Language
Currency
From Garda to Orta, northern Italy is criss-crossed by a series of beautiful lakes. Elegant seaside resorts, sumptuous villas and lush gardens are all surrounded by a unique natural setting.
Whichever Italian lake you choose for your holiday, don't miss our selection of must-sees.
Located opposite the town of Stresa on Lake Maggiore, Isola Bella, one of the jewels of the Borromean Islands, is dominated by the sumptuous eighteenth-century Palazzo Borromeo.
A trip to the island includes a shell-encrusted grotto and beautifully landscaped gardens with white peacocks strutting along the flowered paths and terraces. Don't miss the panoramic view of the lake from the highest terrace.
With its beautiful hotels, 19th century waterfront villas and ornate landscaped gardens, Stresa, located on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, is one of the region's most attractive places to stay. After exploring the old town with its cobbled streets and small squares, take the cable car up to Monte Mottarone and enjoy a magnificent view of Lake Maggiore and the snow-capped peaks.
Head to one of Stresa's beaches where you can relax in the free public areas or rent a deckchair.
Look for a piece of Scotland in Italy? Head for Verbania! The botanical gardens of Villa Taranto were created in 1930 by a Scottish captain, Neil McEacharn, to remind him of his native land. Many plants were imported from the UK, joining floral wonders such as a dahlia maze and terraces carved with rhododendrons and azaleas. You can listen to the gentle murmur of water from the waterfalls and fountains, and don't miss the small mausoleum chapel, the captain's resting place.
Supremely romantic, Bellagio stands proudly on a small promontory in the centre of Lake Como. The town is full of majestic lakeside villas, including Villa Melzi with its stunning gardens. Meander through the cobbled streets to the centre of the village and admire the 12th-century Basilica of San Giacomo. Continue on foot from the town hall to the fishing village of Pescallo, a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts.
For a quiet swim in this beautiful setting, choose the Lido di Bellagio.
In an area known for its opulent villas, Villa Carlotta stands out for its sheer beauty. Situated on Lake Como in the town of Tremezzo, this grand 17th-century villa houses a fine collection of period furniture, paintings and sculptures, as well as a set of beautiful landscaped gardens, which are particularly attractive in spring. Stroll along the paths and flower-filled belvederes to enjoy a delightful view of the lake.
The small island of San Giulia on Lake Orta is a veritable haven of peace. There is only one cobbled street and one restaurant, and this sense of peace is enhanced by the Benedictine monastery in the centre of the island. Enjoy the view of the sparkling lake and the wooded mountains as you walk around.
This is the largest lake island in Europe, and with the exception of the public bus and the residents' two wheelers, motorised transport is totally forbidden. Instead, you can hire a bike or put on your hiking boots and explore the mountain trails through the 11 hamlets which pepper the island. The easiest to reach is the village of Peschiera Maraglio, where you can watch fishermen mending their nets while you relax at a waterside café.
Set on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, Malcesine offers beautiful walks along its narrow cobblestone streets, ideally with an ice cream in hand. It is also an excellent starting point for boat trips around the lake. In the town you can see the Castello Scagliero di Malcesine, a medieval castle that houses a natural history museum, as well as wonderful views of Lake Garda. The cable car takes you up to Monte Baldo and offers a view stretching all the way to the mountains.
Windswept Riva del Garda is a favourite spot for windsurfers, thanks to strong winds sweeping in from the open sea. Nestled on the northern shores of Lake Garda, this charming town is the Mediterranean in northern Italy, with olive, lemon and palm trees framing its colourful Baroque architecture. Culture lovers can visit the Civic Museum, which is housed in the impressive 12th-century Rocca di Riva castle and features a range of exhibitions that blend art and archaeology.
Looking out over the gulf, dominated by the hills of Monte San Bartolomeo, Salò is not as touristy as some of the other spots in this region. However, the town has a major historic centre, including a 15th-century cathedral and the 16th-century Palazzo della Magnifica Patria. The waterfront promenade loops around the gulf, which makes it an extremely pleasant place for a lakeside walk. If you want to stop for a swim, set up a deckchair on the rocks of Mokai beach at the southern end of the town.
