Introduction
Pallanza’s lakeside is lined with elegant historic facades and a scenic promenade that charms visitors with its old-world ambiance. Pallanza is a picturesque lakeside neighborhood of Verbania, situated on the western shore of Lake Maggiore. It’s often hailed as a hidden gem for its elegant waterfront promenade, where plane trees and flower-adorned balconies frame views of the Borromean Islands across the water. Strolling here feels like stepping into a postcard – grand 19th-century villas, quaint piazzas, and ornate porticoes speak to Pallanza’s rich historical architecture and heritage. This area is also nicknamed “the garden on the lake,” thanks to the spectacular Villa Taranto botanical gardens that span nearly 16 hectares and nurture over 20,000 plant species from around the world. In addition to Villa Taranto, Pallanza offers cultural attractions like the art collections at Museo del Paesaggio and beautiful centuries-old churches, all contributing to its laid-back yet cultured atmosphere. Nestled between the lake and green hills, yet only minutes from sights like Villa Taranto, Pallanza invites travelers to slow down and savor la dolce vita on Lake Maggiore’s shores.
Why Stay with Hartmann Feel At Home
Choosing Hartmann “Feel At Home” as your base near Pallanza comes with a host of benefits that set it apart from standard in-town hotels. First is the exceptional value for money – this family-run villa B&B consistently earns high marks for its comfort and amenities relative to its price. Guests often describe their stay as “a luxury experience with the nicest staff on amazing grounds,” praising the warm hospitality and personal touches provided by the hosts. The multilingual owners (fluent in Italian, English, German, French and more) truly treat every guest like family, ensuring you feel welcome and well cared for throughout your visit. One visitor wrote that “the hosts were wonderful – very warm and kind, always helpful… everything was just perfect,” highlighting the attentive service (even quick communication via WhatsApp) that international travelers especially appreciate. Such genuine, accommodating service makes a real difference – from thoughtful local tips to help with reservations, you’ll feel more like a personal guest than a customer.
Staying at Hartmann also means enjoying a level of peace and tranquility that can be hard to find in town centers. The B&B is perched in a quiet hillside village (Gignese) about 700 meters above sea level, surrounded by nature and set within a private park filled with century-old trees. After a day by the lakeside, you can unwind in perfect calm with fresh mountain air and cooler temperatures than down by the water. The villa’s grounds offer panoramic glimpses of green forests and distant peaks – there’s even a peek of Lake Maggiore from the highest room – creating an oasis of well-being where you can truly relax. Couples will relish the romantic seclusion of this serene setting, and families love the safe, spacious garden where kids can play freely. Free private parking is available on-site as well, so it’s easy to come and go for day trips around the lake without worrying about your car. Despite the tranquil setting, Pallanza’s sights are only about a 30-minute scenic drive away, and the popular town of Stresa is just a quick 10-minute drive down the hill – keeping you close to the action when you want it.
Lastly, Hartmann offers a unique blend of comfort and character that is hard to beat. You’ll be staying in a stately 1930s villa that was fully renovated in 2022, combining historic charm with modern conveniences. The house itself feels special – it even features an eye-catching little turret on the top floor – yet every room has perks like independent air conditioning and free Wi-Fi, so you never sacrifice comfort for atmosphere. The ambiance is intimate and homelike rather than impersonal, true to the B&B’s name. In the evenings you might curl up by the circular fireplace in the lounge or sip a glass of Piedmont wine on the terrace under the trees, soaking in the serene ambiance. Hartmann truly feels like a home-away-from-home. For travelers seeking a restful retreat with a personal touch – a place where you can return each night and feel at ease – Hartmann Feel At Home provides the ideal solution. It’s where comfort, calm, and authenticity meet, allowing you to experience Pallanza and Lake Maggiore not just as a tourist, but as an honored guest in a welcoming villa.
Why Choose Hartmann Feel at Home Near Pallanza?
Space, nature, and true comfort—just a short drive from the elegance of Lake Maggiore.
Pallanza, one of the most beautiful districts of Verbania, is a lakeside town full of charm. With its elegant promenade, botanical gardens at Villa Taranto, and peaceful views over the Borromean Gulf, it offers a refined yet relaxing atmosphere, perfect for families, couples, and anyone who loves the slower pace of lake life.
Just 25–30 minutes away, nestled in the green hills above Stresa, Hartmann Feel at Home offers something most hotels in Pallanza can’t: space to breathe, nature all around you, and the warmth of a place that truly feels like home.
Here’s why Hartmann Feel at Home is the perfect choice near Pallanza:
✔️ Spacious, bright apartments surrounded by nature
Unlike small hotel rooms, our apartments give you room to relax—featuring fully equipped kitchens, comfortable living areas, and private terraces or gardens for your morning coffee or sunset glass of wine.
✔️ A garden where children can play safely
Let your kids enjoy the outdoors in our fenced, green garden, while you unwind in the quiet hills with a book, a coffee, or simply the sound of nature around you.
✔️ Everything you need for a stress-free family stay
We provide thoughtful amenities to make travel easier:
🛏️ Cribs, highchairs, step stools, and nightlights
🧸 Toys, books, and games for little ones
🍼 Fridge, microwave, and bottle warmer
🛌 Flexible sleeping setups for families of all sizes
✔️ Wholesome breakfast on request
Start the day with a fresh and healthy breakfast made from local ingredients—bread, yogurt, fruit, jam, honey. Customizable for kids and dietary needs.
✔️ A perfect base to explore Pallanza and the surrounding area
In less than half an hour, you can reach Pallanza’s lakeside promenade, stroll through Villa Taranto’s world-famous botanical gardens, or take a ferry to the Borromean Islands. Then come home to a peaceful, private retreat in the hills.
✔️ Free private parking, fast Wi-Fi, and flexible check-in
No traffic stress, no hotel rush. We offer free on-site parking, stable internet, and arrival/departure times that work for you.
✔️ Warm, multilingual hosts who truly care
We speak English, Italian, German, and French, and we’re always happy to help with personalized recommendations—from family-friendly activities in Verbania to hidden spots for a quiet lakeside picnic.
Whether you’re visiting in spring, when the gardens burst into bloom, in summer, for boat rides and lakeside cafés, or in autumn, for crisp air and golden reflections on the water—Hartmann Feel at Home is your serene and comfortable retreat near Pallanza.
Because the most memorable stays happen in places where you’re not just a guest—
You’re truly at home.
Accommodation Overview
Hartmann Feel At Home features six uniquely decorated rooms and suites, plus a shared dorm-style room, offering accommodations for every type of traveler. All guest quarters are within the property’s beautifully renovated 1930s villa, so you get to enjoy the atmosphere of a historic lakeside mansion with modern comforts. Each room is spotlessly clean and newly furnished (thanks to the recent renovation), with hardwood floors, quality linens, and a private bathroom for convenience. Couples can choose from several cozy double rooms – for example, the “Manipura Giallo” or “Ajna Turchese” rooms offer bright spaces with French double beds (140×200 cm) and contemporary en-suite bathrooms. One especially romantic room sits up in the villa’s turret on the top floor, featuring balcony doors that reveal a panoramic view toward Lake Maggiore – perfect for a special getaway. Every room comes equipped with free Wi-Fi, a smart TV, independent A/C, hairdryer, and toiletries, so you have all the essentials for a comfortable stay.
For families or groups, Hartmann offers larger suites that provide extra space and flexibility. The “Swadhisthana Arancione” family suite, for instance, is a 50 m² unit with two adjoining rooms (separated by a sliding door) that can sleep up to 4 adults in two single beds plus a sofa bed. This suite even has a walk-in closet and enough floor space to lay out a yoga mat – great for stretching or letting kids play. Another option is the “Indigo Vishuddha” quad suite (31 m²) which offers two single beds and a sofa bed, ideal for a small family or a group of friends traveling together. There’s also a triple room (“Anahata Verde”) with two singles and a loft-style raised bed, which works perfectly for three friends or a couple with a child. All of these larger rooms come with their own spacious private bathrooms – many feature oversized rain showers, bidets, and modern fixtures that earn rave reviews from guests (one guest noted “the room and bathroom were spotless… big plus for the rain shower”). Hartmann is very family-friendly: high chairs and cribs can be provided for little ones on request (a crib is available for a small fee), and children of all ages are welcome.
What really sets Hartmann apart is that it even caters to solo travelers and backpackers on a budget – something rare for a villa B&B. The property has a shared dormitory-style room (“Muladhara Rosso”), a 20 m² space with 2 single beds and a bunk-style sofa bed. This room can be booked as a hostel-like shared room, giving solo travelers an affordable option to stay in the beautiful villa while meeting other guests. It’s a great choice for backpackers or anyone looking to save money, since you still get access to all the common facilities of the house. In total, Hartmann can host up to 19 guests across its rooms. This means an extended family or larger group could even reserve multiple rooms – or the entire house – for a private stay with everyone under one roof, turning Hartmann into your own holiday villa for a reunion or retreat.
Beyond the rooms themselves, Hartmann provides plenty of amenities and services to make you truly “feel at home.” Every morning, a generous continental breakfast is served in the sunny dining room (or out on the terrace in nice weather). Guests absolutely rave about the breakfast spread – you can expect local breads and pastries, fresh fruit, yogurt, cereals, and made-to-order Italian coffee, among other treats. The buffet caters to various diets too: there are always vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available, so everyone in your party will find something enjoyable. As one guest noted, breakfast was “plentiful with lots of choice, fresh and locally sourced where possible”, ensuring you start your day satisfied. For relaxation, the villa’s common areas are a delight. There’s a grand main hall with an inviting circular fireplace and a cozy library corner, plus an honesty bar where you can pour yourself an evening drink. Wellness-minded travelers will love the dedicated yoga and meditation room on-site – it’s outfitted with mats and tranquil décor, perfect for a morning yoga session or a quiet meditation overlooking the garden. Outdoors, the private park surrounding the house offers seating areas under the trees and even some surprises: you can soak in the outdoor hot tub under the stars, or gather around the stone fireplace/BBQ pit for a cozy family cookout. Kids have space to run around on the lawns, and in summer the hosts even set up a small children’s pool so little ones can splash around safely. With free Wi-Fi throughout the property and free private parking on-site, all the practical details are covered too. In short, whether you’re a couple seeking comfort, a family needing room to spread out, or a solo adventurer on a budget, Hartmann Feel At Home provides a perfect home base near Pallanza – combining the charm of a villa stay with the conveniences of a well-equipped guesthouse.
Where to Eat in Pallanza
One of the joys of visiting Pallanza is sampling the local Italian cuisine – from rustic trattorias to elegant cafes by the lake. Here are a few recommended eateries in Pallanza (and its immediate surroundings) that cater to different tastes and budgets, and are very welcoming for couples, families, and travelers of all kinds:
- Osteria degli Specchi (Pallanza) – A charming Italian osteria in the heart of Pallanza, known for its inviting garden patio and delicious homemade cuisine. Osteria degli Specchi prides itself on fresh ingredients and hearty Piedmontese dishes; one standout is their truffle carbonara, featuring perfectly cooked pasta tossed with a generous shaving of local truffle, cheese, and pepper. The atmosphere is casual yet cozy – great for either a laid-back lunch or a romantic dinner – and the friendly staff make you feel right at home. It’s an ideal spot to savor regional specialties (like lake fish or mushroom risotto) alongside Italian classics. This osteria frequently earns rave reviews as a favorite dining spot in Pallanza thanks to its delightful food and relaxed setting. If you want an authentic lakeside dining experience without breaking the bank, Specchi is a must-visit.
- Hostaria Dam a Traa (Suna) – Located in the picturesque Suna district just west of Pallanza, “Dam a Traa” is a beloved waterfront trattoria that’s especially popular with families and locals. Here you can dine literally steps from the lake, enjoying breathtaking views of the water and mountains during your meal. The vibe is unpretentious and friendly, with large portion sizes that satisfy hearty appetites. The menu features generous servings of local Italian comfort food – their seafood dishes are fresh and flavorful, and they’re famous for a giant breaded cotoletta (cutlet) that will challenge any hungry diner! Prices are reasonable (around €20–25 for a substantial meal), and there are vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available, making it easy to bring the whole family. Kids are warmly welcomed – highchairs are available and there’s a kids’ menu – so parents can relax and enjoy a meal as well. After dinner, you can grab a gelato and take a stroll along Suna’s little lungolago. With its combination of good food, lake views, and a casual family-friendly atmosphere, Hostaria Dam a Traa is a great choice for a fun evening by the water.
- Arte & Pizza (Pallanza) – For a quick, budget-friendly bite, head to this simple pizzeria tucked away on Piazza Garibaldi in Pallanza. Arte & Pizza isn’t fancy – it’s a small, no-frills spot – but it’s beloved for its authentic wood-fired pizzas and friendly service. You’ll find all the classic pizzas on the menu, from a perfect Margherita to hearty toppings like prosciutto or fresh veggies, all made with a light, chewy crust in true Neapolitan style. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a good pick for families with children (what kid doesn’t love pizza?) or travelers looking for a low-cost meal. On a nice day, you might be able to enjoy your pizza at one of the few outdoor tables on the piazza, watching local life go by. Prices are very affordable, and take-away is available if you’d rather sit by the lake. It’s the perfect option when you want something quick, tasty, and easy on the wallet. Note: This pizzeria is popular with locals, so it can get busy – going early or ordering ahead can be helpful.
- Caffè delle Rose Bistrot (Pallanza) – For a more refined dining or café experience, try this historic bistro situated just off Pallanza’s lakefront. Caffè delle Rose is a beautifully restored Art Nouveau (Liberty-style) café that doubles as an intimate restaurant – it even has a few elegant B&B rooms upstairs called “Les Chambres.” The setting is perfect for a romantic dinner, an elegant lunch, or simply an afternoon aperitivo with a view. The atmosphere manages to be upscale and ambient yet still friendly, with impeccable service. Chef Max Celeste (who has been recognized by the Michelin guide) creates a seasonal menu that blends tradition with innovation. You might find creative dishes like octopus paired with local herbs, or handmade ravioli with a modern twist – all beautifully presented. The bistro emphasizes fresh, local ingredients and has an excellent wine selection to pair with each course. Even if you don’t come for a full meal, it’s worth stopping by for a cappuccino and pastry in the morning or a classic Aperol Spritz on their outdoor terrace in the early evening – you’ll be able to soak up the early 1900s charm and lovely lake views. Keep in mind, prices here are on the higher side (it’s listed in the Michelin guide, and a dinner might be ~€50 per person), but for a special occasion or to sample modern Italian cuisine in Pallanza, Caffè delle Rose Bistrot is well worth it. Due to its popularity, reservations are recommended, especially in summer and on weekends.
Of course, these are just a few options – Pallanza and the surrounding Verbania districts have plenty of other eateries, from gelato shops to cozy wine bars. Part of the fun is exploring the town’s streets and discovering your own favorite café or trattoria with a view. But wherever you choose to dine, you’ll get to enjoy the rich flavors of northern Italy’s lake district – buon appetito!
What to Do Around Pallanza
Pallanza and its surroundings offer a wealth of activities for all ages, whether you’re interested in nature, culture, or just relaxing by the lake. Here are some of the top things to see and do during your stay:
- Walk the Lakefront Promenade: A leisurely stroll along Pallanza’s lungolago (lakefront promenade) is a must-do. Considered one of the most elegant waterfronts on Lake Maggiore, Pallanza’s promenade is lined with shady plane trees, historic villas and hotels, and flower gardens, all against the backdrop of the lake and mountains. Comfortable benches invite you to sit and take in the views: on one side, the calm waters of the Borromean Bay with the islands in view; on the other, picturesque facades and café terraces. In the early evening, join the locals for a classic passeggiata (evening stroll) as the sun sets – the sky turns pink over the water and lights twinkle on the opposite shore. It’s a magical, romantic atmosphere that’s perfect for couples. Families will also enjoy the walk – there are playgrounds and often summertime gelato stands or live music along the way, making the promenade a lively yet relaxing place to wander.
- Visit Villa Taranto Gardens: Just a short walk or drive from Pallanza’s center lies the famed Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens, one of Europe’s most spectacular garden estates. Spread over 16 hectares on a promontory, these gardens are a paradise of rare plants and flowers (over 20,000 species from all around the world) arranged in beautiful landscapes. Created in the 1930s by a Scottish captain, Villa Taranto blends English-style garden design with Italian elegance – you’ll find winding paths, fountains and ponds, terraced flowerbeds overlooking the lake, and even greenhouses with exotic species. Depending on the season, you might encounter tulip displays in spring, lotus blossoms in summer, or vivid dahlias in early autumn. Don’t miss the iconic Victoria Amazonica water lilies in the greenhouse or the reflection pool for a great photo op. The gardens are thoughtfully designed with plenty of benches and shade, and they’re mostly accessible (stroller- and wheelchair-friendly paths). Plan to spend a leisurely morning or afternoon here, soaking in the colors and scents – nature lovers and photographers will be in heaven. Villa Taranto is internationally renowned (often ranked among the top botanical gardens in Italy), so this is absolutely a must-visit for anyone who appreciates gardening, botany, or simply a peaceful walk in beautiful surroundings.
- Explore Historic Churches: Pallanza’s heritage shines through its historic churches and chapels, which offer insight into local art and architecture. In the town center near the lakefront, step into the Church of San Leonardo – dating back to the 16th century, it has a modest exterior but a richly decorated Baroque interior that surprises visitors. Inside you’ll find beautifully preserved frescoes and ornate stucco work adorning the ceilings and chapels, as well as a distinctive tall, slender bell tower that is a landmark of Pallanza’s skyline. A short walk away (on Viale Azari) is the Church of Madonna di Campagna, a Romanesque-style church from the same era, known for its elegant octagonal shape and Renaissance frescoes – it sits in a peaceful park setting, slightly away from the tourist bustle. If you’re up for a brief uphill stroll, the Oratorio di San Remigio is an 11th-century chapel perched on Castagnola Hill above Pallanza. It’s simple but very old, and from its terrace you can enjoy panoramic views over the town and lake, making the visit worthwhile for the vista alone. These churches are typically free to enter (donations welcome) and offer a quiet, contemplative break from sightseeing – a nice way to connect with the local history and art.
- Enjoy a Lakeside Aperitivo: Do as the Italians do and indulge in an aperitivo by the lake in the late afternoon or early evening. Pallanza has several inviting bars and cafés along the waterfront (and in the little piazzas just inland) where you can sit outside and sip a Spritz, a glass of local wine, or a non-alcoholic cocktail while nibbling on complimentary snacks. It’s a delightful ritual to preface dinner: you get to relax with friends or your partner, admire the changing colors of the sky, and toast to your day’s adventures. One particularly scenic spot is near Pallanza’s old ferry dock, where outdoor tables from cafes like Bar Lago or Gelateria Pontile let you watch boats glide by as the sun goes down. Often there’s mellow music or simply the sound of gently lapping water. Tip: An Aperol Spritz or a Hugo (elderflower spritz) are popular local choices; pair it with some olives, cheese, or chips that are usually served, and you’ve got yourself the perfect lakeside happy hour. This is a relaxing, romantic experience for couples, and even families can enjoy it – kids can have a gelato or juice while parents unwind. An aperitivo in Pallanza is not just a drink, it’s a cultural experience of la dolce vita!
- Relax on Small Beaches: When the weather is warm, you might want to take a dip in Lake Maggiore – and while Pallanza doesn’t have long stretches of beach, it does offer a couple of lovely spots to swim or sunbathe. In Pallanza itself, near the town center, you’ll find L’Arena, a small but pleasant public beach area that’s the easiest to access for a quick swim. Rather than sand, it features a grassy lawn shaded by mature trees right by the water, creating a relaxed picnic-like atmosphere. Locals and visitors spread out towels on the grass or take a refreshing dip from the little pebble shoreline; the views across the lake to the mountains are fantastic from here. Just a bit further west (a 15-minute lakeside walk or a 5-minute drive) is the Lido di Suna, Verbania’s most popular beach spot in the Suna quarter. Suna’s “beach” offers a mix of pebble shoreline and large grassy areas, plus an actual lakefront swimming pool and a lounge bar/café called Suna Beach. You can rent sun loungers and umbrellas here for a small fee, making it comfortable to spend an afternoon in the sun. Families love Suna because the water entry is gentle and there are often other kids playing; the atmosphere is lively and fun. Both L’Arena and Suna Beach have free sections (spiaggia libera) as well as adjacent paid facilities (the pool at Suna, for example). If you’re willing to venture a bit further, there are additional beaches north and south of Pallanza – but for most visitors, these local spots are perfect for a refreshing swim or a lakeside lounge close to town. Don’t forget your swimsuit and a towel during summer months!
- Take a Boat to the Borromean Islands: No trip to Lake Maggiore is complete without exploring the Borromean Islands, the trio of enchanting islands that float in the bay between Pallanza and Stresa. From Pallanza’s ferry terminal (or the nearby one in Verbania-Intra), you can catch a ferry or taxi-boat that will whisk you to the islands – services run frequently in spring and summer. Isola Bella is the star attraction: it boasts a 17th-century Baroque palace filled with lavish salons and artwork, as well as extravagant Italianate terraced gardens where white peacocks strut among statues and fragrant flowers. Visiting the palace and strolling Isola Bella’s manicured gardens feels like stepping into a fairytale. Isola Madre, the largest island, is a peaceful botanical garden paradise – its extensive English-style gardens are famous for rare plants, blooming azaleas and camellias, and even free-roaming exotic birds like parrots and pheasants. Isola Madre also has a charming villa open to visitors, with antique furnishings and a quirky puppet theatre collection. The third islet, Isola dei Pescatori (Fishermen’s Island), offers a completely different vibe – it’s a quaint village with narrow lanes, old fishermen’s houses, and several family-run trattorias serving fresh lake fish. Many people love to stop here for lunch on the shore (the local specialty is perch risotto) or to shop for souvenirs. A popular day trip is to “island-hop” all three: you might spend the morning on Isola Madre, have lunch on Pescatori, then tour Isola Bella in the afternoon when the light in the gardens is beautiful. Ferries will bring you back to Pallanza or on to Stresa easily by the end of the day. Visiting the Borromean Islands is a highlight of Lake Maggiore – as you approach by boat, you’ll understand why writers and artists have raved about their beauty for centuries. (Tip: Try to go early or on a weekday to avoid the biggest crowds, and note that the palaces/gardens are typically open from late March to October.)
- Day Trip to Verbania Intra: While staying in Pallanza, it’s worth visiting Verbania-Intra, the neighboring district that forms the other half of Verbania city. Intra (just 3 km up the road, or a short ferry/bus ride away) offers a livelier, more commercial atmosphere to complement Pallanza’s relaxed charm. The town center in Intra is bustling with local life – you’ll find a variety of shops and boutiques (great if you need anything or want to do some shopping), as well as the largest weekly open-air market, which takes place on Saturdays and draws people from all over the area. Wander through Intra’s pedestrian streets and you’ll discover plenty of cafes, patisseries, and gelato shops (a stop at the famed Gelateria d’Azzo or Gelateria d’Altri Tempi for artisan gelato is highly recommended!). Intra also has its own lakefront promenade and harbor, where you can watch the ferries come and go – this is the main ferry terminal on the west side, connecting to Laveno on the opposite shore. If you’re interested in local culture, check out the Museo del Paesaggio (Landscape Museum) in Pallanza before you go – it’s actually located between Pallanza and Intra, and showcases art and artifacts of the Lake Maggiore region. Visiting Intra for a half-day or evening is easy and gives you a broader perspective on Verbania. You might, for example, spend a morning in Pallanza’s gardens and then head to Intra for lunch and a bit of shopping, or go in the evening to dine at a pizzeria and take an after-dinner stroll. The two districts are connected by frequent local buses (and also a lovely lakeside bike path if you enjoy cycling). Together, Pallanza and Intra make Verbania a well-rounded destination, each with its own personality – Pallanza is all about scenic tranquility, while Intra brings a touch of bustling Italian small-town life. Experiencing both will enrich your Lake Maggiore visit.
From gardens to islands, and from leisurely walks to cultural discoveries, Pallanza offers plenty to fill your days with memorable experiences. And when you stay at Hartmann Feel At Home, you’ll have the perfect relaxing haven to return to each evening after your adventures around the lake.
Booking and Contact Information
Ready to experience Hartmann Feel At Home for yourself? Booking a stay is straightforward. You can reserve directly on Hartmann’s official website (they offer secure online booking and often the best rates for guests), or contact the B&B via phone or email to inquire about availability. The hosts speak English and Italian, so international visitors can easily communicate any special requests or questions. Here are the direct contact details for convenience: Phone: +39 349 3726750, Email: info@homehartmann.com. Given Hartmann’s popularity (especially in peak seasons like summer), it’s wise to book in advance if you can. That said, even last-minute travelers should reach out – the owners are very responsive and will do their best to accommodate you if there’s space. Hartmann is also listed on major booking platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb, where it consistently earns superb reviews (currently a 9.4 “Wonderful” rating on Booking.com with over 100 reviews). However, booking direct with the B&B can sometimes give you more room choices or flexibility (for example, arranging extra beds or pet stays – yes, pets are allowed on request), and it helps support the local business.
Getting to Hartmann Feel At Home from Pallanza: The B&B’s address is Salita Rognoni 10, 28836 Gignese (VB). If you have a car, the drive from Pallanza is about 30 minutes and quite scenic. You’ll follow the lakeside road south along the Borromean Gulf, passing through Feriolo and Baveno, toward Stresa. When you reach Stresa, look for signs for Gignese/Mottarone – you’ll take the winding uphill road (Provincial Road SP41) about 8 km into the hills to reach Gignese. Hartmann Feel At Home is located in a quiet residential area of Gignese; you’ll see a gated entrance and the beautiful villa inside a park. Free guest parking is available on-site behind the gate. The drive itself is enjoyable, offering lovely views of the lake as you climb. If you’re arriving via the highway (Autostrada A26), the nearest exit is Carpugnino/Stresa – from that exit it’s only about a 10-minute drive up to Gignese.
If you’re traveling without a car, it is also possible to reach Hartmann by public transport. From Verbania-Pallanza or Intra, you can take a ferry or bus to Stresa (there are regular bus lines connecting Verbania with Stresa and Arona). Once you’re in Stresa, a local SAF bus (Route 1S, the Stresa–Gignese line) runs a few times a day up to Gignese – the ride is only ~25–30 minutes, and you can get off in Gignese village, about 300 m from the B&B’s entrance. Alternatively, taxis are readily available in Stresa; a taxi ride up to Gignese takes around 10 minutes. If you’re coming from Milan or Malpensa Airport without a car, an easy option is the Alibus shuttle which runs directly from Malpensa to Verbania Pallanza and Stresa (seasonally), or you can take a train from Milan to Stresa (Stresa is on the Milan–Domodossola railway line, about 1 hour from Milan). From Stresa’s station, you’d continue by bus or taxi as mentioned. The hosts at Hartmann are happy to provide up-to-date public transport info or even arrange a private transfer if needed – just ask them in advance.
Local transportation tips: Once you’re at Hartmann, you’ll likely appreciate having a car to explore the wider Lake Maggiore region freely, but it’s not absolutely required. Verbania (Pallanza and Intra) can be reached by the bus/ferry combo described, and from Verbania you can easily use the lake ferries to visit other towns (like Laveno on the opposite shore, or nearby Baveno, or the Borromean Islands). There are also local buses that connect Verbania’s different neighborhoods – Pallanza, Intra, Suna – and other villages nearby, so you can get around locally on public transport. If you enjoy cycling, consider renting e-bikes – the area around Verbania has some nice bike paths (for example, a scenic trail along the lake to Fondotoce) and having an e-bike makes tackling the hills much easier. Hartmann provides bicycle parking and is close to some cycling routes, so biking can be a fun way to explore on fair-weather days. Walking is another pleasant way to get around Pallanza’s center – the town is compact and pedestrian-friendly along the waterfront. For farther excursions, the B&B can help arrange guided tours or give driving directions – they are well-situated not only for Lake Maggiore but also between Lake Orta (a gorgeous smaller lake 30 minutes away) and the mountain valleys to the north. You could even do a day trip into Switzerland (the city of Locarno is reachable in about an hour) thanks to the convenient location. The hosts are full of local knowledge, so don’t hesitate to ask them for recommendations or current events happening during your stay.
In summary, Hartmann Feel At Home offers not only a wonderful place to stay near Pallanza, but also the friendly guidance and insider tips to explore the Lake Maggiore region with ease. Whether you drive or use local transport, you’ll find that a little extra distance from Pallanza is a small trade-off for the tranquility, value, and hospitality you gain by staying in Gignese. Each evening, after exploring lakeside promenades, gardens, islands, and charming towns, you’ll love coming “home” to Hartmann – relaxing in the garden or by the fireplace, perhaps chatting with the hosts about your day. By choosing Hartmann as your base, you can truly enjoy Pallanza and its beautiful surroundings to the fullest, with a comfortable retreat awaiting you at day’s end. Safe travels and benvenuti – welcome to Lago Maggiore!
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