Lake Maggiore

One of the largest and most popular lakes in Italy, Lake Maggiore has long been a haven for artists and poets enchanted by its romantic charm.

The shoreline is dotted with palatial 19th Century villas and landscaped gardens, and with its proximity to the Swiss border, spectacular mountains provide the perfect backdrop. There are ferries connecting the resorts of Baveno and Stresa and the beautiful Borromean Islands, and buses also serve towns around the lake.

Lake Maggiore straddles the Italian and Swiss borders incorporating Italy’s Piedmont and Lombardy regions and Switzerland’s Ticino canton. You can explore the beauty of this region on foot or by ferry or, if you prefer something a little more challenging, the Santa Anna Gorge at the end of the Cannobino River is a popular place for white water rafting and kayaking. For sheer, unadulterated views, take a cable car from Stresa Lido to the top of Mottarone Mountain where you can enjoy some of the most breathtaking vistas in all of Italy.

Lake Maggiore Resorts

BAVENO

A peaceful and elegant resort on the west side of romantic Lake Maggiore, Baveno is a small lakeside town with a pretty promenade and lots of friendly bars where you can sit by the lake shore and enjoy a drink or an ice cream. It is particularly well known for its pretty pink granite quarries, natural mineral springs and stunning 19th Century villas and castles.

STRESA

South of Baveno lies the chic resort of Stresa, lined with shops, restaurants and cafes. With its many island attractions, woodland walks with panoramic lake views, beautiful gardens, churches, markets and culture, the town offers no shortage of things to do. The gardens of Isola Bella are a short ferry ride away, or you can enjoy dinner in one of the fine seafood restaurants on Isola dei Pescatori.

Recommended Excursions

Borromean Islands
Lake Maggiore is renowned for its three beautiful Borromean Islands, Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola Pescatori - definitely worth a boat trip!

Lake Orta
The medieval village of Orta San Giulio is a favourite with Italians and the mystical island of Isola San Giulio.

Villa Taranto Gardens
Take half a day to stroll through the exquisitely landscaped and world renowned gardens of Villa Taranto in Verbania.

Lake Maggiore Tailormade Holidays

Topflight would be delighted to incorporate Lake Maggiore into a tailormade holiday for you. Lake Maggiore and Milan are a wonderful combination if you enjoy some retail therapy in the fashion capital of the world. Alternatively combine Lake Maggiore alongside one of the other charming Italian lakes namely Lake Como. In terms of duration you can choose what suits you best, simply talk to us and we will be delighted to guide you through the various options available.