Lake Maggiore Highlights

Imagine a place where you can relax on a beach, explore ancient ruins, and try out water sports all in one day. Lake Maggiore, divided between Italy and Switzerland, offers this perfect blend of tranquility and adventure.

From sipping wine in a vineyard to hiking up a mountain, Lake Maggiore has it all. Discover the typical towns, explore the enchanting landscapes, and experience the delicious local cuisine.

With its crystal-clear waters, a majestic mountains background, and rich cultural heritage, Lake Maggiore is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Let’s embark on a journey to explore its beauty and create unforgettable memories.

Must-see Towns and Villages

The area is is like a playground for the coolest towns. Each one has its own unique character, from artificial and botanical paradise islands to wine and cheese country. Here’s a quick guide to the must-see spots:

Stresa and Borromean Islands

Stresa offers a variety of attractions. Visit the Villa Pallavicino, a magnificent villa adorned with beautiful gardens and a collection of art and sculptures. Explore the Villa Ducale, a historic villa with elegant interiors and panoramic views of the lake.

Connected by a short ferry ride, Borromean islands are waiting for you to be discovered. This trio of islands— three are the main islands, the fourth is so much little and the fifth is just a rocky formation- Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori are the correct representation of the expression “heaven on earth”.

Isola Bella boasts a majestic Baroque palace and terraced gardens adorned with exotic flowers. Isola Madre is a botanical paradise, featuring lush gardens and a historic villa. Isola dei Pescatori, a quaint fishing village, invites visitors to explore its narrow streets and enjoy fresh seafood.

Verbania

Wander through the historic center of Verbania, admiring the elegant villas, vibrant piazzas, and charming shops. Discover the Villa Taranto, a renowned botanical garden showcasing a diverse collection of exotic plants and flowers.

For nature enthusiasts, Verbania offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Hike through the nearby mountains, enjoying breathtaking panoramic views. Explore the lush forests, discover hidden grottoes, or take a boat trip to the nearby islands.

Did you know that Verbania’s historic center is home to several landmarks? Yes, those include the Villa San Remigio and the Chiesa di San Vittore. Explore these historic sites and learn about the town’s rich heritage.

Cannobio

History lovers will appreciate Cannobio‘s rich heritage. Explore the historic center, visiting the Piazza San Vittore and the Chiesa di San Vittore. Discover the Rocca di Cannobio, a medieval fortress perched on a hill overlooking the town.

Rent a bike and explore the scenic trails surrounding the town. Or, take a boat trip to discover hidden grottoes and unknown beaches along the lake. Cannobio is also a popular destination for water sports, with opportunities for swimming, sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing.

Don’t miss Orrido di Sant’Anna. This is a dramatic gorge carved by the Cannobino River, offering a unique and unforgettable experience. The well-maintained trail leads through lush greenery to a crystal-clear pool, perfect for swimming. The surrounding cliffs create a serene atmosphere, and the nearby 17th-century church of Sant’Anna adds a touch of history and spirituality to this natural wonder.

Angera

Angera, a charming historical town on Lake Maggiore, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, offers a unique and captivating experience. This town is renowned for its majestic Rocca Borromea castle, stunning lake views, and peaceful ambiance.

The Rocca Borromea, a 13th-century castle perched on a hill, is the town’s main attraction. Filled with fascinating exhibits and artifacts, exploring this castle is like stepping back in time. For those seeking outdoor adventures, Angera offers various activities, including hiking, cycling, and boating.

Beyond the castle, Angera boasts several other must-see attractions. The Bruschera Oasis, a nature reserve, offers a peaceful escape with diverse flora and fauna. The San Quirico hill, with its unique geological formations and historical chapel, provides stunning panoramic views. Additionally, Angera is home to the Doll and Toy Museum, a delightful place for both children and adults, and the Civic Archaeological Museum, showcasing the region’s rich history.

Arona

Arona, a genlte on Lake Maggiore, offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and modern amenities. This picturesque destination is easily accessible from Milan and boasts a rich history dating back centuries. One of the town’s most iconic landmarks is the Colosso of San Carlo Borromeo.

This towering statue stands tall on a hill overlooking the lake and is a testament to the area’s deep-rooted faith and devotion. Arona also features the Rocca Borromea Park, a peaceful green oasis with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

For history enthusiasts, Arona offers a glimpse into the past with the Mercurago Lakes Natural Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site features preserved pile-dwelling settlements that provide valuable insights into prehistoric life. Additionally, the town’s historical center is a treasure trove of ancient churches, medieval towers, and Renaissance palaces, inviting visitors to explore its rich heritage.

Activities and Attractions

Try out water sports like windsurfing, kayaking, or even a zipline. You can go from sipping wine in a vineyard to hiking up a mountain in just a few hours.

Water sports on Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore offers a plethora of water sports for adventure seekers. For those seeking a more relaxed pace, consider a boat tour. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, why not rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the lake’s hidden coves and secluded beaches? Waterskiing and wakeboarding are popular activities, and the lake’s calm waters provide the perfect conditions for learning or perfecting these sports. For a truly unique experience, try windsurfing or kitesurfing, harnessing the power of the wind to glide across the water.

Hiking and Biking on nearby mountains

Lake Maggiore offers a variety of hiking trails for beginners and more demanding routes for experienced hikers. One of the most popular hiking trails is the Sentiero dei Sassi, which winds its way through the picturesque town of Brissago. This trail offers breathtaking views of the lake and the Swiss Alps. Biking is another great way to explore the beauty of Lake Maggiore.

There are several bike paths that follow the shoreline of the lake. Ciclopista del Lago Maggiore is an example (similar to the Ciclopista del Maggiore on Lake Maggiore), which stretches for over 100 kilometers along the shores of the lake. This route is suitable for all levels of cyclists and offers stunning views of the lake and the mountains. Furthermore, there are other circular routes on the nearby lakes of Orta and Mergozzo.

Theme parks in the region

Another really fun activity is visit Lake Maggiore’s nearby Theme Parks. If you’re seeking a thrilling alpine adventure without the need to climb mountains, Alpyland is your destination. This modern theme park is located in the heart of the Alps, offering a wide range of exhilarating rides and attractions for all ages.

For a more nature-based adventure, on Mottarone mountain you’ll find Mottaone Adventure Park is a must-visit. This aerial adventure park features a series of challenging obstacle courses suspended high above the ground. And dulcis in fundo, experience the thrill of flying like a bird with Lago Maggiore ZIPline. This exhilarating zipline course takes you on a breathtaking journey above the crystal-clear waters of Lake Maggiore.

Food and Wine of Lake Maggiore

Think Italian cuisine, but amped up. We’re talking fresh seafood straight from the lake, local cheese that’ll make your taste buds dance, and wine that’s so good, you’ll want to bring a bottle home.

Typical breakfast

The cornerstone of any good Italian breakfast is fresh bread, and you’ll find no shortage of options in the local bakeries. It can be more (not a lot) salty like baguettes or a sweet dough like fluffy brioches. To accompany your bread, you’ll often find a selection of sweet and savory toppings.

Butter and jam are classic choices, but you might also encounter Nutella, honey, or marmalade. No Italian breakfast is complete without a cup of coffee. We know that we are renowned for our love of coffee, so you’ll find plenty of cafes serving up delicious espressos, cappuccinos, and lattes.

Lunch and Dinner options on the Lake

Lake Maggiore is renowned for its pristine waters, and this natural bounty translates into some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste. Whitefish, such as coregone and alborella, are local favorites and are often prepared simply, allowing their delicate flavors to shine. Whether baked, fried, or marinated in carpione, these fish are a must-try for any visitor. The mountainous regions surrounding Lake Maggiore are home to a variety of unique cheeses. Bettelmatt, Toma del Mottarone, Casat del Baldo and Ossolano d’Alpe are just a few of the local cheeses that are worth seeking out.

When it comes to dessert, the options are endless. Chocolate lovers will be in heaven with the region’s artisanal chocolates, while those with a sweeter tooth can indulge in freshly baked apple pies and traditional butter cookies. Don’t miss the opportunity to try local specialties like Margheritine di Stresa, biscotti di Novara, Brutti ma Buoni di Borgomanero, and Baci di Arona.

Wine experiences

Savor the taste of history as you explore the vineyards of Lake Maggiore. The region has a rich viticultural heritage, with grape varieties like Tarlap and Prunent, which have been cultivated here for centuries. Many wineries on Lake Maggiore offer you the wine tour, that is the opportunity to visit local their establishment and meet the passionate winemakers behind the labels. These dedicated artisans share their expertise and knowledge, guiding you through the winemaking process from grape to glass.

If you’re a wine enthusiast, you’ve likely heard of Merlot. In Ticino, this grape variety reigns supreme, accounting for over 80% of the vineyards. The region’s unique climate and soil conditions produce Merlots with a vibrant ruby color, fresh notes, and a delightful complexity.

While Merlot is undoubtedly the star of the show, there are many other grape varieties worth exploring. The Americana grape, often found growing on pergolas, adds a touch of sweetness to the region’s wines. The Bondola, a grape variety once widely cultivated, is now primarily found in Ticino. And for white wine lovers, Chardonnay is grown in significant quantities, producing elegant and aromatic wines.

Ready to plan your vacation to Lake Maggiore? Start organizing your ideal trip by consulting our other guides and resources. We can’t wait to hear about your adventure!