Where to Stay near the Orrido di Sant’Anna and Surroundings

Sep 7, 2025

Introduction to the Orrido di Sant’Anna and surroundings

The Orrido di Sant’Anna is a hidden natural wonder near Cannobio, a picturesque town on the Upper Lake Maggiore at the Swiss border. It is an impressive gorge about 25 meters deep, carved over millennia of erosion by the Cannobino torrent. From the stone bridge that crosses it you can admire sheer, smooth rock walls plunging into the emerald-green water below, while the spray and roar of the torrent create a fresh and evocative atmosphere. Perched on a rocky spur stands the small Sanctuary of Sant’Anna, built in the 17th century, giving the landscape a fairytale touch.

The surrounding area is an oasis of unspoiled nature: the gorge lies at the entrance to the Val Cannobina, the gateway to the Val Grande National Park, and offers a taste of the wild side of Lake Maggiore. Yet it is easily accessible – just 3 km from Cannobio – by car or on foot. A level cycling and walking path starts from the Cannobio Lido and follows the stream for about 40–45 minutes to the gorge, making the visit a simple excursion suitable for everyone (including families with children and strollers). Alternatively, you can reach the Orrido di Sant’Anna in a few minutes by car from the center of Cannobio, parking near the entrance of the sanctuary. Along the way, the atmosphere shifts from the lively lakeside to the sounds of nature: birdsong, leaves moved by the wind and, as you approach the gorge, the growing roar of the water. Upon arrival at the gorge, you’ll find a cool microclimate even in summer, an ideal place for a refreshing break in the quiet, in the shade of the woods and next to the crystal-clear waters of the stream.

Why choose Hartmann Feel At Home

If you’re looking for accommodation that combines family hospitality, modern comfort and a strategic position, Hartmann Feel At Home is the answer. This family-run B&B is located in the quiet hillside village of Gignese (above Stresa), about 50 minutes’ pleasant drive from Cannobio. Staying here means you can explore the beauty of the Orrido di Sant’Anna and Lake Maggiore by day, then retreat in the evening to an oasis of peace and nature away from the crowd. The property occupies a stately villa from the 1930s, fully restored in 2022, set at 700 m altitude in a park of century-old trees. Thanks to the elevated position, after the heat of the lake you are welcomed by cooler temperatures and mountain air, ideal for resting. Guests describe Hartmann as a “refuge among lush gardens and mountain views,” where silence and relaxation reign after a day of excursions.

Staying at Hartmann Feel At Home also means enjoying a personalized and warm welcome that lives up to the establishment’s name. The owners – an Italian-Swiss family – make every guest feel like a long-time friend, embodying values of kindness, courtesy and genuine attention. From sincere advice on places to visit to small touches (like a welcome drink served on the terrace at sunset), every detail is cared for. Many travelers note that “they treat you like a relative, not a customer,” creating a truly multilingual and inclusive environment: the hosts speak Italian, English, German and French fluently and love to share their passion for the area with guests from all backgrounds. In addition to human warmth, Hartmann offers a high level of comfort at honest prices: the rooms are tastefully furnished, air-conditioned and equipped with free Wi-Fi; a rich breakfast is included in the morning; and services such as private parking, impeccable cleaning and assistance with bookings are guaranteed, all at very competitive rates compared to hotels on the lake.

Hartmann Feel At Home also proves suitable for every type of traveler. Couples find it perfect for a romantic getaway, thanks to intimate attic rooms (there is one in the turret with a very charming balcony) and quiet gardens for strolling hand in hand. Families appreciate the spacious family suites and the large safe garden – there is even a trampoline and a small pool to entertain the little ones while parents relax in the shade. Even solo travelers and backpackers find their place: uniquely for a B&B, Hartmann has a shared dormitory in hostel style, an economical option that encourages socializing without giving up the quiet of a villa on a hill. In short, by choosing Hartmann you’ll have a cosy panoramic base that combines serenity, friendly service and convenience, while still keeping you within a short drive of Cannobio, the Orrido di Sant’Anna and other lake attractions.

Here’s why Hartmann Feel At Home is the perfect base near the Orrido di Sant’Anna:

Easy to reach but away from the crowd: from Hartmann you can reach Cannobio in about 45–50 minutes by car along one of the most scenic roads of Lake Maggiore. You can enjoy excursions to the lake and the gorge by day, and then return to the quiet hills in the evening under a starry sky.
Quiet spaces immersed in nature: the guesthouse is surrounded by greenery and offers bright rooms with wooden and stone furnishings. After walking around Cannobio or admiring the Sant’Anna gorge, you’ll appreciate the silence and privacy of your room overlooking the garden or the mountains.
Ideal for couples, families and “slow travelers”: whether you’re on a romantic getaway, traveling with children or exploring on your own, Hartmann offers tailor-made services – extra beds and cribs, books and games for kids, outdoor spaces to play, and flexibility in schedules to suit your relaxed pace.
Genuine breakfast to start the day well: every morning you’ll find a generous breakfast with fresh bread, homemade jams, yogurt, fruit and local specialties. Vegan or gluten-free options are available on request, all served in a family atmosphere that will make you feel pampered before you even set off on your adventure.
Relax after adventures on the lake: after a dip in the lake or a day of trekking, when you return to the B&B you can treat yourself to moments of pure relaxation. There’s a hot tub in the garden where you can unwind, a panoramic terrace for reading a book at sunset, and even a yoga room for meditation or stretching in the morning. Regeneration comes easily and naturally here.
Green base to explore the entire region: from Gignese’s central location you can easily reach not only Cannobio and the gorge but also other beauties of Lake Maggiore. In a day you can visit Verbania, Stresa, the Borromean Islands, Lake Orta or the Ossola valleys, knowing that when you return the tranquility of your “home away from home” awaits.
Multilingual hospitality and total availability: the hosts are always ready to help you plan your days, suggesting lesser-known scenic routes, typical restaurants or perfect picnic spots. Thanks to their international experience, they communicate in multiple languages and understand the needs of both Italian and foreign tourists. You’ll feel cared for and understood, no matter where you come from.

In short, Hartmann Feel At Home offers what lakeside accommodations can’t: true calm, space to breathe and the authentic feeling of being at home, while still staying within easy reach of all the wonders of the Orrido di Sant’Anna and Lake Maggiore.

Types of accommodation

Hartmann Feel At Home has six unique rooms plus a shared dormitory, designed to meet diverse needs. Each room is inspired by chakra colours and combines the historic character of the villa (vaulted ceilings, wooden floors, large windows) with modern, functional furnishings. Here’s an overview of the available accommodations:

Family suites: families or groups of up to 4 people can choose between two spacious suites. The Swadhisthana Orange suite is a family apartment of about 50 m² divided into two communicating rooms (separated by a sliding door) – ideal for giving parents and children their own space while staying together. The Indigo Vishuddha suite is instead a comfortable quadruple of 31 m², with two single beds and a sofa bed in an adjacent sitting room. Both suites offer plenty of space to relax, a private bathroom and views of the garden or mountains. Families love the extra touches: one suite even has a walk-in wardrobe and private yoga corner, and the other direct access to the garden (where, as mentioned, there’s a trampoline for the kids!).
Double rooms: for couples or solo travellers looking for an intimate retreat, Hartmann offers several cosy doubles. For example, the Manipura Yellow room is a double of 16.5 m² with a French bed (slightly wider than a standard double): a bright room decorated in sunny tones, overlooking the garden – perfect for a couple. Other doubles, such as Ajna Turquoise or Sahasrara Purple, vary between ~16 and 20 m², each decorated in a relaxing palette and equipped with a modern private bathroom. There’s also Anahata Green, a triple room of about 30 m² furnished with two single beds on the ground level plus a characteristic loft bed (accessed by a small ladder): a fun solution for a couple with a child or for three friends travelling together (children love the elevated “den” bed). All doubles and triples offer a cosy and quiet environment to retreat after excursions.
Shared dormitory: a rare feature for a B&B, Hartmann also offers a mixed dormitory in hostel style, designed for backpackers or groups of friends seeking an economical option. The shared room Muladhara Red is about 20 m² and has three beds in total: two single beds plus a bunk sofa bed in a separate corner. This dormitory, officially classified as a “three-bed shared apartment”, has a shared bathroom on the same floor and is furnished in a welcoming, youthful style. Even guests in the dorm enjoy the same warm atmosphere of the B&B and can access all the villa’s common areas. It’s the ideal option for backpackers or solo travellers who want to save money and perhaps socialize, without giving up the quiet and services of a beautiful hilltop villa.

Regardless of the accommodation chosen, all guests benefit from a consistent set of comforts. Every room (and the dorm) has a dedicated bathroom – either en-suite or exclusively private outside – complete with shower, hairdryer and a bio bathroom kit. The Wi-Fi connection is free and reaches all rooms and the garden. Quality sheets and fresh towels are provided, and the cleaning service keeps everything immaculate. The rooms have air conditioning for summer nights and individual heating for the cooler months, ensuring a comfortable stay in every season. Many rooms also have a desk or reading corner, useful for those travelling and needing to use a laptop or write postcards.

Every morning, as mentioned, a generous breakfast buffet is included. Guests gather in the bright breakfast room or on the outdoor terrace to start the day with fresh bread and croissants, homemade jams and honey, fruit, yogurt, cereals, cold cuts and cheeses, eggs prepared on request and, of course, coffee, tea and cappuccinos as desired. Options are available for special diets (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free) so everyone can start satisfied before heading out on their adventures.

Services and common areas

One of the strengths of Hartmann Feel At Home is the range of services offered and the attention to common areas, which make the stay comfortable and special like in a boutique hotel, but with the intimate atmosphere of a home. Guests have at their disposal the following services and shared spaces:

Panoramic garden: the villa is surrounded by a private park of 5,000 m² with century-old trees, flower beds and lawns. In the garden you’ll find sun loungers and hammocks where you can relax in the sun, as well as shaded corners under the trees for reading or napping outdoors. In summer a small pool for children and an outdoor hot tub are set up, where you can cool off or enjoy a hydromassage with a view of the hills. The garden offers plenty of space for children to play safely or for sipping a glass of wine at sunset while admiring the scenery.
Lounge and living area: inside on the ground floor there’s a cosy common lounge with comfortable sofas, armchairs and a distinctive circular fireplace. This space is open to all guests – perfect for relaxing in the evening, maybe by the fire on cooler nights, or for socializing with other travellers. In the lounge you’ll also find a selection of books and magazines, board games and a corner with a kettle to prepare tea and herbal drinks whenever you wish.
Yoga and meditation room: on the first floor of the villa there is a quiet, bright yoga/meditation room, available for guests who want to stretch, practise yoga or simply carve out a moment of inner peace. The owners, enthusiasts of holistic disciplines, have furnished this space with mats, cushions and candles, creating a serene atmosphere. It’s a much appreciated plus for those who want to keep up their wellness routines even on vacation.
Modern services: the entire property is covered by free high-speed Wi-Fi, so you can share vacation photos or work remotely if needed. For those arriving by car, there’s free private parking right in front of the villa – a significant convenience given that many lakeside properties lack reserved parking. Hartmann also offers the option of using a self-service laundry on request (useful for longer stays or families with small children). Additionally, at the entrance there’s a small bar corner with an espresso machine and snacks, where guests can serve themselves hot drinks during the day or purchase local products like artisanal jams and honey to take home.
Assistance and extras: the hosts live on the neighbouring property and are almost always available for any need – whether it’s printing documents, providing adapters, lending trekking poles or giving you a lift to a trailhead. On prior request, they can organize private transfers (for example, a pick-up at Stresa station or the airport) and prepare packed lunches for your day trips. The idea is to make you truly feel “at home,” free from logistical worries and with everything you need at hand.

In summary, Hartmann Feel At Home combines the quality services of a professional accommodation – from the included breakfast to fast Wi-Fi – with those special touches and personalized attention that only a passionate family management can offer. Whether you want to relax in nature, do some remote work, let your kids play outdoors or socialize with other travellers, you’ll find the right space here.

What to do in the surroundings

The area around Cannobio and the Orrido di Sant’Anna offers numerous activities and places to discover. Though a small area, the possibilities range from nature to sport, from culture to simple idleness. Here are some ideas on what to do and see nearby to make the most of the region:

Market and village life (Sunday mornings): if you find yourself in Cannobio on a Sunday, don’t miss the historic weekly market along the lakeside. Every Sunday the promenade fills with colourful, fragrant stalls: Ossola cheeses, cured meats, honey and mushrooms from nearby Piedmont, bread and artisanal sweets, as well as crafts, clothing and souvenirs. It’s an open-air celebration of voices, flavours and colours, with the sparkling lake as a backdrop – the perfect occasion to mingle with locals, taste a freshly baked focaccia or buy local products. The market starts early and runs until around 14:00; peak time is around 10–11 when residents and tourists alike crowd the stalls. After the market (or on other days), take a leisurely stroll through the historic centre of Cannobio: from the old harbour with the fishermen’s boats, walk up the cobbled alleys of the old village, past houses with flowered balconies, medieval arches and stately buildings. Two cultural stops not to miss are the Sanctuary of the Santissima Pietà (overlooking the lakefront, a splendid 16th-century church linked to a miracle of 1522, rich with frescoes and baroque decorations) and the Collegiate Church of San Vittore, with its neoclassical façade and high Romanesque bell tower dominating the skyline. Immersing yourself in Cannobio’s atmosphere means travelling back in time: in these streets you perceive the centuries-old history of the village, along with the liveliness of today’s gelaterias, wine bars and craft shops that dot the streets.
Beaches, lake and water sports: when the sun shines, there’s nothing better than relaxing by the lake. Cannobio boasts one of the most beautiful and clean lake beaches in Italy, awarded the prestigious Blue Flag for water quality and services. The Lido di Cannobio, located at the northern end of town, offers a wide beach of fine gravel mixed with sand and a large tree-shaded lawn. Here you can sunbathe in tranquility, swim in the clear lake waters (which reach pleasant temperatures in summer) or rent pedal boats, canoes and stand up paddles to explore the coast. The Lido is equipped with showers, toilets, a playground and even a windsurfing and kitesurfing school – indeed the area is known among enthusiasts for the afternoon breeze that creates ideal conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing. There’s also a beach bar with terrace where you can enjoy a panino, have a gelato or sip an aperitif at sunset without leaving the beach. Besides the main Lido, along the coast there are other small beaches and more secluded coves: for example the locality San Carlo a little further south, or, on the opposite Lombard shore, the beach of Maccagno (reachable in a few minutes by boat) – great alternatives if you’re looking for less crowded spots. Spending an afternoon swimming, playing beach volleyball and enjoying the sweet idleness on the shore is a summer must here at the extreme north of Lake Maggiore.
Nature and trekking to the Orrido di Sant’Anna: hiking enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy. Behind Cannobio rise the mountains of the Val Cannobina, covered in chestnut forests and traversed by streams and waterfalls – a paradise for trekking. An easy, accessible walk is the one to the Orrido di Sant’Anna itself. As described, a flat path of about 3.5 km connects Cannobio’s lakeside to the sanctuary of the gorge, following the Cannobino: a pleasant walk (about 45 minutes each way) ideal for families and anyone wanting to combine a stroll and a scenic visit. Once at the gorge, after admiring the deep chasm and perhaps refreshing yourself in the pool of water under the bridge, you can take a more adventurous detour by tackling more challenging trails going into the valley. For example, a path climbs steeply to the alpine hamlet of Sant’Agata (480 m) and Monte Giove (1,298 m) – more demanding hikes for experienced hikers, with stunning views over the lake and Switzerland from above. Alternatively, returning to Cannobio, you can cross the characteristic Ponte Ballerino (a “wobbling” suspension bridge from 1933) and follow Sentiero 2 which makes a scenic loop back to town along the other bank of the torrent. A hidden gem for lovers of historic villages is Carmine Superiore, a tiny abandoned medieval village perched on a promontory just south of Cannobio: it can only be reached on foot via a 20-minute mule track, but rewards with stone houses frozen in the 15th century and a frescoed church (San Gottardo) that dominates the lake from above – a magical, timeless place. Finally, after your adventures, nothing prevents you from stopping for dinner at the Grotto Sant’Anna, the rustic restaurant right next to the gorge, famous for its outdoor tables overlooking the waterfall: a perfect way to end the day immersed in nature!
Boat trips and lake excursions: since you’re on Lake Maggiore, take the opportunity to explore beyond the immediate surroundings of Cannobio, perhaps with a pleasant boat trip. In high season, the boats of Navigazione Lago Maggiore regularly connect Cannobio with other lakeside towns. To the north, just 5 km away, lies the Swiss border: by boat (or car) you can reach the elegant Swiss towns of Brissago, Ascona and Locarno in a short time. Locarno, in particular, is worth a visit for its lively lakeside, the historic Piazza Grande, the Visconti Castle and the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Sasso (scenically located on a spur above the city, reachable by funicular). In summer, a cable car departs from Locarno to Cardada-Cimetta, offering one of the most incredible views over Lake Maggiore. On the Swiss side of the lake, a must is the trip to the Brissago Islands: two small green islands just minutes by boat from Brissago/Ascona, famous for their subtropical botanical gardens with over 1,500 species of exotic plants. On the larger island there’s a park to visit and a panoramic restaurant, while the smaller island is a nature reserve. Back in Italy, to the south, you can organize a day trip to discover the pearls of the Middle Lake: for example, boarding at Verbania-Intra (30 km south of Cannobio, reachable by car or bus) for a tour of the famed Borromean Islands. These three islands – Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Madre – offer magnificent gardens, historic palaces full of art and picturesque fishing villages, and are among the most beloved attractions of Lake Maggiore. You could also decide to stop in Stresa, a refined Liberty town, and stroll along its lakeside lined with Belle Époque hotels, or climb to the summit of Mottarone (1,492 m) via the panoramic Borromea road or the chairlift: from the top, on clear days, the view encompasses seven lakes and the surrounding Alps. About an hour’s drive from Cannobio also brings you to the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso on the opposite Lombard shore, an ancient monastery nestled in the rock overhanging the lake – reachable by ferry from Verbania or Laveno and then via stairs or lift. In short, using Cannobio (and Gignese) as your base, the possibilities for lake excursions are endless, and you can taste both the Ticinese spirit to the north and the more Piemontese to the south, making the most of your time in the area.

Where to eat

One of the pleasures of staying in these areas is undoubtedly the discovery of local cuisine. Around Cannobio you’ll find a wide choice of restaurants, osterias and pizzerias suitable for all occasions – from an informal lunch after a hike to a romantic dinner with lake view. Here are some recommended restaurants nearby, with different styles and budgets, worth trying:

Grotto Sant’Anna Restaurant – A unique venue carved into the rock right next to the gorge of the same name. Its outdoor terrace is suspended above the stream, among rock walls and vegetation: dining here, with the sound of the waterfall in the background and soft lighting among the leaves, is a magical and romantic experience. The cuisine offers a creative mix of local and Mediterranean flavours: from traditional gnocchi with nettle pesto to lake fish dishes revisited elegantly. Each course is carefully plated and reflects the seasonality of ingredients (many zero-km). Service is attentive yet discreet, ideal for enjoying the evening slowly. Note that Grotto Sant’Anna is very popular, so it’s best to book in advance – especially to ensure a panoramic table. Perfect for couples seeking an enchanting atmosphere, but also for families wanting a dinner different from the usual (kids will be fascinated by the natural setting!).
Oggi Pasta – An informal trattoria hidden in an alley a few steps from Cannobio’s lakeside, which has become a kind of mecca for pasta lovers. As the name suggests, the menu centers on homemade pasta dishes: tagliatelle, gnocchi, ravioli and lasagne prepared according to tradition and dressed with delicious sauces. The atmosphere is warm and simple, with checkered tablecloths and vintage photos on the walls, and the owners (a young couple) will welcome you with a smile. Among the specialties are the stuffed cannelloni and the daily pasta dish, which varies with the chef’s creativity – often with seasonal products such as porcini mushrooms, pumpkin or Lake perch. The portions are generous and prices more than honest, making Oggi Pasta an ideal stop for families and budget travellers who do not want to compromise on quality. Come hungry and maybe leave room for their homemade tiramisu!
Lo Scalo – This restaurant is located directly on Cannobio’s lakeside promenade and offers wonderful panoramic views from the outdoor tables. Imagine dining with the sparkle of the water a few meters away and the outline of the mountains on the horizon as the sun sets – Lo Scalo gives you just that atmosphere. The menu celebrates both lake and land: among the starters you can try a platter of Ossola cheeses or marinated fish, but the highlight is the dishes based on the freshest lake fish. Whether it’s a risotto with perch, grilled lavaret fillets or whitefish with butter and sage, if you love fish you’re in good hands here. Alternatively, they also offer Piedmontese meat specialties and excellent first courses (risotto Lake Maggiore, pasta with boar ragout, etc.). All accompanied by a good list of local wines. The atmosphere is relaxed and just right; the staff, friendly and professional, can recommend the right wine or tell you about the origin of the ingredients. Reservation is recommended on summer weekends due to the privileged location. Sweet note: many diners swear that the tiramisu here is one of the best in the Verbano area… worth trying!
Trattoria Cannobio da Ale & Vale – An authentic family-run trattoria hidden in a lane of Cannobio’s historic centre, winning hearts with its home cooking and casual atmosphere. Inside you’ll find vaulted ceilings and rustic decor, while outside there’s a small terrace for summer evenings. The menu is a true homage to local tradition and satisfies all tastes: from tagliolini with lake ragù to hearty meat dishes like stewed meat with polenta, and thin pizzas baked to perfection. The owners, Ale and Vale, put passion into every detail – from hand-rolled pasta to the selection of wines from the Ossola valleys. Standout dishes include the homemade ravioli with butter and sage and the linguine with clams, which many consider the best in the area. Generous portions and honest prices make this trattoria a great choice for families with children (you’ll find high chairs and simple dishes for the little ones) or for groups of friends seeking a convivial evening. Service is informal and warm, you’ll feel a bit like family. Leave room for desserts: the bread and milk cake with raisins or the panna cotta with berries will give you the perfect sweet ending.

Of course, these are just some ideas – the area is rich with other interesting places, from artisanal gelaterias (try the chestnut honey gelato in the town centre!) to wine bars where you can have an aperitif with lake view. Whether you’re a gourmet in search of creative cuisine or a casual traveller looking for pizza and beer, Cannobio and its surroundings will satisfy you. And thanks to the genuine hospitality of the local restaurateurs, every meal will become a pleasant memory of your holiday. Enjoy your meal!

How to get there and when to visit

How to get there: Hartmann Feel At Home is located in Gignese (VB), in a hillside position above Stresa. By car, getting there is quite straightforward. For those coming from the south (Milan, Malpensa or the A26), the recommended motorway exit is Carpugnino/Stresa on the A26 Genoa-Gravellona: from there it’s only 10 minutes of scenic climb following the signs for Gignese/Mottarone to reach the villa (which is in Salita Rognoni 10 – entering the address into GPS will take you directly to the wrought-iron gate of the property). Alternatively, for those already in the Cannobio/Orrido area or coming from the north, the most scenic route is to drive the entire SS34 along the west coast of Lake Maggiore: from Cannobio head south passing the beautiful villages of Cannero Riviera (famous for the medieval castles emerging from the waters) and Verbania, enjoying fantastic views of the lake to your left. Beyond Verbania Intra, continue towards Stresa; just before entering Stresa you’ll see signs for “Gignese” and “Giardino Alpinia” on the left: take the provincial road uphill and in about 8 km you’ll be in Gignese. Hartmann is located just beyond the village, a short walk from the Alpino di Stresa Golf Club. In total, from Cannobio allow about 45–50 minutes of travel (about 40 km), combining lakeside and mountain stretches. The property has free on-site parking for guests, so you won’t need to worry about finding a spot.

Getting around by public transport: if you don’t have a car, you can still reach Hartmann Feel At Home with a combination of trains, buses and ferries. The closest train station is Stresa, on the international Milan–Domodossola line (frequent connections from Milan Centrale, travel time ~1 hour). Once in Stresa, the easiest way is to take a taxi to Gignese: the ride lasts only 10–15 minutes uphill. Alternatively, from Stresa there is also a local bus (S.A.F. line) covering the Stresa–Vezzo–Levo–Gignese route several times a day; you can check the updated timetables at the Stresa tourist office or ask the Hartmann owners, who will be happy to help. For those traveling from the Cannobio side, there is a VCO Trasporti bus (Line 3) connecting Cannobio and Verbania, and from Verbania you can continue to Stresa by bus or ferry. In summer, a scenic option is to take a ferry from Cannobio to Stresa or Verbania and then go up to Gignese (note though that ferries on the upper lake have limited schedules). The Hartmann hosts, by prior arrangement, also offer the possibility of organizing private transfers or pick-ups – for example from the Stresa station or the bus stop – to make your trip more comfortable, so don’t hesitate to let them know your needs.

From the airports: the closest international airport is Milan Malpensa (MXP), about 50 km away. By car, from the Malpensa terminal it takes 50 minutes to an hour to reach Gignese, mostly via motorway (Gallarate–Sesto Calende expressway and then A26 up to Carpugnino). Without a car, you can use a Malpensa–Stresa shuttle bus (active in high season) or reach Gallarate station by train/shuttle and from there continue to Stresa by train. Again, the Hartmann hosts will be happy to assist you with shuttle information or possibly arrange a trusted taxi service to pick you up at the airport if you wish.

When to visit: the region of Lake Maggiore and the Orrido di Sant’Anna is fascinating all year round, but the best period to visit is generally from late spring to early autumn. From May to September the climate is ideal: long sunny days, mild/warm temperatures mitigated by the lake breeze on the hills, and nature bursting with colours. During these months, all tourist services are in full swing – boats, beach clubs, lakeside kiosks and restaurants – and you can also enjoy swimming in the lake (in July and August the water reaches around 23–25°C). The months of July and August coincide with the high season: Cannobio and surroundings fill up with visitors, the atmosphere is lively with events, concerts and open-air festivals, but it’s good to expect a bit more crowds and perhaps book restaurants and activities in advance. June and September often offer an excellent compromise: good weather and activity, but with less crowding than Ferragosto. Spring (April and May) gives verdant landscapes and spectacular blooms in the lake’s botanical gardens – a splendid time for trekking without heat, although the lake water is still cool for swimming. Autumn (October) brings warm colours to the surrounding woods and a particular calm; many establishments remain open until All Saints, and you can experience the gorge and trails in almost complete tranquility. In winter, naturally, the climate is colder (snowfalls possible on hills and mountains, while the lake rarely freezes) and tourist inflow greatly reduces: this means you’ll have the landscapes all to yourself and find more convenient rates. Hartmann Feel At Home remains open all year, so it can also be a perfect base for an unusual winter weekend – imagine ending the day sipping hot chocolate by the round fireplace in the lounge, perhaps after snowshoeing in Val Loana or visiting the Christmas markets in Stresa.

Whatever season you decide to visit the Orrido di Sant’Anna and Lake Maggiore, Hartmann Feel At Home will welcome you with open arms and its warm, family atmosphere. Get ready to discover a corner of Piedmont made of spectacular nature, villages rich in history and a tradition of sincere hospitality. Have a great trip and a wonderful stay!

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