If you’re looking for a guesthouse in San Bernardino Verbano or a B&B in San Bernardino Verbano, Hartmann Feel at home is the ideal choice. Our nineteenth-century villa is located in Gignese, just a few kilometers from San Bernardino Verbano, halfway between Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta. Thanks to its altitude of seven hundred meters above sea level, you can enjoy cool, restful summer days breathing in the pure air of the hills of the Verbano-Cusio-Ossola region.
A strategic position between two lakes
Imagine waking up in the morning and deciding whether to explore the shores of Lake Maggiore, with its islands and historic palaces, or to prefer the more intimate and cozy atmosphere of Lake Orta, with the characteristic village of Orta San Giulio. Our villa is situated halfway between these two natural wonders, allowing you to plan day trips without stress and to return in the evening to a quiet place surrounded by greenery.
The elevated position offers breathtaking views: sunsets over Lake Maggiore are tinged with pink and orange while the profiles of the Alps provide a backdrop. In spring and autumn, the golden light enhances the colors of the surrounding woods; in winter, the crisp air makes the views of the lake even sharper. It is the perfect place for photography lovers, walkers, and those seeking an authentic connection with nature.
The villa: history and charm
Our residence dates back to the early 20th century and retains all the charm of that era. The liberty-inspired architecture features elegant mouldings, bright stained-glass windows, and an imposing wooden staircase connecting the four floors of the house. In 2022 we completed a careful renovation that restored the villa to its original splendor while adding the most modern comforts. Each intervention was designed to preserve the original materials, such as the chestnut wood floors and wrought iron railings, without sacrificing efficient systems and thermal insulation.
The house covers nearly 700 square meters: on the ground floor you are welcomed by a large living room with a fireplace, a versatile space where you can relax, read a book or chat with other guests in front of the fire. On this level there is also the breakfast room with large windows overlooking the garden and a room dedicated to yoga and holistic practices. Going up the stairs, each floor houses spacious rooms with private terraces; on the top floor a special room offers a panoramic view that stretches over Lake Maggiore and the surrounding woods.
Outside, the villa is surrounded by a park with century-old trees. The large canopies of linden, plane and chestnut trees create natural shade, ideal for an afternoon nap or outdoor reading. Gravel paths lead to small hidden corners: a romantic bench behind a hydrangea bush, a picnic table in the middle of the lawn, a swing for the little ones. In summer, the pleasant temperature of the park is a real oasis, while in autumn the colored leaves form a colourful carpet underfoot.
Rooms for every need
Our guesthouse offers various room types designed to suit the needs of families, couples, solo travelers and groups of friends. Each room is named after an energy center, an inspiration that guides its color scheme and furnishings.
- Swadhisthana Arancione: our family suite of 50 square meters is made up of two communicating rooms. It has two single beds and a sofa bed, ideal for a family with children who want separate but connected spaces. The warm orange tones encourage creativity and harmony.
- Vishuddha Indaco: this quadruple room of 31 square meters has two single beds and a sofa bed that can comfortably accommodate two more people. The indigo tone of the walls creates a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for a group of friends or a family with two teenagers.
- Manipura Giallo: the double room of 16.5 square meters is furnished with a French bed. The ocher yellow tones stimulate vitality and are ideal for those who want an intimate and welcoming environment. It is perfect for a couple or two friends seeking a simple but refined accommodation.
- Anahata Verde: this spacious triple room of 30 square meters offers two single beds and a raised bed, ideal for three adult travelers or a family with a teenager. Emerald green promotes relaxation and connection with nature.
- Ajna Turchese: a 16-square-meter double room with a French bed, combining blue and green to create a relaxing environment. It is perfect for couples looking for a love nest to rediscover serenity.
- Sahasrara Viola: a double room of 20 square meters with two single beds, ideal for friends or relatives travelling together but wanting separate beds. Violet, the color of spirituality, offers a deep sense of calm.
- Muladhara Rosso: the shared room, with two single beds and a bunk sofa bed, offers an economical and convivial solution for groups of friends or single travelers who want to share the experience with others. Warm red tones provide energy and vitality.
Each room is tastefully furnished, mixing restored antique furniture and contemporary touches. All rooms have large windows or balconies overlooking the garden or mountains, modern bathrooms with showers and courtesy sets, free Wi-Fi and independent heating. Some rooms include double bathrooms, ideal for longer stays or guests requiring more privacy.
Common spaces and services
The heart of our villa is the common living room, an open area where guests can socialize. Here you will find comfortable sofas, a large table for board games or planning excursions, a small library with tourist guides and novels, and a corner for tasting teas and organic herbal teas. In winter the fireplace radiates pleasant warmth, while in summer the French doors open onto the porch, allowing you to enjoy the breeze.
In the morning we serve a generous continental breakfast in the dedicated room: homemade cakes and cookies, artisanal jams, local honey, yogurt and fresh milk, cereals, seasonal fruit and a selection of typical cold cuts and cheeses. On request we prepare vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free or lactose-free options. Hot drinks are prepared at the moment and served at the table, to start the day with the right energy.
For those who practice yoga or meditation, we have a room with a wooden floor and large windows overlooking the garden. Mats, cushions and blankets are available. During the year we organise guided sessions and small retreats, which guests can participate in with prior booking.
Among the included services we offer:
- Fast Wi-Fi connection throughout the property, suitable for those working remotely or wishing to stay connected.
- Private parking inside the park, lit at night and with easy access.
- Sports equipment storage for bikes, skis and strollers, with a washing area for mountain bikes.
- Children’s play area with swings and safe spaces where little ones can have fun under their parents’ watchful eye.
- Flexible check-in with the possibility of evening arrival upon notice, thanks to a smart access system.
- Family kit on request, including a travel cot, high chair, bottle warmer and bed guards.
- Pet-friendly: some rooms are prepared to welcome small pets; we require an extra cleaning fee to ensure hygienic standards for all guests.
Experiences and activities in the surroundings
The position of our villa allows you to easily explore the most beautiful attractions in the area. Within half an hour by car you reach the peak of Mottarone, a panoramic mountain that in summer offers hiking and mountain biking trails and in winter ski slopes and snowshoeing trails. Along the slopes there are refuges and Alpine huts offering typical dishes such as polenta concia, fresh cheeses and local cured meats.
Golf lovers? A few kilometers away are two of the most prestigious courses in northern Italy: the Golf des Iles Borromées, known for its holes overlooking spectacular panoramas, and the Golf Club Alpino di Stresa, the oldest in the region. We provide information about lessons with professional instructors and preferential tee times for guests of our guesthouse.
You can’t miss a trip to Stresa on the shores of Lake Maggiore. From there boats depart for the Borromean Islands: Isola Bella, with its majestic baroque palace and terraced gardens; Isola Madre, with its rare exotic plants and peacocks roaming freely; and Isola dei Pescatori, characterised by a picturesque fishing village with artisan shops and fish restaurants. You can also visit the gardens of Villa Taranto in Verbania, a botanical park with collections of plants from around the world.
On the opposite side, Lake Orta will surprise you with the fairy-tale atmosphere of Orta San Giulio: cobbled streets, medieval palaces and the central square overlooking the lake. From there you can take a boat to the island of San Giulio, dominated by the Benedictine abbey. Nearby we recommend a walk to the Sacro Monte di Orta, a UNESCO heritage site, with chapels decorated with 17th century frescoes.
If you love unspoiled nature, the numerous trails around Gignese offer hikes of varying difficulty: from loop routes through chestnut forests to panoramic climbs towards lookout points. Local guides organise guided treks, night walks to discover Alpine fauna and mountain bike tours. For water lovers, we recommend days kayaking on Lake Orta or sailing trips on Lake Maggiore.
For culture enthusiasts, the area is rich in Romanesque churches, museums and sanctuaries. The Museum of the Umbrella and Parasol in Gignese tells the story of a unique artisan tradition in Italy; the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso, set in a rock overlooking Lake Maggiore, offers suggestive views. The weekly markets in nearby towns are also an opportunity to discover local products, clothing and crafts.
Why choose our guesthouse and B&B San Bernardino Verbano
If you’re travelling with family, as a couple or alone, our guesthouse is a versatile solution that combines the convenience of a holiday home with the personalised services of a small hotel. Here are some reasons why our guests choose us and come back:
- Family-friendly and discreet atmosphere: although the structure is spacious, we keep a limited number of rooms to ensure each guest a warm and attentive welcome. Our family lives on the lowest floor of the villa and we are always available for advice, without invading your privacy.
- Elegant and functional spaces: the villa offers well-kept common areas, such as the breakfast room, the living room with fireplace and the yoga room. These spaces are ideal for convivial moments or for dedicating yourself to hobbies and relaxation.
- Rooms for 2, 3 or 4 people, as well as a shared room: the variety of types allows us to meet different needs, from couples seeking intimacy to families with children and friends wishing to share the experience.
- Convenient location for Stresa, Mottarone and the lakes: the central location allows you to move easily between the most beautiful destinations in the region, avoiding long trips. We are just minutes from the A26 motorway exit and from the Stresa and Verbania-Pallanza stations.
- Relaxation, nature, outdoor activities: the villa’s park and the nearby trails invite relaxation and sport. Whether you want to do yoga at sunset, read under a tree or embark on a mountain trek, you’ll find the ideal setting here.
- Services designed for comfort: from the genuine breakfast to the internal parking, from the family kit to the fast Wi-Fi connection, everything is designed to make your stay carefree. On request we organise transfers to and from the airport, car and bicycle rentals, restaurant reservations and guided activities.
Tips for your stay
To make the most of your vacation, we suggest bringing comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing for cooler evenings even in summer, and sunscreen for days on the lake. If you plan to visit the Borromean Islands or other popular places, it’s advisable to book tickets in advance, especially in high season. The best times to explore the towns are early morning or late afternoon, when the light is softer and there are fewer crowds.
During the summer, temperatures at 700 meters remain pleasant, rarely exceeding twenty-seven degrees. At night, a light sheet is often enough. In spring the blossoms make the landscape colourful and fragrant, while in autumn the forests turn red and gold, creating a romantic atmosphere. Winter can be harsh, but it offers clear days ideal for snowshoeing and enjoying the quiet.
Sustainability and respect for the environment
We believe in responsible and sustainable tourism. That’s why we adopt good practices such as using low-energy light bulbs, sorting waste and using cleaning products with a reduced environmental impact. We purchase raw materials from local producers to support the local economy and reduce transport emissions. We encourage our guests to reuse towels and turn off lights and devices when not in use, in respect of our planet.
Accessibility and useful notes
Being a historic building, the villa has some steps and level differences that may make access difficult for those with reduced mobility. However, some rooms on the ground floor and the common areas are easily accessible. We invite you to let us know of any special needs at the time of booking: we will be happy to advise you on the most suitable accommodation and to offer you support during your stay. On request we provide additional pillows, non-slip mats and other accessories to make your stay more comfortable.
How to reach us
- By car: from the A26, take the Carpugnino or Baveno exit and follow the signs to Gignese. Our villa is located at Salita Rognoni 10. Free parking is available inside the park.
- By train: the nearest railway stations are Stresa and Verbania-Pallanza, served by regional and long-distance trains. From the stations you can take a taxi or a local bus that stops close to the villa.
- By plane: the reference airports are Milan Malpensa (about 45 minutes by car) and Milan Linate (about 1.5 hours). On request we can organise a private transfer service.
- By bike: cycle tourists will find scenic routes with moderate climbs. We have secure storage and a washing area for bicycles.
Bookings and contacts
Booking your room in our B&B San Bernardino Verbano is simple: you can contact us by phone, email or use the online form on our site. We will be happy to answer all your questions and help you choose the most suitable solution for your needs.
- Phone/WhatsApp: +39 372 67 50
- Email: info@homehartmann.com
- Address: Salita Rognoni 10, 28836 Gignese (VB), Italy
By booking directly through our site, you are guaranteed the best rate and flexible cancellation conditions. You can choose the number of guests, the dates of your stay and any extras such as a crib, pets or private yoga lessons. You will receive an immediate confirmation and all the information you need for your arrival.
Conclusion
Staying at our guesthouse and B&B San Bernardino Verbano means living an authentic experience between two of Italy’s most beautiful lakes. Our historic villa, surrounded by a lush park and equipped with modern comforts, is a perfect retreat for those who want relaxation, nature and culture. Whether you are a solo traveler seeking tranquility, a couple looking for romance, a family eager for adventure or a group of friends wanting to share special moments, here you will find a warm welcome, courtesy and countless opportunities to enrich your stay. Contact us and let yourself be won over by the magic of the Verbano-Cusio-Ossola.
Gastronomy and flavors of Piedmont
The local cuisine is a treasure to discover. In the nearby restaurants you can enjoy traditional dishes such as “paniscia” (a risotto with beans and cabbage), “gnocchi all’ossolana” with chestnut flour, and “polenta concia” enriched with melted cheese. The lakes offer fish delicacies such as perch and rainbow trout, served with herbs and light side dishes. Don’t forget to try the sweets: the “torta di pane” and the “margheritine di Stresa” are irresistible.
For wine lovers, the nearby area of the Novara Hills produces interesting labels such as Boca DOC and Ghemme DOCG, full-bodied and fragrant red wines. If you want a complete wine and food experience, we can book guided tours of wineries with tastings for you. Local farms offer educational tours where you can watch the stages of winemaking and discover the secrets of producing cured meats and cheeses.
Book your guesthouse and B&B San Bernardino Verbano now
To experience an authentic stay in the heart of the Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, book your room now at Hartmann Feel at home, guesthouse and B&B San Bernardino Verbano. Contact us by phone at +39 372 67 50, write to info@homehartmann.com or visit us at Salita Rognoni 10, 28836 Gignese (VB). We look forward to welcoming you between Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta and making you feel at home.