Lago Maggiore, especially on vacation, offers a myriad of possibilities for the whole family. The numerous accommodation facilities equipped for children, the international events, the beauty of the landscapes, make it a perfect holiday destination for everyone.
Isole Borromee are certainly one of the most famous attractions of the area. Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola dei Pescatori can be reached by little ferries, which allow us to appreciate the landscapes and colours of the Lake from new perspectives.
Worth seeing also Arona, Stresa e Pallanza: these small towns are real gems, rich in history and secret views to discover. And how can we forget the beautiful botanical gardens of Villa Taranto, known worldwide for their beauty and for the huge number of plants species they host?
In general, Lago Maggiore is one of the greenest areas of Italy. There are many national and regional parks, including Parco Nazionale della Val Grande, Parco Regionale dell’Alpe Veglia e Devero and Oasi Faunistica di Macugnaga. Moreover, the Piedmont shore of the lake is full of natural riserves, such as the Riserva Naturale di Fondotoce, in Verbania, the Parco Naturale dei Lagoni di Mercurago in Arona and the Riserva Naturale di Dormelletto. Don’t miss at last the Parco del Ticino, accessibile from Castelletto Ticino and Sesto Calende.
But that’s not all: Lago Maggiore is also famous for its beaches. They generally are clean and well maintained. The water is very clean and clear, so that everyone will have a great time.The beaches around the lake are mostly very charming and lined of palms and olive trees. In Cannero Riviera there is a beautiful, 400 meters long sand beach, at which you can lie wonderfully in the sun and relax, while the children play in the sand and build castles. Also near Verbania at the estuary mouth of the Borromaen Gulf there are further beautiful sand beaches.Otherwise, if you prefer something more peaceful, you can try the rocky beaches along the rivers in the backcountry, where the water is, however, cooler.
Lago Maggiore’s waters are also ideal for a wide range of water sports: water skiing, scuba diving, sailing and yachting. The combination of winds allows sailing enthusiasts to try their hand at their favourite sport throughout the year. Actually, innumerable sports are available on Lago Maggiore. Every kind of water sports, but also hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, hang gliding, horse riding and - and in winter - cross-country skiing, skiing, snowboard, walks with snowshoes. Even the offer for golfers is truly privileged! In Stresa, there are the well-known Golf Club Alpino (one of the oldest in Italy) and the beautiful Golf Club Des Iles Borromees with its panoramic 18 holes! In the vicinity, the Golf Club of Pian di Sole, Verbania, Agrate Conturbia, Bogogno, where you can practice in a pure and natural context of rare charm.
This was juast a quick view of activities and points of interest in Lago Maggiore, a land full of treasures to be discovered. For those who have few days to see the area, a good choice will certainly be Lago Maggiore Express, that will offer them an unforgettable journey by train and ship, starting from several places.
Anyway, if you travel by car, boat, ferry or bike, if you love hiking or just lying on the beach, if you’re searching for relax, adventure, or unforgettable moments with your partner, your family o your friends… your trip will be exciting and surprising. Have a good journey!