Introduction
Cannobio is a picturesque lakeside town on Lake Maggiore, nestled near the Swiss border as the last Italian town before entering Switzerland. Steeped in historic charm, its cobbled streets and pastel-hued buildings date back centuries, lending the town a timeless, romantic atmosphere. Cannobio’s lakefront promenade is celebrated as one of the most beautiful on Lake Maggiore – a vibrant waterfront lined with cafés, boutiques, and candy-colored facades. Every Sunday, this promenade bursts to life during the weekly market, when stalls selling local cheeses, produce, crafts, and more stretch along the lakeshore, creating a lively open-air bazaar with a festive atmosphere. Between its historic center, bustling Sunday market, and scenic lakeside walks, Cannobio offers visitors an enchanting blend of culture and leisure against the stunning backdrop of the lake and Alps.
Why Stay with Hartmann Feel At Home
Hartmann Feel At Home is an idyllic base for exploring Cannobio and the Lake Maggiore region, especially for couples, families, and budget-conscious travelers. Located in the quiet village of Gignese (near Stresa) about a 50-minute scenic drive from Cannobio, this family-run B&B offers tranquility and comfort in equal measure. The property is a lovingly restored 1930s villa perched 700 meters up in the hills above Lake Maggiore, providing cooler temperatures, fresh mountain air, and peaceful surroundings away from the tourist crowds. Guests describe it as a true retreat “amid lush gardens and mountain vistas,” where nature and silence create a relaxing haven after a day of sightseeing.
Staying at Hartmann Feel At Home also means experiencing personalized hospitality that lives up to its name. The hosts make every guest feel like part of the family, embodying values of kindness, courtesy, respect, trust, love and freedom in their service. Travelers consistently praise the warm, attentive care – from helpful local tips to little touches like a welcome drink on the terrace – noting that the owners “treat you like kin” rather than just customers. This welcoming, homey atmosphere is paired with modern comforts and an emphasis on value. In fact, Hartmann offers excellent comfort for the price, with well-appointed rooms, a rich breakfast, and amenities like free Wi-Fi and parking – all at very fair rates that budget travelers appreciate.
Equally important, Hartmann Feel At Home is suitable for all kinds of guests. Couples find it ideal for a romantic getaway thanks to its intimate, charming rooms and serene garden settings. Families love the spacious suites and the safe, open park space for children to play, as well as the hosts’ accommodating nature. Solo travelers and backpackers aren’t left out either – the B&B even features a shared dorm-style room for those on a tighter budget or traveling alone, fostering a social hostel vibe within the comfort of a villa B&B. In short, Hartmann offers a peaceful hilltop refuge with personalized, friendly service and affordable pricing, all while keeping you within easy reach of Cannobio and the lake’s attractions by car. It’s the perfect compromise for travelers who want to experience Cannobio by day but return to a calm, comfortable retreat each night.
Why Choose Hartmann Feel at Home Near Cannobio and Lake Maggiore?
Because peaceful travel begins with a place that feels like home.
If you’re planning a visit to Cannobio – one of the most picturesque towns on Lake Maggiore, known for its colorful waterfront, historic alleys, Sunday market, and Swiss-Italian charm – consider staying just a short drive away, in the quiet green hills above Stresa.
That’s where you’ll find Hartmann Feel at Home: a welcoming, family-run guesthouse designed for travelers who value calm, comfort, and meaningful moments. It’s not just where you sleep – it’s where you reconnect.
Here’s why Hartmann Feel at Home is the perfect base for exploring Cannobio and the northern lakeshore:
✔️ Easy to reach, far from the crowds
From Hartmann, you can reach Cannobio in about 30–35 minutes by car along one of the most scenic drives of Lake Maggiore. Enjoy your day by the lakeside, then return to the quiet of the hills for a restful evening under the stars.
✔️ Tranquil, natural spaces to recharge
Our guesthouse offers spacious, light-filled apartments decorated with wood, stone, and soft colors. After walking Cannobio’s charming streets or visiting the Orrido gorge, you’ll appreciate the silence and serenity of your private space.
✔️ Ideal for couples, families, and slow travelers
Whether you’re on a romantic escape, traveling with kids, or exploring the lake at your own pace, Hartmann provides thoughtful amenities: cribs, extra beds, children’s books and toys, and outdoor spaces to relax or play.
✔️ A breakfast full of care and flavor
Start your morning with a nourishing breakfast: fresh bread, local jams, yogurt, fruits, and plant-based or gluten-free options available. It’s a moment of peace before the day begins.
✔️ Relaxation after lakeside adventures
Take a dip in the garden whirlpool, read on the terrace, or enjoy a mindful moment in the yoga and meditation room. After a boat ride, swim, or day at the Cannobio market, it’s the perfect way to unwind.
✔️ A green base to explore the whole region
From here, you can easily reach Cannobio, Verbania, Stresa, the Borromean Islands, Lake Orta, and the valleys of Ossola – all while returning each evening to nature, quiet, and the warmth of a real home.
✔️ Helpful, multilingual hosts
We’re happy to help you plan your day, recommend scenic routes, hidden restaurants, or quiet picnic spots. We speak English, Italian, German, and French – and we love this region.
Whether you’re visiting Cannobio for the lake, the food, the history, or the atmosphere, Hartmann Feel at Home offers something the lakeside can’t: true calm, space to breathe, and the feeling of being cared for.
Because sometimes, the best way to enjoy Cannobio…
is to stay just above the lake—with silence, nature, and that rare sense of home.
Accommodation Overview
Hartmann Feel At Home features six unique guest rooms (plus one shared dormitory), each named after a chakra color and thoughtfully designed to meet different needs. Families or groups have great options in the two family suites: Swadhisthana Arancione, a spacious quadruple suite around 50 m² with two adjoining rooms (separated by a sliding door) that can accommodate up to 4 guests, and Indaco Vishuddha, a 31 m² suite with two single beds and a sofa bed, perfect for a family of four or two couples traveling together. These suites provide plenty of room to spread out, and open directly onto the villa’s garden or have multiple windows with lovely views, creating a bright and relaxing ambiance.
For couples or solo travelers seeking a cozy hideaway, Hartmann offers several charming double rooms. For example, Manipura Giallo is a 16.5 m² double with a French-size bed (slightly wider than a standard double) – an intimate, sunny-yellow room overlooking the garden, ideal for two adults. Other double rooms like Ajna Turchese (Turquoise) and Sahasrara Viola (Violet) range from about 16–20 m², each decorated in soothing color palettes and equipped with modern en-suite bathrooms. There is also Anahata Verde, a triple room (~30 m²) featuring two single beds plus a loft-style third bed, which is great for a couple with a child or three friends traveling together. Every room blends the villa’s original character (vaulted ceilings, large windows, hardwood floors) with clean, updated furnishings and hotel comforts.
Uniquely, Hartmann Feel At Home even has a budget-friendly dormitory option: the Muladhara Rosso shared room. This is a 20 m² hostel-style dorm with two single beds and a bunk-style sofa bed, which can be booked by individual travelers looking to save money. The shared room has access to a shared bathroom on the same floor and retains the B&B’s cozy atmosphere while offering an economical choice for backpackers or solo adventurers. It’s an unusual feature for a B&B and speaks to Hartmann’s inclusive, “feel at home” philosophy.
No matter which room you choose, all guests enjoy a consistent set of amenities and services. Every room comes with a private bathroom (even the dorm has its designated facilities), complimentary Wi-Fi, plush linens and towels, and organic bath toiletries. Air conditioning and heating ensure year-round comfort, and several rooms include desks or seating nooks. Each morning, a generous breakfast is included – guests gather in the bright breakfast room or on the outdoor terrace to start the day with a buffet of local breads and pastries, fruits, cereals, and freshly made coffee (with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available). Guests can also relax in the villa’s common areas: a stylish lounge with a fireplace and a 5,000 m² garden dotted with century-old trees, sun loungers, and even a small pool and outdoor hot tub in summer. Whether you’re a couple on a romantic escape, a family on holiday, or a solo backpacker, Hartmann provides a comfortable home base tailored to your needs.
Where to Eat in Cannobio
One of the joys of visiting Cannobio is the food – this lakeside town has plenty of restaurants and cafés to satisfy all tastes, from casual pizzerias to intimate trattorias. Along the bustling promenade and in the quaint old town, you’ll find everything from family-friendly eateries to romantic dinner spots, many with terraces overlooking the water. Most places offer a mix of traditional Italian and regional Piemontese dishes (think fresh lake fish, risotto, and pasta galore), and many can accommodate dietary needs like vegetarian or gluten-free upon request. Here are a few recommended restaurants in Cannobio to consider, spanning various budgets and styles:
- Ristorante Paul – A top-rated restaurant right on the lakeside promenade, with a patio overlooking the marina. It’s known for its excellent location and friendly service. The menu includes elegant salads (their colorful creations make for a perfect light lunch) and Italian classics – their wood-fired pizzas and truffle risotto come highly recommended. It’s a lovely spot for a romantic dinner by the water or a relaxing aperitivo at sunset.
- Oggi Pasta – A cozy, tucked-away trattoria just a few minutes’ walk from the lakefront. As the name suggests, it specializes in pasta – and indeed, many say it serves some of the best pasta in town. The atmosphere is informal and welcoming (the staff are famously fabulous and friendly). Don’t miss their homemade cannelloni or whichever pasta special is on the board that day. With its quick service and reasonable prices, Oggi Pasta is a great choice for families and budget travelers craving authentic Italian comfort food.
- Lo Scalo – Situated along the main promenade, Lo Scalo offers lovely views of the lake from its outdoor tables. The menu features local lake fish and Piedmontese specialties – if you’re a seafood lover, try one of the fish dishes made with the day’s catch. They also reportedly serve the best tiramisu in town, so be sure to save room for dessert. Lo Scalo’s combination of scenery and fresh, local cuisine makes it ideal for a leisurely lunch or dinner with a view (reservations recommended in high season).
- Trattoria Cannobio da Ale & Vale – A charming, family-run trattoria tucked in a little side street, featuring a quaint interior and a small outdoor seating area. Their menu is extensive, offering everything from homemade pastas and thin-crust pizzas to hearty seafood dishes. Regulars rave about the signature homemade ravioli and vongole (clams) here. With its warm atmosphere and large portions, this trattoria is very family-friendly – yet it’s also intimate enough for a casual date night. The authentic home cooking and reasonable prices make it a local favorite.
Of course, these are just a few options. Cannobio also has gelato shops, wine bars, and cafés perfect for a quick bite or sweet treat. Strolling the promenade, you can grab creamy gelato or an espresso and watch the world go by. Whether you’re traveling on a shoestring or splurging on a romantic meal, Cannobio’s dining scene has something for everyone – and the welcoming local hospitality will make your meals here memorable.
What to Do Around Cannobio
Cannobio may be a small town, but it offers an abundance of activities and attractions in and around the area. Here are some highlights of what to do around Cannobio to fully experience its charm:
- Sunday Lakeside Market: If you’re in town on a Sunday, the weekly Cannobio market is a must-see event. Every Sunday morning, the lakeside promenade transforms into a lively market with dozens of stalls stretching along the water. Browse for local farm-fresh produce, artisanal cheeses and cured meats, breads and sweets, clothing, crafts, and more. The mix of sights, sounds, and delicious aromas – all set against the backdrop of the lake – creates an unforgettable atmosphere. It’s a wonderful opportunity to mingle with locals and pick up authentic souvenirs or snacks (don’t hesitate to sample some aged cheese or olive focaccia as you wander!). The market typically runs until early afternoon, and the busiest, most vibrant time is mid-morning when both tourists and locals fill the streets.
- Lakeside Promenade & Historic Center: Simply walking along Cannobio’s promenade is a joy in itself, especially in the late afternoon or at sunset. The lakeside walkway spans almost a kilometer (about 3,000 feet) along the waterfront, from the old port at one end up to the Lido beach at the other. As you stroll, you’ll pass lively café terraces, boats bobbing in the small marina, and elegant 18th–19th century facades painted in pastel shades. The views over the lake toward the mountains are spectacular, and in summer you might catch street musicians or artists performing along the promenade. Just inland, Cannobio’s narrow cobbled lanes lead you through the historic center (“Borgo”), where you can admire medieval and Baroque architecture like the Santuario della Santissima Pietà (an ornate church by the lake) and the Collegiata di San Vittore with its tall Romanesque bell tower. There’s a palpable sense of history as you explore the little piazzas and arcades – yet everything is alive with modern gelaterias, wine bars, and boutiques tucked among the old buildings.
- Beaches and Waterfront Relaxation: When the sun is shining, do as locals do and head to the Cannobio Lido, the town’s lakeside beach and park just north of the center. This expansive waterfront area has a broad pebble-and-grass beach that has earned Blue Flag certification for its clean waters. It’s the perfect spot to sunbathe, swim, or enjoy a picnic with a sweeping lake view. Active travelers can rent a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or even try windsurfing or kitesurfing – the Lido is known for having some of the best conditions on Lake Maggiore for wind sports. There’s also a beachside restaurant and bar at the Lido, so you can grab lunch or an ice cream without leaving the lakeshore. In addition to the Lido, the nearby villages of the upper lake have small beaches and swimming spots (for example, San Carlo or Maccagno across the water). A leisurely lakeside day is a must in warm weather.
- Hiking in the Cannobina Valley: Just behind Cannobio, the mountains rise into the untouched Cannobina Valley, a gateway to the wilderness of Val Grande National Park. A scenic road (and several trails) lead up this valley, which is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. You can take an easy walk or a more challenging hike through chestnut forests, past waterfalls and alpine streams. A popular short excursion is to the Orrido di Sant’Anna – the Sant’Anna Gorge – only a few kilometers from town. Here, the Cannobino River has carved a dramatic 25-meter deep gorge into the rock. A narrow old stone footbridge (Ponte Ballerino) crosses high above the turquoise rushing water, offering amazing views into the chasm. On one side of the gorge is a tiny 17th-century chapel, the Church of Sant’Anna, perched picturesquely on the cliffside. It’s an easy trip by car or an invigorating walk from Cannobio (roughly 45 minutes on a trail) to reach this natural wonder. Adventurous hikers can continue on marked paths into the valley – one trail leads to the medieval hamlet of Carmine Superiore on a hilltop, while another (Sentiero 2) loops back to Cannobio with panoramic viewpoints along the way. If you work up an appetite, you can even reward yourself at the rustic Grotto Sant’Anna restaurant near the gorge, which offers outdoor tables overlooking the waterfall (a famously romantic dining spot!). The Cannobina Valley truly showcases the unspoiled, green side of Cannobio’s surroundings.
- Day Trips to Switzerland: Cannobio sits very close to the Swiss border, making it easy to hop into Switzerland for a day. Just 5 km north is the border; beyond it lie the Swiss towns of Brissago, Ascona, and Locarno in the Italian-speaking Ticino region. Locarno is only about a 20-minute drive from Cannobio (or reachable by ferry in summer), and it offers plenty to see – from the charming Piazza Grande and medieval Castello Visconteo castle, to the Madonna del Sasso sanctuary perched above the city (accessible by a funicular railway). For a stunning vista, you can take the Locarno–Cardada cable car up to Cimetta mountain, which was a highlight for many visitors. Another great excursion is a boat trip from Cannobio to the Brissago Islands, two small islands on the Swiss side of the lake famous for their botanical gardens. The larger island, Isola Grande, is home to a beautiful botanical park with over 1,500 plant species – you can wander among palm trees, camellias, and exotic flowers, then have lunch on the villa’s terrace overlooking the gardens. The smaller island is a nature reserve ideal for a peaceful stroll. These islands make for a delightful half-day trip (passport recommended, since you’ll be crossing an international border on the lake!). Switzerland’s Ticino region complements your Cannobio stay with a dash of Swiss flair – think Swiss chocolates, lakeside promenades in Ascona, and perhaps an extension of your market shopping at the famous Wednesday market in Luino (just down the lake on the Italian side). With Cannobio as your base (or Hartmann’s base in Gignese), you have a wealth of international day trips at your fingertips.
- Other Nearby Attractions: Staying at Hartmann Feel At Home in Gignese also puts you within easy reach of central Lake Maggiore’s sights. On the drive between Cannobio and Gignese, you pass through the town of Stresa – a grand 19th-century resort town known for its elegant villas and hotels. From Stresa, you can catch ferries to the famous Borromean Islands (Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Madre), each boasting opulent palaces, gardens, and charming villages. This is a highly recommended day trip if you have time, as the islands are among Lake Maggiore’s top highlights. Also near Stresa is the Mottarone mountain (1,492 m), accessible by car or chairlift, which offers hiking trails in summer and a small ski area in winter – plus the Alpyland toboggan coaster for a bit of fun. And if you’re interested in sacred sites, the beautiful clifftop hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso is located on the opposite shore of the lake (reachable via ferry from Stresa). Whether you choose to explore north towards Switzerland or south towards Stresa, Cannobio and its surroundings provide a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.
Booking and Contact Information
Ready to plan your stay at Hartmann Feel At Home? Booking a room is straightforward. You can reserve directly through the official website (which is available in English, Italian, German, and French) or via major booking platforms like Booking.com or Airbnb. The owners encourage direct booking on their site since it features an online availability calendar, secure payment options, and often the best rates for your dates. A credit card usually suffices to guarantee your reservation, and you’ll receive a confirmation by email. Keep in mind that Hartmann Feel At Home is popular and fills up on weekends and in summer, so it’s wise to book early if you’re planning to visit during peak times – especially if you need one of the larger family suites.
Contact Details: For any questions or special requests, you can reach out to the Hartmann Feel At Home team directly. They are multilingual and happy to assist in English, Italian, German, or French. You can email info@homehartmann.com or call +39 349 3726750 to speak with the owner (Francesca or Danilo will often personally answer to help you). The B&B’s address is Salita Rognoni 10, 28836 Gignese (VB), Italy. If you plug that into your GPS, it should guide you right to the property’s gate. Parking is available on-site free of charge for guests.
Driving Directions from Cannobio: Hartmann Feel At Home is approximately 45–50 minutes by car from Cannobio (about 40 km/25 miles, depending on your route). The most scenic way is to follow the lakeshore south from Cannobio on the SS34 highway, which winds along Lake Maggiore passing through towns like Cannero and Verbania. You’ll enjoy wonderful lake views on your left for most of this drive. After Verbania, continue south toward Stresa. Just before reaching Stresa, you’ll see signs for the “Giardino Alpinia” or “Gignese/Mottarone” – take the uphill road (SP x) that leads east toward Gignese and Mottarone. Gignese is a small village in the hills above Stresa; Hartmann Feel At Home is located just off this road, a few minutes past the Alpino Golf Club. In total, it’s about a 50-minute drive from Cannobio to Hartmann, and the journey itself is quite enjoyable, combining lake vistas and mountain scenery. If coming from the A26 Autostrada (for instance, driving from Milan or Malpensa Airport), the closest highway exit is Carpugnino, from which Gignese is only 10 minutes away.
Public Transport Tips: While having a car is the most convenient way to reach Hartmann and explore the region, it is still possible to get around with public transportation. From Cannobio, you can take a bus (VCO Transport Linea 3) or ferry down to Verbania or Stresa, though schedules may be limited on weekends. From Stresa, there is a local bus line (S.A.F. bus) that runs up the hill to Gignese and back several times a day. The bus route is listed as Stresa–Vezzo–Levo–Gignese, and you can inquire at the Stresa tourism office or your hosts for the latest timetable. Alternatively, a short taxi ride from Stresa to Hartmann Feel At Home is a convenient option (the drive is about 15 minutes up the hill). If you’re arriving by train, the nearest station is Stresa on the Milan–Domodossola line; from Stresa’s station you can easily find a taxi or the local bus to Gignese.
For international travelers, note that Milan Malpensa (MXP) is the closest major airport – roughly 50 km from Gignese. By car, it’s about a 50-minute to 1-hour drive from Malpensa to Hartmann Feel At Home (most of it on the highway). If you prefer not to drive, you could take a shuttle or taxi from Malpensa to Stresa (some services run directly) and then head up to Gignese as mentioned. The owners at Hartmann are very helpful – don’t hesitate to ask if you need advice on transfers or if you’d like to arrange a pickup.
In summary, Hartmann Feel At Home offers a warm and welcoming “home away from home” near Lake Maggiore. By choosing this tranquil Gignese villa as your base, you can easily visit Cannobio and its surroundings – enjoying the lakeside charm, markets, hikes, and eateries by day – and then unwind in a peaceful setting each evening. Whether you’re watching the sunset over the garden with a glass of wine or swapping stories with the friendly hosts, you’ll quickly understand why guests arrive as visitors and leave as friends. Enjoy your stay in the beautiful Lake Maggiore region!
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