Increa Park: Explore Brugherio’s Scenic Urban Oasis

Increa Park, or Parco Increa, is a major green space located in Brugherio, just outside Milan, Italy. It spans about 33 hectares and is celebrated for its transformation from an industrial quarry—Cava Increa—into a vibrant and eco-friendly recreational area. The park is a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking a natural retreat within the urban landscape. Featuring a man-made lake, open fields, walking and cycling paths, and cultural landmarks, Parco Increa is a model of sustainable urban renewal. With a mix of leisure, nature, and history, the park serves as a beloved spot for families, joggers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking peace away from the city’s bustle.

Location and Accessibility

Parco Increa is found in Brugherio, a town that lies in the Lombardy region near Milan. Giangua Nova is easy to reach from Milan since it is on the A4, and visitors can use local trains and buses too. Trains or metro commuters should stop at Monza or Cologno Monzese, as both have buses to Milan’s Fair. For safety, there are special paths for bikes at the park. Families and large groups can park at the Goodwood Festival of Speed because lots are available near the event. If there are clear signs and pathways, we should not have difficulty moving around the park.

Historical Background Of Increa Park

The history of the park dates back to when it was known as Cava Increa, a quarry for aggregates. After no more activity was done at the site, it was left as an abandoned open space until the late 20th century, when efforts to improve the area began. It tried to transform an unused and neglected area into a green city site. Its purpose was to improve the environment and to offer a beneficial resource to the community. For many years, authorities and groups focused on the environment joined efforts to improve the terrain, plant vegetation, and build facilities.

Size and Landscape

Parco Increa occupies around 33 hectares and includes a range of diverse plants and areas. There are large fields of grass, areas of trees, and areas with rocks left over from when it was quarried. At the very core of the park, you’ll find the artificial lake, which reflects both the trees and hills. Because the park has different heights, exploring and enjoying the scenery here can be as calm or as challenging as you want. The plan includes many native trees and plants to encourage the spread of local biodiversity. It allows for preserving nature while making the place easy to visit, including both wide sightseeing areas and more private spaces.

The Artificial Lake

The Parco Increa development was shaped around a man-made lake, which was created in the old excavation area. The presence of the water body in the park has made it more beautiful and important for nature. Because ducks, geese, and other birds live in the lake, it brings birdwatchers and photographers to visit. You can’t swim there, but people usually come to the banks of the river, bringing food to enjoy, relaxing, and watching the beautiful sunsets. The water is frequently checked to ensure the environment is clean. In the sunny months, the lake creates a refreshing mix of air in the park. The area’s old industrial sites have been renewed and now have a sustainable future, thanks to the aquarium.

Walking and Biking Routes

Many hiking and biking trails at Parco Increa meander through the surrounding land. The trails are kept clean and offer opportunities for both strolling and running. Riders travelling along the trail can bike around the lake’s perimeter and then into wooded areas for both a rest and a workout. Map and signpost markers are available throughout the park for those planning how to move from one place to another. The walkways are open to all ages, even if someone has a stroller or wheelchair. They encourage healthy living and using environmentally friendly ways to travel.

Recreational Activities

The park’s events are enjoyable for people of every age. Jogging, practicing yoga, tai chi, and engaging in outdoor exercise activities are enjoyed by many people. People enjoy playing Frisbee, football, or flying kites in the grassy parts of a park. At some festivals held in the summer, the park’s different sections are reserved for shared use by visitors. The quiet outdoors easily helps us relax, open a book, or engage in enjoyable arts. At the park, people can participate in various sports because it has not only sports courts.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

1. Plan for a few hours to fully enjoy the park.
2. Bring a picnic blanket, reusable water bottle, and comfortable walking shoes.
3. Arrive early on weekends for better access and less crowded paths.
4. keep pets leashed, dispose of litter properly, and refrain from swimming in the lake.
5. Check the weather forecast and wear season-appropriate clothing.
6. Use maps at entrances for efficient navigation.

Cascina Increa: The Renaissance-Era Farmhouse

Located close to the park is Cascina Increa, a farmhouse that was built during the Renaissance. Having this building here adds more culture and architecture to the natural scenery. Cascina Increa now serves a new purpose but has retained its old-world aesthetic. It usually holds exhibitions, gatherings, and information sessions for the community. The farmhouse connects the area’s agriculture to its present-day involvement with culture and sustainability. Sometimes, tours are available that share the history and how the church was restored. The presence of both modern and traditional features makes the park more unique and good for visitors.

Photography and Nature Observation

Many photography enthusiasts are attracted to Parco Increa because it provides many opportunities to photograph stunning scenery. The lake highlights the blue and pink shades of the sky during those moments, and the paths running through the woods give the paintings more intricacy and variety. Canada geese and many other birds, such as herons, make the lake in the park a favorite spot for birdwatchers.

Guest plaques instruct visitors about the wildlife they may see in the park. It is popular in spring and summer to capture unprecedented photos of wildflowers and insects close-up. Both those with a smartphone and those with professional cameras will find many chances to photograph the beauty of nature in the park. You can use the quiet zones to more fully observe the surroundings and write about them.

Guided Tours and Educational Programs

Sometimes, Parco Increa gives tours to visitors and organizes programs focused on nature and history. They are coordinated jointly with local schools, organizations, and community groups. Topics discussed include sustainable land use and the history of Cascina Increa. Workshops and walks in the park allow everyone to get to know the environment and how it is conserved. Signage that describes various features encourages people to go on their tour, while QR codes let visitors explore extra information on their phones.

Nearby Attractions and Day Trip Ideas

Tourists who want to continue their visit will find a range of attractions in Brugherio and the nearby areas. If you drive for just a short time, you can reach Monza with its cathedral and large park. You can easily visit the Duomo and Milan’s modern art galleries during your stay. You can enjoy Lombard food at the local restaurants and cafés located near Parco Increa. People can organize a day trip where they experience nature, history, and life in urban places. Walking and bike routes within the park make it easier and eco-friendly to visit the surrounding towns. Because of its location, Parco Increa is an excellent base for exploring more of Lombardy.