An Autumnal Guide to Milan
As the year winds down, the autumnal beckoning is an invitation for gratitude, reflection, and leaf peeping! Aligning your energy for the new year begins now, in the stillness of the season. If you are visiting Milan during autumn, these practices can be beautifully integrated into your sojourn, offering moments of profound calm amidst the city's dynamism.
Forest Bathing and Leaf Peeping: The Mountain Escape
October and November are the peak months to witness the glorious nuances of autumnal shades in Northern Italy. To fully immerse yourself in nature's rhythm, consider these easily accessible retreats:
Canzo, Lombardy: Nestled in the heart of the Italian Alps, Canzo is easily reached by train and offers a mesmerizing escape. The area boasts various hiking trails perfect for all levels—from amateurs seeking a gentle walk to avid cross-country hikers. The dense foliage provides the perfect setting for quiet contemplation and energy recalibration.
Oasi Zegna, Piedmont: Explore the vast, 100 km² nature reserve founded by Ermenegildo Zegna. This is more than a nature reserve; it's a place where the Zegna brand's history, its commitment to environmental stewardship, and its luxury menswear are all deeply intertwined. The reserve offers stunning "leaf peeping" opportunities, connecting the principles of enduring style with natural beauty.
Gold Foliage Bathing in the City
If you prefer to stay within Milan's urban perimeter, moments of profound natural beauty are still within reach. Parco Nord (North Park) is easily accessible from Bignami station. This large park is a city treasure, known for its majestic Gingko trees, which turn a spectacular, luminous gold during the autumn season. A contemplative walk here is a powerful way to clear your mind and set intentions upon completing your walk at Parco Nord, journey to the nearby Pirelli HangarBicocca. The Pirelli Foundation converted this former industrial plant into a non-profit space for contemporary art, a stimulating transition from nature to art.
Rainy Day Retreats
For days when the weather dictates an indoor retreat, Milan offers plenty of cultural places for your deep reflection and nourishment:
The Pinacoteca Ambrosiana is a perfect indoor getaway for contemplation. Seek out Caravaggio’s still life painting of a basket of fruits (Canestra di Frutta). The simplicity, texture, and realism of this masterpiece serve as a perfect anchor for mindful observation, reinforcing the beauty of nature's bounty. After the museum, head over to Romanengo for a traditional tea and sweets. This charming confectionery is hidden away in the antique Roman quarter, Cinque Vie. The quiet courtyard and historical ambiance provide a warm, sheltered space to jot down your insights and finalize your plans for the year ahead.