Lake Maggiore, or Lago di Maggiore, is one of Italy’s largest and most popular lakes. Formed from a glacier, the lake is surrounded by hills in the south and mountains to the north. This long and narrow lake stretches about 40 miles in length yet ranges from .5 to 2.5 miles in width, with a total shoreline distance of approximately 93 miles. Consequently, it offers year-round tourist activities paired with a mild climate, making it an ideal destination at almost any time of year.
Location
Lake Maggiore is situated just north of Milan, along the border of Italy’s Lombardy and Piemonte regions, with the northern part of the lake extending into southern Switzerland. Notably, the lake is located just 12 miles north of Milan’s Malpensa Airport, providing convenient access for travelers.
Where to Stay
Travelers can find an array of hotels lining the shores of the lake. Stresa is among the main tourist towns, featuring a variety of hotels, restaurants, shops, and a train station, along with a harbor for ferry and excursion boats.
Transportation
The western shore of Lake Maggiore is served by a rail line connecting Milan to Geneva (Switzerland), with stops in various towns including Arona and Stresa. Furthermore, Locarno, a town in Switzerland at the northern end of the lake, is accessible via this rail line. The closest airport remains Milan’s Malpensa Airport. Additionally, bus services operate between Malpensa Airport and the lake towns of Dormelletto, Arona, Belgirate, Stresa, Baveno, Pallanza, and Verbania, provided by Alibus. It is advisable to confirm schedules with the bus company, particularly if traveling outside of the summer season.
Getting Around
Ferries and hydrofoils efficiently connect the major towns along the lake and serve the islands. Moreover, bus services operate between various towns surrounding the lake. A delightful day trip option from Stresa includes taking a ferry or hydrofoil to Switzerland and then returning via train.
Top Attractions
- Borromean Islands: These picturesque islands can be accessed by ferry from Stresa—Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori.
- Park of Villa Pallavicino: Located near Stresa, this park features extensive botanical and zoological gardens, showcasing a variety of plant and animal species. It remains open daily from March through October.
- Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens: These stunning botanical gardens are situated in the quaint town of Verbania, not far from the Swiss glaciers.
- Lagoni di Mercurago Nature Park: This park, located in the hills outside Arona near Mercurago, offers excellent opportunities for hiking and mountain biking, as it is closed to motor vehicles. The park is home to numerous animals, birds, and plant species, along with several small lakes.
- Mottarone: Access to this mountain can be gained via a cable car from Stresa Lido or by driving up the scenic Borromea Road. Upon reaching the summit, visitors can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the lake district and the Alps. In summer, the area is perfect for hiking or painting, while winter transforms it into a skiing destination.
- Castles and Fortresses: The Rocca di Arona, perched on cliffs above Arona, offers stunning views of the lake. This fortress, once a battleground, now serves as a public park attracting ducks and peacocks. The 12th-century Rocca di Angera is a well-preserved castle housing a doll museum, while the castles of Cannero, located near the Swiss border, rest on a rocky island close to the shore.
- Church of Santa Caterina del Sasso: This 12th-century church is impressively built into the cliffs and can be accessed by a walking path or boat.
- Orrido di Sant’Anna: This gorge at the end of the Cannobino River is a popular destination for whitewater rafting and kayaking.
