Piedmont has confirmed its Blue Flags for 2026, with four locations recognised for environmental quality and services. All of them are on the region’s lakes: three in the province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola and one in the province of Novara.
The Blue Flags in Piedmont, as in the rest of Italy, are awarded by the FEE (Foundation for Environmental Education). The criteria are strict and cover bathing water quality, waste separation, sustainable mobility, beach safety and environmental management.
The latest results reinforce an established pattern: despite being landlocked, Piedmont stands out for the quality and organisation of its lakeside beaches.
What are the 2026 Blue Flags in Piedmont?
In 2026, Piedmont holds four Blue Flags, all located around Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta. These areas are already appreciated for their natural setting and strong environmental standards.
Below is the full list of the 2026 Blue Flag beaches in Piedmont.
Three beaches on Lake Maggiore
Verbano-Cusio-Ossola is the Piedmont province with the highest number of Blue Flags in 2026. The three awarded beaches all overlook Lake Maggiore, one of northern Italy’s best-known lake holiday destinations.
Here, clear bathing waters sit against an Alpine backdrop, with well-kept lakefront towns that draw both visitors and second-home owners.
Cannobio – Lido Beach
Lido di Cannobio is one of the most popular beaches on Lake Maggiore. It has equipped areas, green spaces and facilities for swimmers. Water quality meets the required standards, and Cannobio itself is appreciated for its historic centre and tidy promenade.
Verbania – Fondotoce – Isolino
This beach lies in an area of significant natural value, close to the Fondotoce Nature Reserve. Wide open spaces and a striking setting define the area. Services focus on safety, clear information for visitors and consistent cleanliness throughout the bathing season.
Cannero Riviera – Lido
Cannero Riviera is known for its mild microclimate and open views across Lake Maggiore. The Lido is well equipped and carefully maintained, with facilities for both residents and tourists. Environmental quality has long been a priority here, and the 2026 Blue Flag confirms continued attention to sustainable management.
Local councils have invested in sustainable mobility, waste sorting systems and beach safety services, all of which are essential for securing and keeping Blue Flag status.
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Province of Novara: a Blue Flag beach on Lake Orta
The province of Novara is represented by a town overlooking the less-touristy Lake Orta, one of Piedmont's most beautiful lakes. Here, the quality of the environment combines with a captivating landscape, with historic villages and nature trails popular during the summer.
Gozzano – Lido di Gozzano
Lido di Gozzano is one of the main bathing spots on Lake Orta. The beach is equipped with green areas and visitor facilities, including refreshments and nearby accommodation.
Water quality is monitored regularly during the summer season, and Blue Flag certification confirms high environmental and organisational standards.
Over time, local authorities have prioritised continuous water monitoring and improved bathing services. The confirmation of the 2026 Blue Flag strengthens Lake Orta’s reputation as one of Piedmont’s leading lake destinations.
Which waters are suitable for swimming in Piedmont?
Although Piedmont has no coastline, it has numerous designated bathing areas across its lakes and, in some cases, authorised stretches of river.
The main swimming areas are concentrated around Lake Maggiore, Lake Orta, Lake Mergozzo, and several smaller lakes.
Key bathing waters in Piedmont include:
- Lake Maggiore, with swimming areas in Verbania, Cannobio, Cannero Riviera and Baveno.
- Lake Orta, with bathing spots in Orta San Giulio, Pettenasco and Omegna.
- Lake Mergozzo, often cited among the cleanest lakes in Piedmont and known for its clear waters.
- Lake Viverone, on the border between the provinces of Biella and Turin, with several equipped beaches.
- Lake Sirio, near Ivrea, which becomes particularly popular in summer.
- Avigliana Grande Lake, located within the Parco Naturale dei Laghi di Avigliana.
- Lake Candia, a protected natural area with designated bathing zones.
Water quality across these lakes is monitored regularly by the relevant authorities, in line with national and European regulations. Testing takes place throughout the bathing season to ensure compliance with safety standards.
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