Introduction to the area (Arona and Lake Maggiore)
Arona is one of the liveliest and most charming towns on Lake Maggiore, located at the southern end of the Piedmont shore. It offers a perfect balance of relaxation, culture and fun, ideal for both couples and families. Its elegant pedestrian lakeside is lined with outdoor cafés, shops and wisteria pergolas, creating a pleasant atmosphere in every season. Arona also boasts a historic centre rich in history: it was the first fief of the powerful Borromeo family on Lake Maggiore and preserves evidence of the past, such as the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Nascente with its distinctive bell tower and the remains of the ancient Borromean fortress where St. Charles Borromeo was born in 1538. Right on the hill above the town stands its most famous symbol, the colossal Statue of St. Charles Borromeo (known as “Sancarlone”), about 35 meters high and visible from afar throughout the southern basin of Lake Maggiore. Surrounding Arona are picturesque views: from the lakeshore you can admire the green hills and, in front, the profile of the fortress of Angera on the Lombard shore. In addition, just a few kilometres away is the Mercurago Lagoni Nature Park, a reserve of 473 hectares of woods and glacial ponds that preserves important prehistoric pile-dwelling sites recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011. This combination of urban vitality, natural beauty and historical heritage makes Arona a “gem” of Lake Maggiore waiting to be discovered.
Why choose Hartmann Feel At Home as a base
Arona and its surroundings offer so much to see, but to enjoy the area at its best it is important to choose a comfortable and strategic base. Hartmann “Feel At Home” B&B is the ideal starting point to explore Arona, the statue of Sancarlone and the other attractions of Lake Maggiore. It is an elegant period villa located in Gignese, on the hills between Stresa and Mottarone, less than half an hour by car from Arona. The hillside position guarantees tranquility, fresh air and splendid views of the lake, while remaining convenient for reaching the main places of interest in a short time. Hartmann offers a truly special welcome: it is not the classic impersonal hotel with crowded receptions, but a real home away from home, cared for by the owners in every detail to make every guest feel like family. The rooms are spacious, bright and recently renovated, and the atmosphere is intimate and relaxing – perfect for resting after a day of visits and walks. Numerous guests praise the warm and multilingual hospitality of the managers, always ready to give personalized advice for excursions. The villa, built in the 1930s and renovated in 2022, combines historic charm (original stone walls, a central circular fireplace) with modern comforts such as free Wi-Fi and air conditioning in every room. In the morning you will be awaited by a generous breakfast with natural products served without haste, while in the evening you can relax in the living room with fireplace or on panoramic terraces sipping a good local wine. For those travelling by car there is a convenient free private parking, and if you prefer public transport the owners are happy to assist with timetables and transfers (they can even arrange pick-up from Stresa or Verbania on request). Hartmann Feel At Home represents in short a warm and strategic refuge: here you can recharge your batteries in an oasis of peace, knowing that all the beauties of Lake Maggiore are within easy reach. After exploring Arona and its surroundings, it will be a pleasure to “come back home” to Hartmann, where calm, comfort and many authentic attentions to the guest await you.
Overview of accommodations at Hartmann Feel At Home
Hartmann Feel At Home offers six exclusive accommodation solutions (each named after a yoga chakra), designed to meet the needs of couples, families and even single travellers. Each room is tastefully decorated with a personalized touch and equipped with all modern comforts: private bathroom (except for a small shared dormitory), free Wi-Fi, TV, air conditioning, fresh linen, hairdryer and courtesy set. The rooms all have a unique character – some have a small panoramic balcony, some a loft bed, some direct access to the garden – but they share the same high standard of cleanliness and attention to detail, to ensure a pleasant and relaxing stay for all guests. Below is an overview of the available rooms, with their capacities and main features:
| Name | Capacity | Main features |
|---|---|---|
| Swadhisthana | 2 people | Reserved suite with a private jacuzzi and direct access to the garden – ideal for a romantic stay in the silence of nature. |
| Sahasrara | 2 people | Room in the panoramic turret, with a small balcony and breathtaking view of Lake Maggiore – a true nest suspended between sky and lake for couples seeking inspiration. |
| Ajna | 4 people | Spacious family suite consisting of two separate areas (bedroom + sitting room with sofa bed) for space and privacy. Garden access, suitable for families or couples who want comfort and freedom. |
| Anahata | 3 people | Bright and creative room with a loft bed and soft furnishings: a playful and informal atmosphere that makes it perfect for a couple with a child or for friends seeking a relaxed stay without formality. |
| Manipura | 2 people | Double room on the ground floor, decorated in a simple yet elegant style. Equipped with a “French bed” (one and a half width) and windows onto the garden; a practical and refined solution at the same time. |
| Vishuddha | 1–2 people | The smallest and most intimate room, with an essential and welcoming atmosphere. Ideal for those travelling alone or for a couple looking for silence and peace in a cosy and comfortable space. |
(Note: Besides these rooms, the property occasionally offers a small shared dormitory with 3 beds for budget-conscious backpackers, but the heart of the offering remains in the private rooms described above.)
As you can see, every guest will find the accommodation that best suits their needs: whether you are a couple on a romantic escape, a family on vacation or a solo traveller, Hartmann Feel At Home has the right room for you – all united by the same warm atmosphere and high standards of comfort and cleanliness guaranteed by the owners.
Local attractions (Arona and surroundings)
The main must-see in Arona is undoubtedly the Colossus of Saint Charles Borromeo, affectionately called “il Sancarlone” by locals. This gigantic copper statue dedicated to Saint Charles Borromeo stands on the San Carlo hill, about 310 m above sea level, and is one of the largest monumental statues in the world that can be visited from the inside. Erected between 1624 and 1698 from a design by Giovanni Battista Crespi (called “Il Cerano”) at the request of St. Charles’s cousin, Cardinal Federico Borromeo, the Sancarlone reaches a total height of 35 meters (23.5 m the figure + 11.5 m the pedestal). For almost two centuries it remained the tallest statue in the world that one could climb inside. Visiting the Sancarlone is an experience not to be missed: after admiring its benevolent grandeur from the square (the saint’s right hand is raised in blessing), you can access the base and climb an 85-step spiral staircase leading up to the panoramic balcony at the feet of the statue. The most daring can continue inside the body of the statue, clambering through narrow passages to literally reach the saint’s head – from the windows in the eyes and ears you enjoy a unique view over Lake Maggiore! From the external panoramic terrace, your gaze sweeps over Arona, the southern basin of the lake and the surrounding hills: a breathtaking panorama that fully repays the climb. Next to the colossus is the ancient Church of San Carlo, part of a Sacred Mount project never completed: inside are relics of the Saint and sacred works, creating a small sanctuary of great historical charm. A curiosity: it is said that this colossal statue inspired none other than the Statue of Liberty in New York – the sculptor Bartholdi studied the Sancarlone during a trip to Italy and was impressed by the technique of copper pieces “hammered” on a frame. Practical tips: the Sancarlone complex is open from March to November with varying hours; it’s best to check the official website for visiting days and times and any guided tours.
Descending from the San Carlo hill, you can enjoy the rest of Arona’s attractions at lake level. A pleasant walk along the lakeside is a must: the Lungolago Marconi offers a beautiful view over the water and the fortress of Angera opposite, and is adorned with flowerbeds, trees and shaded stretches of wisteria. Along the walk you will find benches to relax and enjoy artisanal ice cream and numerous bars and kiosks for a lakeside aperitif. From the lakeside your gaze is also captured by the slender Romanesque-Gothic bell tower of Santa Maria Nascente rising among the buildings of the historic centre. Entering Arona’s historic centre, you will discover a maze of cobbled pedestrian streets (such as Corso Cavour and Via C. Alberini) lined with boutiques, wine bars, gelaterias and typical shops: it’s the perfect place for shopping and souvenirs. The town is lively all year round with markets and events: notable is the large weekly market every Tuesday and, at certain times, antiques markets and food and wine festivals in the main squares. Piazza del Popolo, overlooking the port, is the heart of Arona: surrounded by pastel-coloured historic buildings and arcades, it hosts historic cafés and often outdoor events. On this square overlooks the lovely Church of Santa Maria di Loreto with its baroque façade. Continuing the walk you reach the foot of the Borromean Fortress of Arona, located on a green promontory dominating the town. The fortress, dating back to the Middle Ages, was an important outpost of the Borromeo (and the birthplace of St. Charles) and was unfortunately partially demolished in 1800 by order of Napoleon. Today the remains of the fortress have been incorporated into a large public panoramic park, redeveloped and open all year with free entry. Climbing to the fortress (10-15 minutes on foot from the centre, along an uphill pedestrian path) is an experience not to be missed: in addition to walking among ancient walls and gardens, you will find yourself on wide green lawns ideal for picnics and relaxation, with panoramic paths offering spectacular views over Lake Maggiore. From the fortress’s main terrace your view encompasses the entire Arona bay: facing you is the fortress of Angera on the other shore, further north you see Stresa and the Borromean Islands, and on clear days your gaze reaches the alpine peaks on the horizon. The fortress of Arona often hosts cultural events, art exhibitions and summer outdoor concerts, adding a touch of historical vibrancy to the place. Children will also enjoy the visit: the park has a playground and plenty of space for running in the open air.
Another characteristic activity in Arona is a boat trip on the lake. Arona is an important port of the Lake Maggiore Navigation service: from its harbour square depart regular line boats connecting the town to the main lake locations. Daily runs resume in spring (from April), including the direct line Arona–Locarno that goes up the whole lake to Switzerland – a real mini cruise of about 4 hours, during which you can also have lunch on board. In summer, the schedules are increased and numerous boat trips are organized to the splendid Borromean Islands (Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori, Isola Madre) and to Stresa, allowing you to visit these places without using the car. For a short crossing, instead, you can take advantage of the Arona–Angera ferry: about every hour, a small ferry connects the two shores in only 5 minutes of navigation. Upon arrival in Angera, you can visit the magnificent Fortress of Angera (another Borromeo property, intact and well-preserved, with the curious Museum of Dolls and Toys inside) or stroll along the lakeside of the quiet village of Angera. A romantic tip: try a boat trip at sunset, when the lake waters turn gold and pink – for example, some evening summer runs connect Arona, Angera and the picturesque village of Ranco for dinners and aperitifs under the moonlight. Finally, for nature and hiking enthusiasts, Arona offers several paths in the surrounding hills: in addition to the aforementioned pedestrian path to the fortress and the Sacred Mount of San Carlo, the hilly area of Alto Vergante behind Arona is rich in woods and mule tracks. In particular, the Mercurago Lagoni Park (3 km from the centre) is a paradise for hikers, runners and cyclists: various marked (easy and flat) trails allow you to explore this ecosystem of peat bogs, moors and woods populated by wildlife (it’s not unusual to spot deer and herons during walks). The Lagoni area is famous for Bronze Age archaeological discoveries: along the path you encounter panels telling of the pile-dwelling villages found on the shores of the inner lakes and of a Roman necropolis, evidence of a very ancient human presence. The park, part of the UNESCO heritage, is accessible all year round for free: a perfect destination to immerse yourself in nature away from the chaos, perhaps organizing a picnic in the shade of pines or a rejuvenating bike ride on the easy dirt roads between meadows and groves.
Where to eat in Arona and surroundings
After so much exploring, you deserve a good meal! Arona offers a rich choice of restaurants and venues for all tastes – from traditional Piedmontese and lake cuisine, to informal pizzerias, to creative gourmet proposals. Here are some suggestions on where to eat in Arona and its surroundings:
- Osteria d’Asti – A historic inn in the centre (Via Milano 8) specializing in authentic Piedmontese cuisine. The atmosphere is rustic and welcoming, and the menu highlights local flavours: zero-kilometre cured meat and cheese platters, homemade fresh pasta, Nebbiolo-braised meats, mushrooms in season and other traditional recipes. All accompanied by excellent wines from the Novara and Monferrato hills. Mid-range prices and great satisfaction for those seeking genuine cuisine of days gone by.
- Anticogallo – In the heart of the historic centre (Via Bottelli 13) you’ll find this Piedmontese tavern founded back in 1861, full of old-world charm. It offers classic local dishes: agnolotti with ragù, creamy risottos, rustic polenta with wine-braised meat, breaded lake perch with butter and sage – all cooked according to traditional recipes and with quality ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and convivial, like taking a step back in time. Medium price range (€€); reservations recommended on weekends due to its reputation.
- Ventitré – A modern and informal option: this designer bistro in the centre (Via Bottelli 10, off Corso Cavour) creatively revisits traditional dishes. The menu changes often following the seasons, offering, for example, a fillet of lake trout on a bed of Jerusalem artichoke cream, or homemade gnocchi with rabbit ragù and rosemary – local recipes presented in a refined way. The atmosphere is young, with soft music and minimal décor, ideal for a light lunch or a relaxed dinner. Prices €€.
- Piroscafo Lombardia 1908 – For a truly unique experience, try this floating restaurant housed on an old steamship moored on Arona’s lakeside! The location is suggestive and elegant: you’ll dine aboard a historic 1908 boat, restored and transformed into a restaurant, with a panoramic view over the water. The cuisine focuses on the freshest lake fish (procured by a local fish farm) and zero-kilometre products: try the risotto with fillets of perch, or the grilled whitefish with seasonal vegetables. The wine list is also excellent. A romantic atmosphere perfect for couples; mid-high prices (€€€) justified by the exclusive experience.
- Ca’ De Mat – A genuine family-run trattoria, hidden in a small street near the lakefront (Via Cesare Battisti 3). Here you come for substance rather than appearance: the place is simple but welcoming and every evening offers a fixed traditional menu from Piedmont, served in generous portions at an honest fixed price. Typically, the menu includes mixed starters (cured meats, Russian salad, vitello tonnato), a first course of homemade pasta (e.g. tagliatelle with ragù or risotto with mushrooms), a slow-cooked meat main with a side, and homemade dessert. All accompanied by the house wine. The name means “House of the crazy”, and the atmosphere is cheerful and informal, like dining with a Piedmontese grandmother! Great value for money.
- La Ruga del Corso – In an old building on Corso Cavour, this trattoria-pizzeria combines lake specialities and Mediterranean dishes. The setting has a rustic charm (you dine in what were once the cells of a 15th-century monastery, now restored). The menu features risotto with lake perch, spaghetti with lake ragù and platters of Ossola cheeses, as well as excellent pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven. Average prices and friendly staff.
- Other options and surroundings: Arona really has something for every palate. If you’re looking for a good pizzeria in an informal setting, the most famous is Aldo Pizzeria in Piazza del Popolo: a local institution with over 50 years of history, renowned for its fragrant pizzas and for “bringing the sea to the lake” – in fact, in addition to pizza, it also offers mussels in sauce, mixed fried fish and other seafood dishes that are highly appreciated. Aldo’s popularity is such that it has earned the Travellers’ Choice on TripAdvisor (top 10% of restaurants) in recent years. For a quick lunch or a tasty aperitif, try Gelateria-Vineria Sancarlino in Piazza San Carlo, where in addition to artisanal ice cream you’ll find platters and gourmet sandwiches to accompany a glass of local wine. On the lakeside, in summer, there is no shortage of kiosks and outdoor bars where you can enjoy an apericena with a sunset view: one of the most loved is the Bar Pederiva, a historic venue with a panoramic terrace on the tip of the lakeside. Finally, for a truly starred experience (literally), we point out for those willing to go a little outside Arona the restaurant Piccolo Lago in Verbania (about 40 minutes by car to the north): 2 Michelin stars, overlooking the small Lake Mergozzo, where chef Marco Sacco proposes innovative cuisine using lake fish and local products (a special option for those seeking fine dining after exploring Arona).
Travel information and practical tips
How to get to Arona: the town is well connected and easy to reach both by car and by public transport. By car, Arona is about 65 km from Milan and can be reached in about an hour: from the A8 Milano–Varese motorway take the A26 towards Gravellona Toce and exit at the “Arona” toll gate. Coming from Turin, you can take the A4 to Novara Est and then follow signs for Lago Maggiore/Arona. From the toll gate you descend in a few minutes towards the town centre. Attention on summer weekends: traffic can be heavy and the lakefront parking fills up quickly – however there are several pay parking areas in the centre (near the station and along the lakefront) and a large free area near the Rocchette area, next to the public beach. By train, Arona is served by the international Simplon line (Milan–Domodossola–Brig) and is easily reachable from Milan in about 60 minutes without changes. Numerous Trenord regional trains connect Milan Centrale and Porta Garibaldi to Arona daily (R23 line, via Gallarate–Sesto Calende). For example, you can take a direct train from Milan Centrale in the morning and arrive in Arona in exactly one hour, ready to start your visit. The Arona station is central, a short walk from the lakefront. By train you can also easily arrive from Novara (Arona–Novara line) and from Domodossola/Verbania to the north. For those arriving by plane, the nearest airport is Milan Malpensa, which is only 30 km away: from Malpensa there is a shuttle service Alibus Lago Maggiore that in about 40 minutes takes you directly to Arona (train station) with several daily runs bookable online – a convenient solution at a cost of around €12 each way. Alternatively, from Malpensa you can take a train (Malpensa Express line) to Sesto Calende or Gallarate and from there continue on a regional train to Arona. Once in Arona, it’s easy to get around the town on foot; to explore the surroundings, a car or public boats (see attractions section) or local buses can be useful: there are regional bus lines connecting Arona with Stresa, the Alto Vergante villages (Massino Visconti, Nebbiuno) and with Novara, operated by companies like Comazzi and SAF. For example, an extra-urban line connects Arona to Stresa via Lesa and Meina along the coast. At the Arona tourist office (IAT, Largo Vidale near the dock) you can ask for timetables and transport maps.
Practical tips for the visit: Arona can be visited all year round, but the best period is from spring to early autumn. In spring (April-June) you’ll find mild weather, blooming gardens and not too many people – ideal for enjoying walks and visits calmly. The summer (July-August) is the liveliest season: the town fills with tourists, the lake is perfect for swimming and water sports, and evenings are animated with events and markets; on the downside, be prepared for some heat and more crowding on weekends. September is an excellent month: still pleasant temperatures but lower turnout compared to August. In winter, Arona is very peaceful: the climate is humid and chilly (rarely drops below zero though), some tourist services reduce their hours (e.g. boats run less frequently, some attractions like the Sancarlone may close), but you can enjoy the real local atmosphere without the crowds. If you come in February-March, inquire about the Aronese Carnival known as the Tredicino: it’s a folk tradition with rides, funfair and parades that animates the town at the end of winter. Another characteristic event is the patron saint’s festival of San Carlo on November 4, with religious celebrations at the Sancarlone and market stalls. As for clothing: in summer, bring comfortable shoes, a hat and sunscreen for excursions; in winter, don’t forget a rain jacket or umbrella (it rains frequently) and a warm jacket for boat trips (it’s always breezy on the lake). Arona is considered a safe and welcoming destination: you can stroll calmly even in the evening along the lakeside, perhaps stopping for an ice cream under the lights of the promenade. Finally, here’s a small suggested itinerary for a day in Arona: morning at the Colossus of Saint Charles and the Church of San Carlo, lunch in the centre with lake specialities, afternoon walk to the fortress and relax in the park, sunset on the lakeside perhaps with an aperitif, evening dinner in a typical restaurant and a final ice cream in the square. And remember: by staying at Hartmann Feel At Home in Gignese you have the advantage of a quiet place to return to in the evening, away from the hustle, ready to welcome you with a jacuzzi among the trees or a cup of herbal tea in the common lounge. After exploring the beauties of Arona, nothing is better than retreating to this corner of peace: the journey doesn’t end with the last photo taken, but continues when you relax and savour the memories you just created. Happy journey to Arona and enjoy your stay at Hartmann Feel At Home!
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