From Orta to Lake Maggiore
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The great northern Italian lakes are formed by the same mountain chain, but their looks and personality differ significantly. On this itinerary, we discover the soul of Lake Maggiore and its nearby sister, Lake Orta. |
| Orta S. Giulio |
This town exudes images of centuries past while walking among the baroque palaces. Across, the island of San Giulio, notwithstanding the many structures, does not break the vow of silence that the place seems to have taken. Must visits include the romanic basilica and its paleochristian Vth century artifacts. |
| Stresa |
Before entering Stresa, one can continue along the road at Armeno to reach the summit of the Mattarone. The panorama embraces most of Alpine arch. Additionally, visitors can choose whether to reach Stresa via road or by cable car.
Stresa, with its inviting lakeshore facing the Borromées islands is a major resort town and hosts important cultural events. |
| Isole Borromées |
 From here, the itinerary proceeds by boat. Three islands, very distinct from one another, offer tantalizing choices. Isola dei pescatori is a sort of living museum of the local fishermen's daily lives. The renowned Isola Bella has a majestic palace and traditional Italian gardens. Isola Madre is a botanical garden repleat of exotic species and flowers programmed over most of the year; animals and birds roam freely, including various species of peacocks. |
Baveno
Pallanza |
Walking through the narrow streets of Baveno, Pallanza - or on the other side of the lake in Laveno - offers the peaceful sensations that caracterize most pre-Alpine towns. |
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