Lake Maggiore’s Lakeside Charm

Lake Maggiore – Italy’s second-largest lake (stretching from Piedmont into Switzerland) – is often celebrated as “one of the most beautiful Italian lakes”. Nestled between snow-capped Alps and Mediterranean-sheltered hills, its shores are dotted with grand villas, lush gardens and historic villages. Iconic sights like the Borromean Islands (Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and the Fishermen’s Isola Superiore) lie between the elegant towns of Stresa and Verbania. Sunny shores, pastel-hued villages and panoramic vistas define the lake’s atmosphere, making its towns famed for scenic beauty, cultural heritage and a relaxed “dolce vita” vibe.

Stresa

Stresa is perhaps Lake Maggiore’s best-known resort. Perched on the Borromean Gulf, it boasts an elegant lakeside promenade lined with Art Nouveau villas and grand hotels. The town’s mild climate, mountain backdrops and well-kept gardens give it a refined, old‑world charm. Stresa is also the gateway to the Borromean Islands – boat trips to Isola Bella, Isola Madre and nearby Isola Pescatori leave from its docks, and the lush Villa Pallavicino (with an English garden and zoo) lies just outside town. (A cable car from Stresa’s outskirts climbs Monte Mottarone for sweeping views of the lake basin.)

• Borromean Islands & Villa Pallavicino: Scenic islands and gardens accessible by ferry.
• Art Nouveau architecture: Elegant hotels and lakefront villas along the promenade.
• Mottarone viewpoint: Cable car to alpine trails and panoramic sunsets.
• Cultural flair: Historic cafés, boutiques, and the Hemingway-associated Grand Hotel (featured in A Farewell to Arms).

Stresa stands out for its combination of lakeside grandeur and easy access to attractions – ideal for travelers seeking romance and classic lakeside scenery.

Cannobio

At the northern tip of the Italian side, Cannobio is often called one of the lake’s prettiest villages. Its car-free old town is a maze of cobbled alleys and arcaded shops painted in cheerful pastel hues. A wide, lively piazza opens onto a palm-lined waterfront with cafes and a long beach (this Blue Flag area with its sailing club is popular with families). Beyond the town a wooden footbridge crosses the Cannobino River to the Orrido di Sant’Anna gorge – a dramatic canyon with waterfalls and easy hiking trails. A hilltop landmark is the Baroque Santuario della Pietà, a 17th-century church offering sweeping views back down to Cannobio and the lake.

• Car-free historic center: Quaint alleys, churches and colorful riverside plazas.
• Beaches and water sports: Sandy lakefront with crystal-clear waters and boats (awarded a Blue Flag).
• Orrido di Sant’Anna: Scenic gorge hike to a waterfall (minutes from town).
• Santuario della Pietà: Panoramic hilltop Baroque chapel above the town.

Cannobio’s gentle pace, clean beaches and friendly atmosphere make it a standout for visitors wanting an authentic lakeside village experience. Its charm and natural beauty – from lakeside promenades to mountain gorges – make it especially appealing for families and nature lovers.

Arona

Arona lies on the southern shore (in Piedmont) and offers a lively small-town vibe. Its attractive lakeside promenade begins at Piazza del Popolo (the main square) and is lined with colorful 18th/19th‑century mansions, fountains and cozy cafés. One of Arona’s most eye-catching sights is the towering Colosso di San Carlo Borromeo – a 35‑meter bronze statue of a 17th-century saint which visitors can actually climb inside. Once the tallest statue in the world, it still dominates the waterfront view. On warm days Arona’s piazzas bustle with gelato stands and boaters, and during summer colorful umbrellas or lanterns are strung overhead in the streets, adding to the festive atmosphere. (The medieval Rocca Borromea fortress also overlooks the town from a hilltop.)

• San Carlo Borromeo Colossus: Giant statue with climbable interior and museum.
• Lakeside promenade: Panoramic views of the Borromean Gulf, with cafés and outdoor markets.
• Historic center: Baroque churches and lively piazzas (Arona is an Orange Flag “quality” town).
• Castello Borromeo: Ruined castle above town, linked to the Borromeo family (it’s free to explore).

Arona stands out for its combination of waterfront leisure and unique photo-ops (especially the Colossus). Its scenic views of Lake Maggiore and proximity to Angera (and its castle) make it great for photographers and day-trippers seeking both nature and history.

Verbania (Pallanza)

The city of Verbania (officially split into Pallanza and Intra districts) is larger and more urban, but its lakefront is dotted with stately villas and gardens. Set on the Borromean Gulf with wooded hills behind, it feels surprisingly tranquil. Its crown jewel is the botanical garden of Villa Taranto (in Pallanza) – a vast park with 80,000 plants and rare flowers that ranks among Italy’s top gardens. Nearby, elegant 19th‑century mansions like Villa Giulia (with a Capuchin monastery) and the romantic Villa San Remigio (Italianate villa and gardens) testify to the town’s aristocratic past. A tree-lined lakeside promenade in Pallanza offers evening passeggiate with views toward Isola Bella.

• Villa Taranto: World-renowned botanical gardens in Pallanza.
• Historic villas: 19th-century estates (Villa Giulia, Villa San Remigio) and Art Nouveau buildings.
• Pallanza lakeside: Elegant promenade with cafes, and views of the Borromean Islands.
• Intra district: Bustling commercial center with shops and ferry terminal (servicing all lake ferry routes).

Verbania’s appeal lies in its cultural depth and green spaces. It’s a great choice for travelers interested in history, gardens and a refined atmosphere – the “splendid Verbania” (as Italian tourist literature calls it) hosts beautiful villas and Villa Taranto’s gardens.

Locarno (Switzerland)

On the Swiss side of Lake Maggiore, Locarno brings an Italian-speaking lakeside town with a sunny, almost subtropical feel. Palm trees and flower gardens bloom along its waterfront plaza, and the town enjoys a mild microclimate. Locarno’s pedestrian Piazza Grande (12,000 m²) is one of Switzerland’s largest squares, famed for summer festivals (a film festival in August, music events in July). A short funicular ride up to the Madonna del Sasso shrine rewards visitors with breathtaking vistas of Locarno, the lake and Alpine peaks. The lakeside Lido (beach complex) and nearby Brissago Islands botanical gardens add to its vacation atmosphere.

• Piazza Grande: Scenic car-free square with cafés; center of the Locarno Film Festival.
• Madonna del Sasso: Hilltop sanctuary with panoramic views of lake and mountains.
• Waterfront Lido: Beach and pool complex with mountain backdrop.
• Swiss-Italian ambiance: Blend of Swiss order and southern flair – palm-lined promenades, local wines and bocce courts.

Locarno stands out as a blend of Swiss efficiency and Mediterranean charm. Its sun-drenched setting, festive atmosphere and easy promenade walks make it ideal for visitors seeking a laid-back lakeside scene with a hint of Italianate “dolce vita”.

Which Town to Choose?

• Romance: Stresa – For couples, Stresa’s elegant villas, lakeside sunsets and boat trips to flower-filled islands create a romantic setting.
• Family-friendly: Cannobio – Safe shallow beaches, playgrounds and a relaxed small‑town vibe make it great for kids and family holidays.
• Photography: Arona (and Angera) – The massive statue of San Carlo, scenic harbor views and the medieval Rocca are perfect for striking shots.
• Culture & Gardens: Verbania – Ideal for art and history lovers, with lush Villa Taranto gardens and historic mansions to explore.
• Sun & Leisure: Locarno (Swiss side) – For a sunny lakeside break with Italian flair, festivals and palm trees, Locarno offers a Mediterranean holiday feel on Swiss soil.

Each town has its own charm – from Stresa’s grandeur to Cannobio’s quaint charm, from Arona’s iconic statue to Locarno’s palm‑fringed piazzas – so the “best” choice depends on whether you seek romance, family fun, stunning vistas or cultural richness.

Stay Near Lake Maggiore in a Peaceful Hillside Villa

Hartmann Feel at Home – Your Relaxing Getaway in Gignese

If you’re looking for a quiet and charming place to stay near Lake Maggiore, just a short drive from Stresa, Hartmann Feel at Home is waiting for you.

We’re located in Gignese, a small village surrounded by forest and fresh air, at 700 meters above sea level. Our guesthouse is set in a beautifully restored 1930s villa, offering the perfect balance between nature, comfort, and authentic hospitality.

What Makes Us Special?

• A peaceful atmosphere away from crowds and noise
• A private garden with centuries-old trees
• Spacious themed rooms inspired by the seven chakras
• A cozy fireplace lounge and a relaxing yoga room
• Fresh, homemade breakfast included
• Free parking, free Wi-Fi, and local tips from your hosts

Here, you’ll wake up to birdsong and mountain views—not traffic.

Our Rooms

Each of our rooms is unique and thoughtfully decorated, with colors and details inspired by the energy of a chakra. All rooms have a private bathroom, comfortable beds, and views of the park or surrounding hills.

🧡 Swadhisthana Orange – 50 sqm suite with two single beds + sofa bed. Ideal for families or groups.
🔵 Vishuddha Indigo – 31 sqm suite for 4 guests with two single beds + sofa bed.
💛 Manipura Yellow – 16.5 sqm double with a French bed. Warm and intimate.
💚 Anahata Green – 30 sqm triple with two single beds and an elevated bed.
🔹 Ajna Turquoise – 16 sqm double with French bed. Perfect for couples.
💜 Sahasrara Purple – 20 sqm twin room. Simple and relaxing.
🔴 Muladhara Red – Shared room with 2 single beds + bunk sofa bed. Budget-friendly and cozy.

Explore the Region with Ease

Our location is ideal for discovering both Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta, as well as the nearby Mottarone mountain. You can easily visit:

• Stresa and the Borromean Islands
• The romantic village of Orta San Giulio
• Local hiking and biking trails
• Golf des Iles Borromées and Alpino Golf Club
• Villa Taranto and Villa Pallavicino botanical gardens

Whether you want to explore or unwind, you’ll have everything within reach.

A Stay That Feels Like Home

At Hartmann Feel at Home, we do everything with care—from how we prepare breakfast to how we welcome our guests. We’re not a hotel. We’re a place with personality, quiet charm, and a real sense of calm.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with your partner, or with your family, we’ll help you feel at home—just with better views.

📍 Address: Salita Rognoni 10, 28836 Gignese (VB)
📞 Contact: +39 372 67 50
🌐 Book now directly from our website below

Come enjoy Lake Maggiore the easy way—with space to breathe, time to rest, and nature all around.