unforgettable family day trip. From roaring lions to treetop zip lines, both parks capture the imagination of children and adults alike — and both are easily reached from Cannobio or any camping Lago Maggiore site.
Stop 1 – Safari Park Pombia: The Wild Side of Lake Maggiore
A Real Safari in Northern Italy
Just an hour’s drive south of Cannobio, near the town of Pombia, the Safari Park Lago Maggiore (officially Safari Park Pombia) offers one of the most unique animal experiences in Europe.
Spread across 400,000 square metres, it’s both a drive-through safari and a traditional zoo, home to over 1,000 animals from every continent.
Families can enter the park in their own car or on a safari bus, following a 5-kilometre trail that winds through open habitats. Lions bask under acacia trees, giraffes wander freely near zebras, and hippos wallow in pools while antelopes graze nearby. It’s as close to an African safari as you can get without leaving Italy.
Animals and Experiences
The park is divided into two main areas:
- The Drive-Through Safari – The heart of the experience, where you stay in your vehicle as you pass lions, rhinos, camels, ostriches, and tigers. Every zone represents a different ecosystem — from the African savannah to the Asian plains.
- The Pedestrian Area – A huge zoo section where you can walk among shaded paths, playgrounds, and exhibits. Here you’ll meet lemurs, parrots, reptiles, and penguins. The educational centre offers interactive displays explaining conservation and animal care.
There’s also a small amusement park zone with rides for children, picnic areas, and restaurants serving pizza, pasta, and gelato — because no Italian day trip is complete without ice cream!
Highlights for Families
- 🦁 Big Cats: Lions, leopards, and white tigers can be observed safely from your car.
- 🦒 Giraffe Feeding: At specific times, visitors can feed giraffes leaves from a viewing platform.
- 🐘 Educational Shows: Daily presentations introduce visitors to animal behaviour and conservation.
- 🎠 Fun Fair Zone: Carousels, mini roller coasters, and playgrounds for younger children.
- ☕ Family Facilities: Picnic tables, cafés, and rest areas throughout the park.
Useful Information
- Location: Pombia (Province of Novara), about 10 km from Arona and 1 h 15 min from Cannobio.
- Opening: March to November (check official website for schedules).
- Tickets: Available online or at the gate. Family discounts and combo passes offered.
- Parking: Free and extensive.
- Tip: Arrive early in the morning when animals are most active and queues are shorter.
A visit to Safari Park Pombia is more than entertainment — it’s an educational adventure in nature, especially for children growing up in cities.
Stop 2 – Wonderwood Adventure Park: Nature, Freedom and Adrenaline
High Above the Lake
After meeting the world’s wild animals, it’s time to discover the wild side of yourself.
Drive back toward Cannobio, then take the scenic mountain road to Trarego Viggiona — a charming alpine village overlooking the Lago Maggiore.
Here, surrounded by pine forests and fresh mountain air, lies the Wonderwood Adventure Park, one of Italy’s most scenic and sustainable high-ropes courses.
A Forest Playground for All Ages
Wonderwood Lago Maggiore is designed for everyone — from toddlers to adults.
Suspended platforms, hanging bridges, and ziplines wind through the forest canopy, always with stunning lake views below.
The park has different routes by age and difficulty, ensuring both safety and fun:
- Mini Courses: For children aged 2–5, with low ropes, soft landings, and supervision.
- Family Courses: Medium-height paths ideal for parents and kids together.
- Adventure Courses: High platforms and long ziplines for teens and adults seeking thrills.
In total, there are over 80 obstacles spread across several hectares of forest — including balance logs, climbing nets, rope swings, and a final zipline that glides over a panoramic clearing with breathtaking lake views.
Beyond the Ropes – More to Discover
The park’s mission goes beyond adrenaline: it’s about reconnecting families with nature.
Wooden playgrounds, eco trails, and picnic areas encourage visitors to slow down and enjoy the forest’s calm.
There’s even a botanical path where you can learn about local mountain flora and fauna, and a small petting farm with goats and rabbits for younger children.
For parents, the WonderCafé offers local food, espresso, and homemade desserts — perfect for a break while watching the kids climb through the trees.
Safety First, Adventure Second
Every participant is equipped with professional harnesses and helmets, and trained instructors provide full briefings before entry.
Courses use the continuous belay system, ensuring you’re always securely attached.
Even small children can safely explore under supervision, making Wonderwood one of the safest and most family-friendly adventure parks in northern Italy.
Practical Information
- Location: Trarego Viggiona, about 20 minutes from Cannobio.
- Season: Open from April to October, depending on weather.
- Facilities: Free parking, picnic areas, café, restrooms, and souvenir shop.
- Recommended Visit: 2–3 hours minimum for the full experience.
- Dress Code: Sporty clothing and closed shoes (no sandals).
The combination of mountain air, physical activity, and breathtaking scenery makes Wonderwood an essential stop for active travellers around Lake Maggiore.
The Perfect Family Itinerary from Cannobio
| Time | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 8 a.m. | Depart Cannobio | Enjoy breakfast with lake views and set off south toward Arona. |
| 10 a.m. | Arrive at Safari Park Pombia | Begin your safari adventure and explore the zoo. |
| 1 p.m. | Lunch at the park | Pizza or picnic under the trees. |
| 2 p.m. | Drive back toward Cannobio | Scenic return along Lago Maggiore. |
| 3 p.m. | Arrive at Wonderwood Adventure Park | Climb, zip, and explore the forest. |
| 6 p.m. | Return to Cannobio | Relax by the lake and enjoy dinner on the promenade. |
This itinerary combines nature, excitement, and relaxation — a true Lake Maggiore family day that everyone will remember.
Why Stay Around Cannobio
Cannobio is the perfect starting point for exploring both attractions.
Located on the Italian side of Lago Maggiore, it offers affordable accommodation, great food, and quick access to Switzerland and Piedmont.
For families who love flexibility, camping Lago Maggiore provides the ideal base — direct lake access, comfortable facilities, and plenty of nearby activities.
From your mobile home or tent at Lakeview Cannobio Camping & Resort, you can plan day trips to the Safari Park, Wonderwood, or even Ascona and Locarno in Switzerland.
After a full day of adventure, nothing beats returning to your campsite, barbecuing under the stars, and watching the reflections of the mountains on the lake.
Tips for Travellers
- 🧭 Combine Both: Visit Safari Park Pombia in the morning and Wonderwood in the afternoon.
- 🎟️ Buy Tickets Online: Both attractions offer discounts for online reservations.
- 🚗 Check the Weather: Both parks are mostly outdoors — choose a sunny day for the best experience.
- 🧴 Bring Essentials: Sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes for walking or climbing.
- 📸 Take Photos: Both parks offer perfect family photo spots — from lions to treetops.
Conclusion – Two Adventures, One Lake
Few destinations combine wildlife, adventure, and scenic beauty like Lago Maggiore.
At Safari Park Pombia, you’ll experience the thrill of seeing lions and giraffes up close; at Wonderwood Adventure Park, you’ll feel the freedom of flying through the forest above the lake.
Both parks celebrate nature in their own way — one through conservation, the other through outdoor play — and together they form a perfect pair for families, couples, and groups.
From Cannobio or your favourite camping Lago Maggiore site, it’s easy to reach both in one unforgettable day.
You’ll return with tired legs, happy children, and memories that blend the wild and the wonderful — the essence of a perfect Lake Maggiore family adventure.
