Lake Maggiore is surrounded by woodland trails, iconic Italian villas and the remarkable Borromean Islands. Whether you want to stroll through artisan markets or meander along a scenic lakefront promenade, Lake Maggiore is the perfect setting for an Italian retreat.

Don’t miss the palatial gardens and villas on Isola Bella and Isola Madre. Featuring aromatic rhododendrons, exotic peacocks and the largest Kashmir cypress in Europe, bird and nature lovers will delight at the sights found on these two Borromean Islands.

Feeling adventurous? Take the Bucket Lift at Laveno, a single-capacity bucket that takes individual passengers up Sasso del Ferro mountain. Enjoy fresh Italian gelato and a scenic panoramic view from a large, open-air terrace at the top.

If you want an island all to yourself, spend the night on Isola Pescatori. Wait until the last ferries whisk the day travellers away, sneak back to your room to refresh and enjoy a romantic evening at one of the island’s famous seafood restaurants.

Getting around

Lake Maggiore is serviced by Swiss and Italian rail lines, making train travel the most convenient method of reaching attractions. Ferries and hydrofoils connect major towns and islands, while buses loop around Lake Maggiore.