Lake Maggiore
Italy
Botanical beauty in this most elegant of Italian lakes
Peaceful and serene, Lake Maggiore straddles both Italy and Switzerland, and basks elegantly against the snowy backdrop of the Swiss Alps. The lakeside town of Stresa is defined by exotic greenery and a genteel atmosphere, and its tree-lined piazzas and decadent buildings make it the perfect base from which to explore Lake Maggiore. Surfacing from the crystalline blue waters, the Borromean Islands are the jewels of the lake. This archipelago of tiny islets harbours a paradise of glorious gardens and exquisite villas, and has been a seductively tranquil retreat for centuries.
LAKE MAGGIORE
Island havens and dignified beauty
- Stresa – relax in a classic hotel in this elegant lake town
- Borromean Islands – discover the graceful Borromeo Palace and enjoy the beauty of these small islands
- Lake Maggiore Express – take a picturesque journey through Italy, and into Switzerland
- Lake Como – visit this most beautiful of Italian lakes
- Return flights included
- 7 nights half board accommodation
From £1,279 per person
based on two sharing in a twin/double room, with a minimum of 35 passengers travelling in a specific month
Best time to go
April, May, June, September, October
Suggested Hotel
Hotel Milan Speranza, Stresa
- Historic building dating back to 1859
- In the centre of Stresa, close to shops and with views of the lake, town and mountains
- Courteous and hospitable service
- Classic & elegant bedrooms
- Has its own restaurant
Not the hotel for your group? Other hotels are available, contact us.
Hotel Photos
Attractions:
The Borromean Islands
The sparkling Borromean Islands are immersed near the western shores of Lake Maggiore, and are considered one of the most picturesque parts of the lake. The three main islands – Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola Superiore – have been shaped by centuries of aristocracy and shelter ambitious architecture, stunning landscaping and lush botanical gardens. The exquisite Borromeo Palace is surrounded by stunning terraces where you can immerse yourself in grandeur. Superiore is also known as ‘Isola dei Pescatori’ for its fishing community, which has retained a traditional way of life unchanged over generations.
Lake Maggiore Express
This most picturesque of rail journeys will offer unforgettable vistas of the elegant Lake Maggiore. From the lovely town of Stresa, the train follows the path of the River Fiume Toce to the Piedmontese town of Domodosola, known for its fine medieval centre. From Domodosola, the charming Centovalli (Hundred Valleys) train takes you to the sunny Swiss town of Locarno, and from here you’ll return to Stresa by coach.
Stresa
Stresa is an elegant resort town on the shores of Lake Maggiore. With cobbled streets, an air of decadence and a lovely lakeside promenade, it's no wonder it has been a favourite of artists and writers since the 1800s.
Lake Como
Famed the world over for its exquisite beauty, the jaw-dropping Lake Como is hemmed by forested hills and snow-tipped Alpine peaks. The lake’s shore is studded with achingly pretty towns and villages, home to old fishermen’s cottages and tiny lanes. Explore the typical lakeside village of Varenna, where it feels as if time stands still, before taking to the gentle turquoise waters on a boat trip to Bellagio. Bellagio is known as the ‘pearl of Lake Como’, with its elegant churches, gardens and historic character.
Alternatives
Other excursion ideas...
include Milan, Lake Orta and Villa Cicogna Mozzoni, as well as Lake Lugano in neighbouring Switzerland
Special interest groups
This area is ideal for horticultural groups, and is also packed with historic houses & palaces.
Want to explore further?
This tour also works well as a twin-centre with Lake Como or Lake Garda.
Got a question?
Need some advice?
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Call:
01225 764205
Email:
enquiries@successtours.com
24hr On Tour Assistance Number:
07957 838280