Lake Maggiore (Lago Maggiore) is Italy’s second-largest lake, straddling the Piedmont and Lombardy regions (with its northern tip in Switzerland). Framed by Alpine peaks and dotted with famous islands, it enjoys a mild climate and stunning scenery. The Italian lakeside is especially lush – “one of the greenest in Italy” with nature reserves like Lagoni di Mercurago and Fondotoce. Charming lakeside towns (Stresa, Verbania, Arona, Cannobio) line the shore, each offering grand villas, gardens and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Over three days you can soak up mountain views, fragrant gardens and local culture – all at a relaxed pace suited to families, couples, seniors or solo travelers.
Day 1: Stresa and the Borromean Islands
- Midday – Borromean boat tour: Catch a ferry from Stresa to the famous Borromean Islands. On Isola Bella, visit Palazzo Borromeo and its terraced Italian garden (statues, fountains and multicolored blooms). The Baroque palace (20+ opulent rooms) overlooks the lake and is a highlight for history buffs. On Isola Madre (a lush 8-ha botanical garden), wander among exotic camellias, azaleas and palms in a subtropical setting. Young travelers will love spotting free-roaming peacocks and charming birds. For lunch, stop at Isola dei Pescatori (Fishermen’s Island) – a postcard village of fishermen’s cottages. Enjoy fresh lake-caught fish at a trattoria (try risotto al persico, perch risotto) with dinner-boat views.
- Afternoon – Lakeside options: Active travelers can take the (currently closed) Stresa–Mottarone funivia route by car/bus or hike up Monte Mottarone. At 1,491 m it offers a 360° panorama of seven lakes and distant Alps. Seniors or those preferring a gentler afternoon can enjoy Stresa’s cafés or visit Villa Taranto (see Day 2). Families may head back to the Borromean shore to visit Parco del Mottarone (small play areas and easy nature walks) or simply play by the water. Couples might enjoy a sunset boat cruise around the Borromean Gulf, glasses of local wine in hand.
- Evening – Dinner: Back in Stresa, choose a lakeside restaurant or osteria. Piedmont specialties abound: fresh whitefish or perch from the lake, creamy polenta (often served with game or cheese), and hearty stews. Other regional treats include boiled meats and bagna caôda. Pair dinner with a regional red wine (e.g. Ghemme DOCG or a Lugana white). End the day with a leisurely stroll along Stresa’s illuminated promenade or a gelato at a café.
Day 2: Verbania, Gardens & Mountains
A highlight today is Villa Taranto in Pallanza (Verbania). Its 16 ha of terraced gardens are a riot of flowers and fountains – voted among the “most beautiful gardens in the world”. A Scottish captain created this botanical marvel from 1931 onward, with rare plants from around the globe. Spend the morning wandering the pathways, conifer avenue, and water-lily ponds (the scene above shows its famous Putti fountain).
- Morning – Villa Taranto (Pallanza): Explore the manicured gardens of Villa Taranto. Admire the floral “natural paintings” and greenhouse displays. The villa itself is not open to the public, but the grounds (including a Dahlia maze and conservatory) are enchanting. This is a great spot for photos and a gentle walk among mature lawns and sculptures.
- Lunch: In Verbania–Pallanza, grab a lakeside meal. Look for dishes like missultin (dried lake fish), trout or char grilled, and local cheeses (for example Toma del Mottarone or Bettelmatt). Verbania’s old town has several family-run osterie. Seniors can relax in a cafe overlooking the lake, and kids can enjoy the villa gardens.
- Afternoon – Ghiffa or Mottarone: Venture a short distance west to the Sacro Monte di Ghiffa, a UNESCO Sacred Mountain. Hike a gentle forest path past centuries-old chapels and a hilltop sanctuary (16th c.) dedicated to the Trinity. The views over Lake Maggiore and the pre-Alps are spectacular. Art and history lovers will enjoy the rich frescoes inside the church. Alternatively, spend the afternoon outdoors on Monte Mottarone (hiking trails through pine and herb-scented meadows). Drive or hike into pine woods and meadows for exercise and wildlife spotting (in winter this area is a ski resort).
- Afternoon/Evening – Verbania: Return to Verbania town (Intra or Pallanza) by late afternoon. Stroll along its charming waterfront and grab an aperitivo. If time permits, visit the lakeside Villa Giulia (art exhibits) or walk in the small Valentino park. Couples might enjoy a wine-tasting (nearby Angera is a local wine zone) or boat back to Stresa for sunset. Families can relax at Verbania’s public gardens or kid-friendly cafes. Have dinner sampling Piedmont classics (mushroom risotto, game stews, or tajarin pasta). For dessert try a local gelato or the shortbread margheritine cookies of Stresa.
Day 3: Arona, Angera and Santa Caterina
Begin at Arona, the lake’s southern gateway (Rome built ships here). In the morning, walk Arona’s pedestrian town center. Don’t miss the lakeside statue of San Carlo Borromeo (“Sancarlone”) – a 35 m bronze colossus on the hill. Nearby, the Lagoni di Mercurago Nature Park (UNESCO prehistoric pile-dwelling site) is a green wetland with easy trails and birdwatching.
- Late Morning – Ferry to Angera: Take a short ferry or boat north to Angera (5 min ride). On arrival, you’ll see the imposing Rocca Borromea (Angera Castle) towering on a cliff. Explore the castle (entrance fee). Its medieval halls house frescoes and the Doll & Toy Museum (Princess Bona’s collection of 1,000+ antique dolls) – a hit with families. Outside is a recreated medieval herb garden with lake views. Wander Angera’s Allea park (a chestnut-tree promenade on the waterfront) and stop at the lakeside Madonna della Riva sanctuary (famed for a mysterious bleeding fresco).
- Lunch: Enjoy a long lunch in Angera. Visit a local cantina (wine cellar) for a tasting of Ronchi Varesini wines with platters of cheeses and salumi. Or dine at a trattoria: try risotto alla Milanese or ossobuco (veal shank) in a rich sauce – classic Lombardy fare reflective of the lake’s mixed heritage. Couples can toast with a glass of Varesotto rosso or herbal amaro as the sun falls.
- Afternoon – Santa Caterina Hermitage: In the afternoon, board a boat northward to the Eremo di Santa Caterina del Sasso, a cliffside hermitage above the lake. This monastery complex (12th–14th c.) clings to the rocks with steep stairs down to a church and chapel. Inside are vivid frescoes, and the 15 m bell tower is a striking landmark. (Alternatively, older visitors can view it from the boat deck – the panorama is one of the lake’s signature images.)
- Evening – Return & Dinner: Return to Arona for a final lakeside meal. Pick a cafe or osteria and savor more Piedmont specialties: in Arona local osterie serve bollito misto (mixed boiled meats) and paniscia novarese (rice stew with beans and cabbage), hearty dishes to warm up. Finish with Italian espresso or a scoop of gelato. As the sun sets, enjoy a lakeside promenade – the “door to Lake Maggiore” remains open for future visits.
Optional Add-ons: For active travelers, consider a bike ride or hike in Ticino Park (south of Arona) or a mountain bike loop on Mottarone’s trails. Families might stop at the small adventure park near Stresa or an aquapark near Laveno. Seniors can add a scenic ferry ride to Cannobio for a tranquil late afternoon. Throughout your trip, flexibility is key: swap activities to suit your pace – whether that means extra relaxation at a cafe or more time in nature.
A Peaceful Place to Stay on Lake Maggiore: Hartmann Feel at Home
If you’re planning a trip to Lake Maggiore and searching for a quiet, affordable, and character-filled place to stay, look no further than Hartmann Feel at Home.
Located in Gignese, just 10 minutes from Stresa, this lovingly restored 1930s villa offers a perfect escape between the lake and the mountains.
Surrounded by ancient trees and gentle hills, our guesthouse is a true retreat—calm, welcoming, and immersed in nature.
Where Comfort Meets Authenticity
Forget noisy streets and crowded hotels. At Hartmann Feel at Home, you’ll experience:
- The charm of a historic home with modern comforts
- A cool climate at 700 meters of altitude, ideal for summer stays
- A panoramic veranda where breakfast is served every morning
- A yoga room and cozy indoor spaces for quiet moments
- A peaceful garden, private parking, and free Wi-Fi
Here, everything is designed to help you slow down and reconnect—with yourself and the landscape.
Unique Rooms Inspired by Energy and Color
Our seven rooms are all different, designed with harmony in mind and inspired by the colors of the chakra system:
🧡 Swadhisthana Orange – Spacious 50 sqm suite with 2 single beds + sofa bed, ideal for families or groups
🔵 Vishuddha Indigo – 31 sqm suite with 2 single beds + sofa bed, perfect for up to 4 adults
💛 Manipura Yellow – Intimate 16.5 sqm double with French bed, perfect for couples
💚 Anahata Green – Bright 30 sqm triple with 2 single beds + a raised bed
🔹 Ajna Turquoise – Cozy 16 sqm double with French bed, peaceful and quiet
💜 Sahasrara Purple – Minimalist 20 sqm twin, great for solo travelers or friends
🔴 Muladhara Red – Shared room with 2 single beds + bunk sofa bed, budget-friendly for solo guests
All rooms include a private bathroom, fresh linens, and windows overlooking the surrounding greenery.
Between Two Lakes, Close to Everything
Hartmann Feel at Home is located right between Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta. From here you can easily explore:
- Stresa, the lakeside promenade, and the Borromean Islands
- The Mottarone, with trails, views, and ski slopes
- The romantic town of Orta San Giulio
- Two nearby golf clubs: Golf des Iles Borromées and Golf Club Alpino
- Beautiful gardens, nature parks, and hilltop villages
Whether you want to relax or explore, you’re always in the right place.
Why Stay with Us?
✔ A unique guesthouse with heart and soul
✔ Affordable rooms for every traveler type
✔ Quiet, green surroundings—yet close to Stresa
✔ A relaxing atmosphere ideal for wellness and nature lovers
✔ Personalized, friendly hospitality
📍 Location: Salita Rognoni 10, 28836 Gignese (VB)
📞 Info & Reservations: +39 372 67 50
🌐 Book now directly through our website below.