Location
Italy
Status
Unofficial / Tolerated
Suitable for
Families and adults
Best season
June to September
About Spiaggia naturista fluviale del Sesia – Varallo Sesia - ANITA
The Sesia river beach at Varallo is one of the few inland naturist spots in Piedmont, on the Sesia river in Valsesia, below the hamlet of Balangera just downstream of Varallo. It is a secluded stretch of riverbank in the wooded Valsesia, at the foot of the Alps. The Italian naturist federation FENAIT lists it among Italy's naturist places, and the national association ANITA keeps an entry for it, which is why the record carries the ANITA name. The beach is reached by a meadow path and a staircase from the road, so it feels secluded even though it is close to the town. As with any Alpine river, the water is cold and the level can change after rain, so take care when swimming. There are no services at the river.
Getting there
Drive through the hamlet of Balangera (Varallo Sesia, VC). Just past it, on the right, is a large igloo-shaped building, a former discotheque of the same name. Park on the left, opposite it, at the south end of the car park. A path crosses a meadow and descends about 200 m to a staircase that leads down to the riverbank. The route involves a downhill path and steps, so it is not suitable for wheelchairs.
Amenities
Legal context
FENAIT lists the Varallo Sesia river beach as a naturist place (2026) but gives no municipal ordinance or authorisation, so its legal status is unclear; treat it as a long-established, tolerated naturist spot.
Naturism at Spiaggia naturista fluviale del Sesia – Varallo Sesia - ANITA sits under Italy's rules for de facto tolerance — usually left alone if you keep it non-sexual and low-drama.
Full country law: Italy public nudity guide.
Naturist status confirmed against an official source on 24 October 2026.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 45.8265, 8.2046
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in Italy
Frequently asked questions
Is nudity allowed here?
The spot is listed by the Italian naturist federation FENAIT, but no municipal authorisation is published; it is a tolerated naturist river beach.
How do I find it?
Park opposite the former igloo-shaped discotheque just past Balangera, then follow the meadow path about 200 m down to the stairs to the river.
Is the river safe for swimming?
The Sesia is cold and its level can rise quickly; swim only in calm pools and avoid the main current.
Sources
- Spiaggia fluviale – Varallo Sesia – FENAIT Official
- Luoghi naturisti – FENAIT Official
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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