Take the train or drive from Milan to the town of Stresa, on the Lago Maggiore, and spend the day enjoying the scenery of the Alps and of course the lake itself. Hop on the boat to visit the islands: Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Madre.
The Isola dei Pescatori or Fisherman's island is indeed just that: an island of fishermen. When I was there guiding a hiking trip with Butterfield & Robinson we almost got stranded on this small island because it started raining and the ferries stopped running. We did find a nice fisherman to take us back, though. The photo above is the Isola Pescatori with the Alps in the background.
On nearby Isola Bella both the palace and grounds are open for visiting.
And here's a view of the gardens behind the palace on Isola Bella:
On a boat ride keep your eye out for some of the incredible villas along the shores of Lake Maggiore.
And More
- Take the Lago Maggiore Express, a journey with spectacular views, done by train and boat, that goes through the Centovalli (one hundred valleys).
- Relax on a sandy beach with views of the Alps (kid-friendly!)
- Drive up to the Swiss town of Locarno at the northern end of the lake, and take the lift up to Cimetta to enjoy the fabulous view (photo)
- I've done several half-day hikes around Stresa and Verbania, but for more strenuous or longer hikes, head north into Switzerland (Val Verzasca, Valle Maggia)
- take the 20 minute cable car ride up from Stresa to Mount Mottarone, at 1491 meters. Stop at Alpino partway up to visit the Botanical gardens.
- Visit the Villa Pallavicino and enjoy the villa and the flowers and animals (kid-friendly!)
Logistics
The Milan - Stresa roundtrip by train or car plus island-hopping can easily be done in a daytrip. Check the LeNord train timetables here. Best for trains from Milan, otherwise check trenitalia.it. Check the boat schedule at www.navigazionelaghi.it
Photos by Sanjay
Let Italy: Beyond the Obvious plan your trip to Italy: have a look at the sample itinerary or learn more.
