Grand Prix CusioCup — Lake Orta Swim

The great open-water swim on Lake Orta

Every year in early June, the lakeside of Pettenasco (Novara province, Piedmont) becomes the starting point for one of Northern Italy's most beloved open-water swimming races: the Grand Prix CusioCup — Lake Orta Swim. The crystal-clear waters of the Cusio, framed by mountains and the silhouette of the Island of San Giulio, welcome both amateur and professional swimmers who compete over various distances, from short sprints to long-distance crossings.

Multiple races in a single day

The event is not just a single race, but a full program designed for every skill level. Participants can choose between the 6,000-meter long-distance challenge, the 3,000-meter, the 1,500-meter, and the 3×750-meter relay to be tackled as a team. This format allows both experienced swimmers, accustomed to major crossings, and enthusiasts new to open-water swimming to find their ideal distance.

The Nobile dei Laghi circuit

The Lake Orta Swim is part of the Nobile dei Laghi circuit, a series of open-water swimming stages that cross the lakes of Piedmont and Northern Italy. Stage rankings are combined into a circuit leaderboard, and the season's top performers are celebrated with the title of "Nobili dei Laghi" (Nobles of the Lakes). The Pettenasco race is organized by the CusioCup team, a group active for over a decade in the world of triathlon and multisport, with dozens of events under their belt, including Italian championships and international-level races.

Pettenasco and the Cusio

Overlooking the eastern shore of Lake Orta, the town of Pettenasco offers an ideal setting for open-water swimming: well-equipped beaches, a welcoming promenade, and some of the cleanest water among the pre-Alpine lakes. The race day draws enthusiasts from all over Piedmont and neighboring regions, creating a festive sporting atmosphere that combines competition, nature, and the traditional hospitality of the Cusio area.