A week of delights, the seven best things to do and see around La Darbia.
I was asked recently what are the best destinations around our Lake d 'Orta, such as the most suggestive itineraries, the most interesting places and the activities not to be missed. Believe me, art, good food, nature, landscape, sport, there is an embarrassing amount to choose from!
Here is a list of my favourites:
- The island of San Giulio
- The medieval village of Orta
- The Sacro Monte dedicated to Saint Francis
- The sanctuary of the Madonna del Sasso
- Stresa with the Borromean islands
- Mount Mottarone
- The gardens of Villa Taranto
The island of San Giulio and the ancient village of Orta
One of the most beautiful places in the world, an enchanted island that emerges from the water with its wonderful Benedictine monastery. Medieval legends surround this magical place, the mystical symbol of the whole lake.
Orta San Giulio
Right in front of the island, the village of Orta is destined to capture the visitor with narrow streets, palaces, churches and alleys that glide towards the lake. A romantic aperitif in the small square, not to be missed!
The Sacred Mount of Orta
Built in the 16th century and dedicated to Saint Francis, the Sacro Monte dominates Orta and offers a breathtaking view. I suggest a walk when the lights of the sunset make the lake sparkle, while the ringing of bells fills the sky.
The Madonna del Sasso
A true balcony overlooking the Cusio, the imposing sanctuary of the Madonna del Sasso built on a granite spur, dominates the western shore of the lake. Sometimes it appears dazzling, kissed by the morning sun, or it emerges wrapped in the lake fog, it always evokes a fairytale scenario.
Stresa and the Borromean Islands
Stresa is the true pearl of Lake Maggiore, with its elegant liberty style hotels and the three Borromean islands that emerge from the water and offer enchanted views. It is no coincidence that great artists of a not too distant past (from Hemingway to Flaubert, from Lord Byron to Stendhal) have linked their name to these places so full of charm.
Mount Mottarone
Mottarone is synonymous with relaxing walks along broom-bordered paths, alpine huts where you can taste polenta, winter skiing along snow-covered slopes. The funniest attraction? The Alpyland amusement park with its rail bobsleigh track.
The gardens of Villa Taranto
Everyone should give up a couple of hours visiting the famous gardens of Villa Taranto, overlooking Lake Maggiore, especially in spring when the park offers an incredible spectacle with thousands of flower beds and a blaze of colourful tulips.
Before saying goodbye, I would also like to remind everyone of the many fun activities that our lake offers, from SUP to canoeing, from boats to daring dives (have you ever tried the great high dive board at Gozzano?) And again: the acrobatic courses at the Adventure Park and bicycle rides (maybe electric ...) through woods and paths.
Maybe, maybe a week is not enough...
