Lake Orta Crossing

A swimming crossing in the heart of Lake Orta

The Lake Orta Crossing is a classic open-water swim that draws enthusiasts and amateurs every summer to the shores of the Cusio, the traditional name for Lake Orta. The event connects Pella, on the western shore, to the village of Orta San Giulio, a lakefront gem overlooking the famous Island of San Giulio in the Province of Novara, Piedmont.

Originally an amateur event, the crossing has grown with each edition to become a staple of the lake's summer sports calendar and part of the regional open-water swimming circuit. It is a non-competitive challenge: the goal is not the clock, but the pleasure of swimming across one of the cleanest and most evocative bodies of water in Italy, often described as "the most romantic and ecological of the Italian lakes."

Two courses for every skill level

The event offers two distances, designed to accommodate both experienced swimmers and beginners:

• 3000-meter long course, starting from Orta San Giulio;
• 1500-meter short course, starting from Pella.

Participants meet in Pella, at Piazza Mario Motta on the lakefront, where race packs are collected. The finish line and awards ceremony take place at the Orta San Giulio Municipal School Garden, in a festive atmosphere involving swimmers, spectators, and onlookers.

Sport, landscape, and charity

The crossing is organized by Eclettica Sports in collaboration with the municipalities of Orta San Giulio and Pella. Beyond its sporting dimension, the event has always had a charitable focus: part of the registration proceeds is donated to local volunteer associations, such as ANPAS.

Swimming in Lake Orta also means immersing yourself in a unique landscape: during the crossing, you traverse the basin with views of the Island of San Giulio, the Sacro Monte (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and the villages reflected in the water. For non-swimmers, it is a perfect opportunity to discover Orta San Giulio, one of Italy's most beautiful villages, and Pella with its tranquil riviera.

A summer highlight in the Cusio region

As one of the most important events in the municipality of Orta San Giulio, the Lake Orta Crossing represents a gathering that blends sporting tradition with a love for the local area. Each year, the number of participants choosing to challenge the waters of the Cusio on an early summer Sunday continues to grow.