Lago d'Orta Night Run

A unique night run on Lake Orta

The Lago d'Orta Night Run is a non-competitive running event that transforms the shores of Lake Orta into an evening stage of rare beauty. Starting at nightfall and finishing in the central Piazza Motta in Pella, in the province of Novara, the race offers participants a backdrop that few other Italian running events can boast: the dark waters of the lake, illuminated villages, and a long trail of headlamps tracing the route along the shore.

The two routes

The event, organized by ASD Circuito Running in collaboration with ASD Lago d'Orta Sports & Events, offers two distances suitable for both trained runners and amateurs:

• Long route - 15.5 km: starting from Orta San Giulio, with its narrow alleys and famous square overlooking the Island of San Giulio, and finishing in Pella on the opposite side of the lake.
• Short route - 7 km: starting from the Lido di Gozzano, ideal for those who want to experience the magic of a night run over a shorter distance.

Both races start together at 9:15 PM and have a two-hour time limit. For safety reasons, the use of a headlamp or a handheld torch is mandatory for all participants.

Atmosphere and territory

Running at night along Lake Orta means crossing one of the most beloved landscapes in Piedmont, passing through Orta San Giulio—listed among the most beautiful villages in Italy—Gozzano, and Pella. Roads are closed to traffic for the occasion, and a boat service transports runners to their respective starting points. The event attracts hundreds of enthusiasts every year: the 2026 edition saw about 900 runners take to the start, confirming the charm of this evening race.

An event that unites sport and tourism

The Night Run is not just a race; it is an opportunity to discover the town of Pella and the entire Cusio Riviera in an unusual and fascinating way. The crowds gathered along the route and the festive finish in Piazza Motta make the evening an unmissable appointment in the Cusio and Piedmont running calendar.