Introduction
Arona is a charming lakeside town at the southern tip of Lake Maggiore. It boasts a medieval historic center filled with cobbled streets and elegant shops, all fronted by a scenic waterfront promenade. The town comes alive on market days – every Tuesday morning vendors line the lakeside selling local produce, foods, and crafts, making for a lively open-air market scene. Strolling along Arona’s lungolago (lakefront) offers beautiful views across the water, with plenty of cafés and benches to relax. Arona is also famous as the birthplace of Saint Charles Borromeo – a fact literally made larger-than-life by the towering Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo (nicknamed “Sancarlone”), a 35-meter copper statue on a hill above town. This statue, completed in 1698, can be climbed inside for panoramic views and is one of Arona’s iconic landmarks. With its pleasant piazzas, weekly markets, and the mix of history and lakefront leisure, Arona makes a welcoming base for travelers exploring Lake Maggiore’s southern shores.
Why Stay with Hartmann Feel At Home
Although Hartmann Feel At Home is technically located in Gignese (a quiet village about 30 minutes north of Arona by car), it stands out as an ideal lodging base for visiting Arona and its surroundings. This lovingly renovated 1930s villa was designed so that every guest truly “feels at home.” As the family owners say, their goal is “to treat every customer as we would like to be treated” – with kindness, respect, and warmth. In practice, this means spacious, well-equipped rooms and a friendly, personal atmosphere. The multilingual hosts (English, Italian, German, French) are known for their hospitality – happy to provide local tips, help with restaurant reservations or even point you toward a hidden beach or scenic trail. Guests consistently praise Hartmann’s warm welcome, the quiet garden setting, and the great value for money. In fact, staying here feels like being an honored guest in a home rather than a number in a hotel.
For couples and families, Hartmann offers far more space and comfort than a typical in-town hotel – at a lower price. You’ll have room to spread out and relax in the evenings, while Arona’s attractions are still within a short, scenic drive by day. The villa’s hillside location (about 700 m above sea level) means cooler summer nights and fresh air, a nice break after warm days by the lake. Despite the tranquil setting, Arona’s lakeside fun is easily accessible – it’s roughly a 25–30 minute drive down to the town. In other words, you can enjoy Arona’s lively vibe during the day, then retreat to the peace of Hartmann’s gardens at night.
Family-Friendly Comfort: Hartmann Feel At Home truly lives up to its name for families traveling with children. They provide lots of kid-friendly amenities so parents can pack light and relax. For example:
- Kids’ Gear: The B&B can set up cribs, highchairs, step stools and night-lights on request, so you don’t need to lug along baby equipment.
- Safe Play Space: A fully fenced garden allows children to play outside safely, surrounded by trees and grass instead of traffic. There are even toys, games and books provided to keep young guests entertained.
- Kitchenette Convenience: Many rooms include a small kitchen area (with a microwave and fridge), handy for warming bottles or fixing a quick snack for little ones. This is a big plus for families with infants and toddlers.
All of these thoughtful touches make it easy for families and couples to feel pampered without paying high hotel prices. Hartmann’s relaxed, homey environment is also great for couples seeking a peaceful retreat. The hosts are attentive but never intrusive – whether you need an extra blanket or a dinner recommendation, they are there to help with a smile. And if you’re a budget-conscious traveler (perhaps backpacking solo), you’ll appreciate that Hartmann offers hostel-like options (a shared dorm room) along with the usual private rooms, ensuring there’s an affordable choice for everyone (more on that below). Importantly, free private parking and flexible check-in/out are provided, making arrival stress-free – no need to navigate Arona’s sometimes busy streets in search of parking. In short, Hartmann Feel At Home is a warm, welcoming oasis of comfort and hospitality – a budget-friendly, family-focused alternative to staying in Arona’s town center, yet close enough to enjoy Arona anytime.
Accommodation Overview
Hartmann Feel At Home features six uniquely decorated bedrooms plus a budget-friendly shared room, all with bright colors and personal touches (each room is themed after a different color/chakra). There’s a variety of room sizes to suit couples, families, or solo travelers. For example, the Swadhisthana Orange family suite is a 50 m² quadruple suite that actually consists of two connected rooms – it has two single beds in one room and a sofa bed in an adjoining room (which can be separated by a sliding door). This setup is ideal for a family of four or even two couples traveling together, since it provides both togetherness and a bit of privacy. On the other hand, cozier options for couples include the Manipura Yellow double room (16.5 m², featuring a French double bed) and the Ajna Turquoise double (16 m², also with a double bed). These charming double rooms are perfect for couples seeking a quiet, romantic hideaway in the hills.
For small groups or families up to three, Hartmann offers the Anahata Green triple room (30 m²) – it has two single beds plus a raised loft-style bed, a fun option for kids or friends traveling together. There’s also a 20 m² twin room called Sahasrara Purple, with two single beds side-by-side (great for two friends or older kids). Each of the private rooms at Hartmann comes with its own modern bathroom (most are en-suite, featuring walk-in showers, fresh towels and toiletries). Beds are outfitted with soft, 100% Italian linens for a comfortable night’s sleep. Large windows in every room look out onto the gardens or surrounding greenery, letting in natural light and offering tranquil views of trees – so you always remember you’re in a beautiful villa in the mountains.
Dormitory Option: Uniquely, Hartmann Feel At Home also has a shared room (dormitory) known as the Muladhara Red room. This is a 20 m² shared accommodation with three beds (two single beds and a bunk-style sofa bed) that can host up to 3 guests. It’s a great choice for solo travelers or backpackers on a budget, as you can book just a single bed here (1 adult per bed) and share the room with other travelers – hostel-style. The dorm room has private lockers for each guest and access to a shared bathroom (shared only with others in that dorm) that is kept very clean. If the shared room is booked by a small group of two people together, the hosts will even convert the extra bunk room into a sitting room so you have more space to lounge. This flexible setup ensures everyone from solo adventurers to friend groups can find an option that fits their budget and needs.
Throughout the villa, you’ll notice the décor is warm and thoughtful. Each room is decorated in a different color theme with natural wood furniture and artistic touches that give the place character. Despite being a historic mansion, everything inside was fully renovated in 2022, so you get modern comforts like fast Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, and stylish bathrooms, all in a classic setting. Guests also have access to several common areas that add to the “feel at home” vibe: there’s a bright breakfast room (with colorful decor and big windows) where everyone starts the day together, a cozy main hall with a circular fireplace for relaxing in the evenings, and even an on-site yoga room for those who want to stretch or meditate.
Every morning, Hartmann serves a generous homemade breakfast (included in the stay). The owners describe it as a “Mediterranean and international breakfast,” which in practice means you’ll find a mix of local and familiar morning foods. Expect fresh breads and pastries, yogurt, jams, seasonal fruits, cereals, and more – often sourced from local producers. They are happy to adapt the breakfast for children’s tastes or any special diets (just let them know). You can enjoy your breakfast coffee while looking out at the garden, planning your adventures for the day. With spacious rooms, modern facilities, and a peaceful green setting, Hartmann Feel At Home offers all the comfort and convenience of a home – making it a perfect base in the hills near Arona for couples, families, and even solo travelers.
Why Choose Hartmann Feel at Home for Your Stay Near Arona?
Because true relaxation begins just beyond the town—where space, silence, and nature meet.
Arona, with its lively lakefront, boutique shops, elegant squares, and the iconic Colossus of San Carlo, is one of the most vibrant towns on Lake Maggiore’s southern shore.
But if you’re looking to balance the energy of Arona with restorative calm, consider staying just a scenic drive away in the hills above Stresa, where you’ll find Hartmann Feel at Home – a guesthouse designed for those who seek more than a bed. It’s a place to breathe, to feel, and to reconnect.
Here’s why thoughtful travelers visiting Arona choose Hartmann Feel at Home:
✔️ Close enough for convenience, far enough for peace
In about 30–35 minutes, you’ll go from Arona’s lakeside cafés and vibrant streets to the serene greenery of Gignese. No noise, no rush—just trees, birdsong, and wide-open skies.
✔️ Spacious rooms with a soul
Our apartments are filled with natural light, soft materials, and calming colors. Whether you’re visiting Arona for shopping, history, or a lakeside stroll, coming home to Hartmann feels like exhaling.
✔️ Perfect for couples, families, and slow travelers
From romantic getaways to family adventures or solo escapes, our guesthouse offers flexibility: baby gear, extra beds, books, toys, and plenty of room to spread out—both inside and outdoors.
✔️ A breakfast to ground your day
Enjoy fresh, local ingredients each morning: fruit, bread, jam, yogurt, and special options for children or dietary needs. Breakfast at Hartmann isn’t rushed—it’s enjoyed.
✔️ Wellness and quiet, whenever you need it
After climbing to the Colossus or strolling Arona’s Corso Cavour, rest in our garden, soak in the outdoor whirlpool, or find your calm in the meditation and yoga room. Here, silence is part of the service.
✔️ A base to explore the lake with ease
Arona, Stresa, the Borromean Islands, Verbania, Cannero, Lake Orta – all within reach. Stay in the hills and let the lake unfold at your own pace, one peaceful journey at a time.
✔️ Welcoming hosts who speak your language—and listen
We’re here to make your stay special. Need ferry schedules? Want a quiet spot for lunch in Arona? Looking for hidden lake views or forest trails? Just ask—we’re happy to help in English, Italian, German, or French.
Whether you’re visiting Arona for its vibrant charm, historical sights, or lakefront sunsets, Hartmann Feel at Home offers something deeper: a place to rest, reflect, and truly feel at home.
Because the best way to experience Lake Maggiore…
is to rise just above it—into the calm, the green, and the feeling of being exactly where you belong.
Where to Eat in Arona
One of the perks of staying near Arona is the variety of food options available when you venture into town. Arona has a great selection of restaurants, gelaterias, pizzerias and cafés to fit every budget and travel style – whether you’re a couple seeking a romantic dinner by the lake or a family looking for a casual bite. Here are a few recommended spots in Arona:
- Gelateria Marcella (Gelato, $) – If you have a sweet tooth, this is a must-stop in Arona. Gelateria Marcella is often hailed as one of the best gelato shops in town – many visitors rave that it’s “the best they’ve ever tasted.” They offer a huge range of flavors (including some vegan and dairy-free options) using artisanal methods. On a warm evening, join the locals in a passeggiata (stroll) along the promenade with a cone from Marcella in hand. It’s the perfect budget-friendly treat after dinner.
- Pizzeria Tre Ponti (Pizza, $) – A casual pizzeria located not far from the train station, popular with both locals and tourists for its delicious and affordable pizzas. Tre Ponti has a large menu of toppings to choose from, and the atmosphere is no-frills and family-friendly (they’re used to kids!). The service is quick and friendly, and notably they even offer gluten-free pizza bases on request – making it a versatile choice if someone in your group has dietary restrictions. It’s perfect for an easy, budget dinner or a quick lunch between sightseeing – you can fill up on authentic Italian pizza without breaking the bank.
- Trattoria Toscana (Tuscan & Piedmontese, $$) – Don’t let the name fool you; while this cozy trattoria takes inspiration from Tuscan cuisine, it also serves plenty of local Piedmontese specialties. Tucked on a side street a few blocks from the lake, Trattoria Toscana is family-run with a warm, rustic interior – think checkered tablecloths and a friendly owner greeting you at the door. The menu might feature dishes like pici al ragù (a Tuscan pasta) alongside Piedmont classics such as vitello tonnato or local lake fish. It’s a reliable mid-range choice for a hearty dinner, offering authentic flavors in a laid-back setting. Couples will appreciate the reasonably priced wine list with regional wines, and families will feel comfortable here as well.
- Ristorante da Aldo (Lake Fish & Italian, $$$) – For a special night out, consider Da Aldo, one of Arona’s most renowned restaurants. Located along the lakeside promenade, it offers both indoor and outdoor seating with lovely views of the lake. The menu highlights Lake Maggiore’s freshwater fish – think dishes like lavarello (whitefish) fillets sautéed in butter and sage, perch risotto, or other seasonal catches from the lake. Of course, they also serve plenty of non-fish options (pasta, meats) but the local fish is a highlight here. With its elegant presentation and prime location, Da Aldo is ideal for couples seeking a romantic dinner by the water or anyone celebrating a special occasion. It is on the pricier side (€€€), but the combination of quality food and view is worth it for a treat.
- La Cambusa (Café/Bistro, $) – By day, Arona has numerous casual cafés perfect for a light bite or drink, and La Cambusa is a great example. This is a small lakeside café and bar that offers sandwiches, salads, and aperitifs. It’s the kind of place where you can stop in the late afternoon for a spritz and some snacks, or grab a quick panino for lunch. In the warmer months, they set out a few outdoor tables right by the water – the ideal spot to sip an espresso or gelato while watching the boats on the lake. La Cambusa proves you don’t need to spend a lot to enjoy the lakefront atmosphere; it’s casual, inexpensive, and hits the spot for a quick meal or drink with a view.
(Price guide: “$” = budget-friendly, “$$” = mid-range, “$$$” = higher-end.)
In addition to these picks, simply wandering Arona’s streets will reveal many other options – from cozy wine bars to family-run pizzerias. Along the Corso Cavour and around Piazza del Popolo you’ll find gelaterias for an after-dinner ice cream and plenty of sidewalk cafés for your morning cappuccino. In the evenings, join the locals for an aperitivo: many bars offer a fixed price for a drink with complimentary snacks around 6–7pm. Whether you’re craving a simple pizza or a gourmet fish dinner, Arona’s dining scene offers something for every taste. And don’t forget to enjoy a scoop of gelato on the promenade at sunset – it’s one of the simple pleasures of this lakeside town.
What to Do Around Arona
Arona may be relatively small, but it packs in a lot of activities and serves as a convenient hub for exploring the Lake Maggiore region. Here are some of the best things to do in and around Arona:
- Lakeside Strolls and Markets: Begin with a leisurely walk along Arona’s lungolago promenade, which offers lovely views of Lake Maggiore and the distant Alps. The tree-lined waterfront is perfect for a romantic walk or a family bike ride. Along the way, you’ll find playgrounds and green spaces where you can sit and relax while the kids play. If you’re visiting on a Tuesday, be sure to catch Arona’s open-air market (8:00–13:00) when dozens of stalls fill the lakefront selling everything from fresh produce and cheese to clothes and handicrafts. It’s a lively local event and a great chance to pick up some picnic items or souvenirs. On other days, you can still enjoy the waterfront – grab a gelato and watch the boats, or even have a picnic in the little park areas. As evening falls, the lakeside is a popular spot for an aperitivo – join the locals sipping spritzes as the sun sets over the water.
- Explore Arona’s Historic Centre and Shopping Streets: Arona’s downtown is compact and easily walkable, with a mix of historical sights and modern boutiques. Start at Corso Cavour, the main pedestrian shopping street, which is lined with all manner of shops, from stylish clothing boutiques to artisan food stores. This cobbled street still retains an old-world charm and leads straight to Piazza del Popolo, the picturesque lakefront square that was once the old market square and port. In Piazza del Popolo, you can admire the 15th-century Broletto (ancient courthouse) and the Santa Marta Church, both historic buildings fronting the square. For an even deeper dive into history, wander up from the lake into the narrow backstreets – you’ll find the Collegiata di Santa Maria (Arona’s main church, with artwork by local painters) and other small churches tucked between shops and cafés. The town center is great for shopping Made in Italy goods or simply people-watching from a café. Don’t miss trying a local pastry at one of the bakeries! Even if you’re not on a big spending spree, the mix of Renaissance and Baroque architecture around you makes a simple walk through Arona’s streets quite enjoyable.
- Visit the Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo: A trip to Arona isn’t complete without seeing the Sancarlone, the colossal statue of Saint Charles Borromeo that overlooks the town. You can drive (or hike, if feeling energetic) about 2 km up the hill to reach the statue’s park. The copper statue is 35 meters tall and stands on an 11 m granite pedestal – when it was completed in 1698 it was one of the tallest statues in the world. From the terrace at its base, you get a fantastic view of Lake Maggiore and Arona below. For a small fee, you can actually go inside the statue and climb up a spiral staircase and then an internal ladder into the statue’s body and up to the viewing windows in its chest and eyes! It’s an adventurous climb (not recommended for very young kids or anyone afraid of heights/claustrophobia, as it involves a vertical ladder inside), but the payoff is a unique experience – you can literally stand inside the head of the saint and look out at the panorama. Even if you don’t climb, the surrounding area (the Sacro Monte di Arona) has a peaceful garden with picnic tables and a few art sculptures, making it a nice outing. The San Carlo statue is a proud symbol of Arona’s heritage, and the sheer size of it will amaze you. Bring a camera – from the base you can get an epic shot of the statue with the lake in the background.
- Rocca di Arona and Park: On the north end of town, perched on a rocky hill, lie the ruins of the Rocca Borromea di Arona – the old Borromeo fortress. This castle dates back over 1,000 years and was once a strategic stronghold paired with the Rocca di Angera across the lake. Historically it was controlled by Milanese lords and later the Borromeo family (in fact, Saint Charles Borromeo was born within the fortress walls in 1538). Though the fortress was largely destroyed by Napoleon in 1800, today the site has been turned into a beautiful public park. You can reach the park via a short uphill walk from the center (or drive up and park nearby). Entry is free. Locals simply call it “La Rocca,” and it’s a favorite spot for panoramic views and relaxation. You can wander among the ruins (informative signs tell you what each part was) and then find a spot on the grass or at a picnic table to soak in the amazing view – from the Rocca’s vantage point you see the entire town of Arona below, the lake stretching out, and even the Angera castle across the water. There’s a small café up there in summer, and often families bring kids to run around or couples come up for sunset. It’s a peaceful escape from the bustle of town and offers the best photo ops in Arona. History buffs will enjoy imagining the castle that once stood, but even children will mostly just remember it as a fun “castle ruin” to explore.
- Ferry Trips on Lake Maggiore: Arona has a boat pier with regular ferry and boat service, so be sure to take advantage of this to explore beyond the town. One popular short trip is the ferry to Angera, directly across the lake in Lombardy – it’s a quick ride that drops you near the medieval Rocca di Angera castle. Visiting Angera’s fortress is highly recommended: it’s fully intact and houses a fascinating Museum of Dolls and Toys, which is a hit with kids (and a nostalgic trip for adults!). The castle sits atop a hill, offering yet more stunning lake views from its ramparts. Another wonderful day trip by boat is to head north to the famous Borromean Islands. While the main ferry terminals for the islands are in Stresa and Baveno, some routes from Arona (especially in summer) go to Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Madre – the trio of enchanting islands known for palatial villas and gardens. Even if there’s no direct Arona boat on your schedule, you can take a ferry or train up to Stresa (which is only ~15 km away) and catch a boat from there. The Borromean Islands are a must-see: you can tour the Baroque Borromeo Palace and terraced gardens on Isola Bella, have lunch in the fishing village on Isola dei Pescatori, and stroll the botanical gardens of Isola Madre – all in one day. The ferry ride itself is pleasant, offering views of the coastline and villas. Lastly, boat excursions can also take you further up the lake (some go all the way to Switzerland on certain days), or to other lakeside towns like Locarno or Cannobio on market day – check the schedules at the Arona pier. Being on the water is one of the joys of Lake Maggiore, so definitely plan for at least one boat trip during your stay.
- Nearby Day Trips and Activities: Arona’s location makes it easy to venture out and experience more of the region in half-day or full-day trips. If you have a car (or even if not, with a bit of transit), you can explore places like Stresa and Monte Mottarone easily. In Stresa (a 30-minute drive or 20-minute train ride north), you can catch the cable car up to the summit of Mottarone (1,492 m). The ride up is spectacular, and from the top you get a 360° view encompassing seven different lakes on clear days! In summer, Mottarone’s summit is great for hiking, picnics, or even trying the Alpyland alpine coaster (a fun bob-sled roller coaster on rails down the mountain side) which both kids and adults love. In winter, Mottarone offers skiing and sledding. Another lovely excursion is to Lake Orta, a smaller lake west of Arona. It’s about a 40-minute drive to the town of Orta San Giulio, which is often described as one of Italy’s most beautiful villages. Stroll its traffic-free streets and take a short boat ride to the island of San Giulio, known for a serene monastery – the atmosphere is magical and a nice contrast to Lake Maggiore’s bustle. Closer by, if you’re a golfer, note that there are two excellent golf courses in the immediate vicinity of Gignese (Golf des Iles Borromées and Alpino di Stresa). And for a family with kids, other attractions within 30 minutes include the Villa Pallavicino wildlife park in Stresa (with petting zoo and gardens) and the renowned Villa Taranto botanical gardens in Verbania. Finally, for those interested in a bigger city trip, Milan is only about 1 hour away by train from Arona – feasible if you crave some metropolitan culture or shopping for a day. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural sights or just more lake-hopping, Arona is a convenient jumping-off point. After each excursion, you can return “home” to the tranquility of Hartmann in the hills, feeling far from the crowds.
No matter how you choose to spend your days – be it relaxing by Arona’s lakeshore or touring around the region – you’ll find plenty to do to fill an itinerary of several days around Lake Maggiore. Arona offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration: lakeside lounging one day, castle-hopping or mountain views the next. And with Hartmann Feel At Home as your base, you always have a peaceful haven to come back to at night.
Booking and Contact Information
Ready to book your stay at Hartmann Feel At Home? The B&B makes it easy to reserve a room. You can book directly on their official website (HomeHartmann.com) or via their online booking portal. For any questions or special requests, you can also reach out by email at info@homehartmann.com or call +39 349 3726750 – the owners are very responsive and happy to assist. The full address of the property is:
Hartmann Feel At Home – Salita Rognoni 10, 28836 Gignese (VB), Italy.
Getting there from Arona: If you are driving, it’s a straightforward trip. Take the A26 (Autostrada dei Trafori) north toward Gravellona, and exit at Carpugnino/Stresa (or at Arona and follow local roads) – from the Arona town center the drive is about 25 km (~30 minutes). From the highway exit, follow the signs up the hill toward Gignese; Hartmann’s villa is easy to find in Gignese and has free private parking on-site for guests. The road up is scenic, winding through woods and offering occasional glimpses of the lake below. By public transport, you can take a train from Arona to Stresa (only a 15-minute ride on the Milan–Domodossola line), then a short taxi up to Gignese (about 7 km from Stresa). There are also local buses that run between Arona and Stresa, and in summer some bus routes go up towards Gignese/Mottarone from Stresa – you could inquire locally about the timetable, or the Hartmann hosts can advise you. If coming directly from abroad, note that Milan Malpensa Airport is only about 30 km away (a 40-minute drive) from Arona, making this area one of the easiest Lake Maggiore destinations to reach after flying in.
Once you arrive in Gignese, finding Hartmann is simple (Google Maps or the hosts’ directions will guide you right to the gate). Despite being tucked away in a quiet hillside neighborhood, the B&B is well signposted. The owners typically will ask for your approximate arrival time and can accommodate late check-ins if needed – they are very flexible to ensure your travel is stress-free.
In summary, Hartmann Feel At Home provides all the practical info and assistance you need for a smooth stay. Whether you arrive by car or via train/bus, getting to Hartmann is straightforward, and the hosts can always be contacted for last-mile guidance. It truly lives up to its name – offering a peaceful, family- and budget-friendly home base for enjoying Arona and Lake Maggiore. With your lodging sorted, you can focus on making the most of your vacation: exploring the lake’s beauty by day and returning to a cozy “home” in the evening.
Book your stay now and look forward to experiencing Arona’s lakeside charm and Hartmann’s warm hospitality on your next Italian adventure!