Discover walking in Lake Maggiore
Italy’s second largest lake, which stretches north from Lombardy and up into Switzerland. It lies, sheltered, on the south side of the Alps, making for a mild climate and consequent lush vegetation, with Mediterranean and exotic flora, including azaleas, rhododendrons, and camellias. Maggiore is, in our view, much more scenic than, for example, the much larger Lake Garda to the East.
Holiday Highlights
- Seven nights half board in Stresa
- Three guided walks
- Local knowledgeable walking guides
- Flights included from your local airport
- Transfers included
Itinerary
DAY ONE – Arrival Day
On arrival in Italy, you will be met and transferred to the Hotel Milan Speranza Au Lac, Stresa, for 7 nights half-board accommodation.
DAY TWO – Walk 1
2.5 MILES – 150M ASCENT/DESCENT Take the train up the lake to the station of Fondotoce before ascending 150m to the little hamlet of Montorfano, which has stunning views over Lake Maggiore. You continue down a gently sloping path to Mergozzo, a small village on the shores of its own little lake. There is time to explore this typical village and have lunch. You catch the train back. A gentle walk, approx 2 hours, 150m climb and descent.
DAY THREE – Free Day in Resort
Free day in resort or you can join an optional excursion to the magnificent Borromean Islands.
DAY FOUR – Walk 2
5 MILES – 265M ASCENT/DESCENT Across the bay lies Suna, the most evocative part of Verbania. You travel there by local bus and begin your walk through the clustered medieval village houses, linked by seemingly random arched passageways. You then follow a mule track past orchards, fine old villas, a 14th century tower and a chapel, from where there are lovely views out over the lake towards the Borromean islands and the Alps beyond. Passing through a chestnut grove, you reach the hamlet of Cavandone, the ‘Village of Stone Carvings’, returning to Suna by a different route. 5 miles, 265m of ascent/descent. Lunch today: please take a packed lunch or supplies to eat in Cavandone. It may be possible to eat at the Circolo in Cavandone but the walking guide will advise in good time before the walk.
DAY FIVE – Free Day In Resort
Free day in resort or you can join an optional excursion to Lake Orta.
DAY SIX – Walk 3
5 MILES – 260M ASCENT/DESCENT You catch the bus to Belgirate, and follow a route through the woods above the lake, climbing towards the villages of Falchetti and Passera before descending into Stresa. 5 miles, 260m of ascent/descent. You may wish to bring a snack, but you will be able to buy lunch in Stresa.
DAY SEVEN – Free day in resort
Free day in resort.
DAY EIGHT – Departure Day
Free time until you depart for the airport for your flight home.
Accommodation
This four-star hotel is in two adjacent buildings in the centre of Stresa, overlooking the lake and opposite the boat station. The Speranza has a pleasant street-front café while the Milan houses the hotel restaurant. Guests have use of the swimming pool at the nearby Hotel Regina Palace.
Hotel Features
Dates & Prices
No available dates at this time. Please try again later.
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