Lake Maggiore Holidays

Things to see and do

Fill your days on Lake Maggiore exploring the lakeside towns and villages or venture into the hills on a walk. Ferries connect Stresa and Baveno to the beautiful Borromean Islands and its fantastic botanical gardens. You'll find lot's to see and do around the lake. When you're not out seeing the sights, find a lakeside restaurant or café where you can sit back and admire the scenery with an Aperol Spritz in hand. 

Nature enthusiasts will love the beautiful botanical gardens on the shores of Lake Maggiore. See the 17th century ‘Italian garden’ of Isola Bella and the rare plants and flowers in the palace gardens of Isola Madre – its known for its flowering azaleas. Keen gardeners will enjoy exploring Verbania – known as ‘the garden on the lake’, home to the botanical gardens of Villa Taranto.

Food & drink

Lake Maggiore won't disappoint when it comes to food. Try the traditional antipasto: speciality cured meats, fresh breads, pickles and cheeses. The local cheeses are a delicacy - give the Ossolano d'Alpe and the Bettelmatt a try while you're here. This is the perfect starter or afternoon snack, best accompanied by a glass of local wine like Nebbiolo - a full bodied red from the Novara hills. There's lots of lovely restaurants to choose from in Stresa and Baveno, from authentic Italian Osteria to fine dining. Fish features on most menus with dishes like grilled seafood and cod stuffed ravioli. You'll notice lots of traditional pastry shops as you explore the region. Each bakery has its own specialities - we couldn't resist the sweet short crust Margheritine biscuits in Stresa.

Activities

If hiking up steep paths in pursuit of views is your thing, you can hike the Chestnut Route (Sentiero dei Castagni) up Mount Mottarone from Stresa, which takes about 2 hours 40 minutes one way. The views are amazing– you can see seven of the Italian and Swiss lakes on a clear day! On your evening strolls don't miss the flower lined, lakefront promenades. One of our favourite walks from Stresa is through the hamlet of Passera - the route weaves through the forest to the villages of Passera, Brisino, Falchetto and Belgirate.

Pre book your excursions online or give us call

Three Lakes Tour £36 per person (full day)

Visit three lakes in one day: Maggiore, Lugano and Como. Begin in Stresa with a scenic drive along the shores of Lake Maggiore before crossing the Swiss boarder to visit Lugano. Explore the chic city – art lovers should look out for Bernardino Luini’s fresco ‘The Last Supper’ in the church of Santa Maria degli Angeli. On Lake Como, you’ll explore Tremezzo’s Villa Carlotta and its beautiful gardens and the city of Como.

Departs: Tuesdays

Milan from £35 per person (full day)

One of the most stylish cities in the world, Milan is the Italian fashion capital. Make the most of your time in the company of our local guide with a visit to the elegant Vittorio Emanuele Galleries and the Sforza Castle. There's free time to visit La Scala Opera or some of the famous boutiques too. 

Departs: Fridays

Macugnaga from £32 (half day)

In just 90 minutes we go from 260 metres above sea level in Stresa, through the Anzasca Valley where the ancient houses of the Walser people cling to the cliffs, to the foot of the second highest mountain in the Alps - Monte Rosa at over 4600 metres. Stroll through the picturesque alpine village of Macugnaga and enjoy the views across the mountain pastures. For views that are even more spectacular take the cable car.

Departs: Saturdays, from mid-June to mid-September – Optional cable car ticket (approx. €12), payable locally.

Ascona and Cannobio from £31 per person (half day)

Visit the elegant Swiss town of Ascona, a photographer's dream and home to an attractive lakeside promenade and interesting boutiques. After, head to the sleepy Italian village of Cannobio - its picture postcard setting is a favourite with local artists. 

Departs: Thursdays

Wine Tour from £34 per person (half day)

Where would Italy be without its renowned pasta and wine? This excursion gives you the chance to try some of the region's finest local produce. We’ll guide you through the beautiful countryside to the wine cellars of Ricetto, where you’ll learn about the art of wine production in the area. You'll have the chance to enjoy some Piedmont wines and tasty local snacks, 

Departs: Sundays

Excursion Package from £97 per person

Pre-book our excursion bundle, which includes the three half day tours: Macugnaga, Ascona and Cannobio as well as the Wine Tour and receive a free one day boat ticket to Baveno or Stresa and the Borromean Islands.

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our Terms & Conditions.