The second largest lake in Italy borders Switzerland, yet boasts a surprisingly Mediterranean climate, that is even mild in the winter given it’s northern placement. Treat your family this holiday season to a trip of beauty and luxury with a jet charter to Lake Maggiore.
Travel into Stresa and stay in Verbania at a hotel or rent a villa for at least a week so you can be sure to take in a few of the spectacular sites in and around the lake. There are plenty of things to do. You can start by visiting the lush botanical gardens, and check out the exotic birds especially on Isola Madre. Isola Bella is another island that shouldn’t be missed; its Borromeo villa has a terrific garden and enchanting architecture. Take a ferry ride around the lake or rent a boat to sight see and visit the islands scattered about the lake or even cross to the Swiss side.
Enjoy a different open-aired market each day of the week: Monday is Baveno, Tueday in Arona, Wednesday in Luino, Thursday in Amegna, Friday in Stresa and Pallanza and Saturday in Intra and Sunday’s host is Cannobio.
The Isola dei Pescatori only houses a population of about 60, but it is definitely a great place to eat. In fact most houses on the island use their terrace as a restaurant or café. Both Hotel Verbano’s inside and outside restaurants are very well known for their food. Be sure to add it to the surely long list of fantastic places you must eat.
Lake Maggiore’s climate and granite from the surrounding mountains has enriched the soil making this place particularly ideal for certain types of vegetation including the rare and exotic. Rhododendrons, camellias and azaleas are featured in botanical festival and exhibitions every year in the spring. If you plan a trip around March you may even be able to attend.
Though Lake Garda and Lake Como are lovely and popular tourist destinations, Lake Maggiore really is a gem among them. It is no wonder that Flaubert, Hemingway and Byron all spent time there, enchanted by its awe inspiring scenery. The people are very pleasant and enjoyable to engage. It’s a perfect place for either a romantic get-a-way or family vacation. There are activities and interests for people of all ages and interests. The fresh air and natural scenery will seduce and engage even urbanites and tech geeks. People who love a good tall tale may enjoy the folklore that claims there is a monster in the lake. It is rumored to have a horse’s head and is mostly perpetuated by tourists and not locals.
Discover the rich history of the Italian royalty like the Borromeo family, who were responsible for many of the villas on the islands, and revel in their contribution to the architecture that makes Lake Maggiore stand out. This place is sure to be the perfect vacation spot for you and your family, jet charter there as soon as you can!
Logan is a travel writer and dog enthusiast, who has recently taken a jet charter to Lake Maggiore with his family.
