Feel at home - Casa Anima Ghirla - Detached house - woods, lake, tranquility

Casa Anima – nature, silence, and magic
A somewhat magical place where time slows down and people can pause, relax, and rediscover themselves.
Perfect for families and groups of friends seeking peace, nature, and authenticity. Private covered parking.

📍 Ideal location

🇨🇭 Switzerland 7 km away; Lugano 25 km
🚲 A paradise for cyclists
🌲 Nearby forests and walking trails
🏊‍♂️ Lake Ghirla, perfect for swimming, just a 15-minute walk away
🏊‍♂️ Lake Maggiore – Luino, 15 km away
🚗 Milan is a 1-hour drive away








Explore Ghirla and its treasures 🌲⛰️

🔨 The Ghirla Hammer Mill (Ancient Forge)
It is one of the few still-functioning examples of a waterwheel-powered hammer mill in Europe. It dates back to the late 18th century (around 1791) and has belonged to the Pavoni family for generations.
• What to see: Inside, there is a huge wooden wheel driven by the waters of the Margorabbia stream, which powers a gigantic hammer (the “maglio”) once used to forge iron and produce agricultural tools (spades, hoes, ploughs).
• Note for guests: It’s a place where time has stood still. Guided tours and blacksmithing demonstrations are often organised. I recommend stopping by to see the majestic outer wheel: it’s one of Ghirla’s most beautiful photo spots.
🌾 The Ghirla Mill
Located right next to the hammer mill, the mill bears witness to the importance of grinding grains (especially corn for polenta and chestnuts) for the local farming economy.
• Fun fact: Like the Maglio, the mill also utilised the same system of water channels. Although production is no longer industrial-scale today, the structure retains the charm of its stone millstones and wooden gears.
• Note for guests: This is the perfect example of how our grandparents managed to live in harmony with nature, using the clean energy of water for all their daily needs.
•
❄️ The Valganna Caves and the Antro delle Gallerie
These natural cavities are carved into the bedrock and are constantly traversed by seeping water.
• The Winter Spectacle: They are especially famous between December and February. The water seeping from the rocks freezes, creating enormous stalactites and stalagmites of translucent ice. It is one of the most photographed spots in the province of Varese during the winter.
• The Waterfall: Next to the caves is a waterfall that, during the coldest months, transforms into a veritable suspended ice sculpture.
• Historical Trivia: During World War II, these caves were used as a shelter. Furthermore, the area is linked to the legend of Saint Gemolo: it is said that the young martyr passed right through here.
• Note for visitors: They’re located right on the side of the main road. I recommend pulling over safely in the designated spaces to admire them. Even in summer, they offer incredible natural coolness: the temperature near the caves is several degrees cooler than on the road


💦 The Ferrera Waterfalls (Fermona)
Hidden among the dense vegetation, these waterfalls look like something out of a fairy tale. The main waterfall is about 30 metres high and forms a natural pool at its base, surrounded by rock walls and moss.
• The Experience: It’s the perfect place to cool off on hot days. The roar of the water and the humidity-laden air provide an immediate sense of well-being.
• How to get there: The entrance is located in the centre of the village of Ferrera. A trail (short but steep) descends towards the Margorabbia River. In less than 10 minutes on foot, you’ll find yourself in front of the waterfall.
• Note for visitors: The trail can be slippery due to constant moisture, so we recommend wearing shoes with good traction (no flip-flops). If you’re brave, you can dip your feet in the crystal-clear, icy waters!
• Fun fact: If you continue along the trail that runs alongside the river, you’ll discover other small waterfalls and smaller pools—less well-known but just as picturesque and much quieter.

⛪ San Gemolo Abbey (Ganna)
Founded around the year 1000, the abbey is a Benedictine monastic complex dedicated to the young martyr Gemolo. It is a key stop on the Via Francisca del Lucomagno.
• The Pentagonal Cloister: This is the most evocative and unique part of the Abbey. Its unusual five-sided shape and stone columns create an atmosphere of absolute peace. It is the ideal place to sit in silence and listen to the sounds of nature.
• The Church and the Crypt: Inside, you can admire medieval frescoes and descend into the crypt, where you can feel the millennia-old history of the place.
• The Abbey Museum: Often open on weekends, it houses archaeological artefacts, local ceramics, and sacred objects that tell the storey of the lives of the monks and farmers of the valley.
• The Spring of San Gemolo: Not far from the Abbey, a trail leads to the spring where, according to legend, water gushed forth at the site of the saint’s martyrdom. The water is very fresh and much loved by the locals.
Note: After your visit, I recommend a walk along the trail that runs alongside the Ganna Pond (a protected nature reserve). It’s a perfect spot for birdwatching and for seeing water lilies in bloom during the summer.


🕳️ The Cunardo Gorge
• How to visit: It is a unique complex of caves carved out by the Margorabbia stream. It is located near the centre of Cunardo.
• Note: Access to the outdoor area and surface trails is free, but to enter the caves themselves, you must be accompanied by expert guides (CAI Caves Group) or participate during seasonal openings. Always bring a torch and shoes with excellent traction!
🦇 The Ferrera Caves (Cunardo)
• How to visit: Also known as the Antro di Ferrera Cave, it is a spacious and striking cavern, easily accessible via a trail through the woods.
• Note: Although it is open to visitors, the ground is slippery and the interior is dark. It’s a magical place, perfect for feeling the “breath” of the earth, but we recommend exercising extreme caution and wearing athletic clothing.
🏺 Cunardo Pottery
• Note: Cunardo has a centuries-old tradition linked to clay. Don’t miss a visit to the Ibis Kilns, a cultural and artistic centre where the Robustelli family has passed down this art form through the generations. You can admire contemporary artworks on display outdoors and soak up the history of a factory that has made the valley famous around the world.
🎨 Boarezzo: The Painted Village and the Sculptures
• Note: Just a few minutes from Ghirla, Boarezzo is an enchanting village. In addition to the famous frescoes on the walls of the houses, look for the trail through the woods that features wooden sculptures: these works seem to come to life from the trees themselves. It is a place of absolute peace, ideal for those seeking inspiration and silence.

🏘️ Mondonico: The Village of Silence
Just a short distance from Ghirla, perched on the mountainside, lies the village of Mondonico. It is a place where absolute peace reigns, characterised by narrow stone-paved alleys and perfectly preserved rural architecture.
• The Belvedere: The village square is a true natural terrace. From here, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Lake Ghirla and the entire Valganna valley. It’s the ideal spot to take a photo or enjoy the cool air on hot summer days.
• The Mondonico Waterfall: If you love hiking, there’s a picturesque waterfall (often called the Cascata del Pesegh) near the village. The trail leading to it winds through the woods and offers an almost fairy-tale atmosphere, especially after rainy days when the water flow is greater.
• Hikes: Several trails start from Mondonico and connect to the Monte Piambello hiking network. It’s an excellent starting point for those who want to explore the chestnut forests without encountering almost anyone.
Note: The road leading up to Mondonico is quite narrow and winding; I recommend driving cautiously, but it will definitely be worth it for the view you’ll find at the top.

🚶 Hiking and Biking in the Ghirla Woods
• On foot: In addition to the full loop around Lake Ghirla (flat and suitable for everyone), you can take the Sentiero del Giubileo trail that crosses the valley. For a panoramic view, follow the signs for Monte Monarco.
• By bike: The Valganna Bike Trail is one of the most beautiful in the province: it runs along the old tram route, is shaded and safe, and is perfect for a bike ride

Other nearby places

• Lavena Ponte Tresa (10 min): A splendid lakeside promenade connecting Italy to Switzerland. Saturday is market day—the perfect time to immerse yourself in local flavours.
• Sette Termini: From its meadows, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the lakes and the Alps. It’s the perfect spot for a refreshing picnic between Ghirla and Induno Olona.

🌊 Day trips: Luino and Laveno (20 min by car)
• Luino: Often called a true “pearl of Lake Maggiore.” It’s famous throughout Europe for its historic Wednesday market. Take a stroll along the lakefront and enjoy the international atmosphere of its cafés.
• Laveno Mombello: From here, you can take the “cestovia” (a picturesque open-air cable car) that takes you to the top of Sasso del Ferro for an incredible view of Lake Maggiore. It’s also the main departure point for taking the ferry to visit the Borromean Islands.
• Villa Della Porta Bozzolo (Casalzuigno - 15 min): One of the FAI’s most beautiful villas. Its monumental Italian-style garden will take your breath away.
• Lugano, Switzerland (30 min): An elegant lakeside city, ideal for a stroll among luxury shops, flower-filled parks, and art museums.


Day Trips – Varese and Surroundings (20 minutes)