ITALY
UPDATED TOUR
6 DAYS
Monastery on San Giulio, Lake Orta
Majestic Maggiore & Mountain Railways Peaceful and serene, Lake Maggiore straddles both Italy and Switzerland, and basks elegantly against the snowy backdrop of the Swiss Alps. Ideally positioned in the beautiful lakeside resort of Stresa, our excellent choice of hotels make a great base for touring this stunning region. Experience a blend of the highlights on offer, including a visit to delightful Lake Orta, a day in elegant Lake Lugano and Lake Como, plus wonderful rail and boat journeys offering unforgettable lake vistas! SUGGESTED ITINERARY Day 1 Arrival We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner. Day 2 Borromean Islands Driver’s Day Off We enjoy a leisurely day visiting the stunning Borromean Islands, located just offshore from the centre of Stresa. We can take the boat out to Isola Bella, which houses a beautiful stately home and elegant Italianate gardens, before we continue by boat to Isola dei Pescatori (Fishermen’s Island), the only island which is currently inhabited. Day 3 Lake Orta Today we explore Lake Orta and one of northern Italy’s best kept secrets, its capital, Orta San Giulio, which has a delightful medieval centre full of cobbled streets, galleries, local crafts and cafés. For anyone wishing to do so, a boat trip could be taken over to Isola San Giulio to visit the picturesque monastery. Day 4 Lake Maggiore Express Today we enjoy a wonderful full day excursion with a scenic journey on the magical Lake Maggiore Express by rail and boat, taking in the full beauty of this spectacular region along the way. We start with a rail journey from Stresa to Domodossola, at which point we change onto the scenic high level railway, the Centovalli, which takes us through the mountains and down to Locarno, a bustling town on the Swiss shores of Lake Maggiore. After enjoying the fabulous views en route, we have time to relax before taking a boat ride from this Swiss corner of Lake Maggiore back down to Stresa. (Please note, Lake Maggiore Express days of operation vary throughout the season and it usually closes around 12th October.) Day 5 Macugnaga Today we enjoy a leisurely day out, getting closer to the glorious mountains we see all around us, as we head to the delightful Alpine village of Macugnaga. A lovely scenic drive beckons as we leave the lake behind us and wind our way to the foot of Europe’s second highest mountain, Monte Rosa to arrive at our pretty destination. Known for its winter sports, Macugnaga has authentic charm by the bucket load with its narrow streets, choice of eateries and views, as well as a few museums for the curious. Fresh Alpine air, mountain scenery and traditional Italian allure combine to make this the perfect relaxing day to complete our holiday. Day 6 Departure After breakfast, we begin our journey home.
Centovalli Railway
Isola Bella, Lake Maggiore
Hotel Astoria Stresa, Lake Maggiore
This welcoming 4 star hotel is efficiently run and managed by the Mariani family. Its excellent location is directly on the promenade just a few minutes’ stroll from the lovely centre of Stresa. Comfortably furnished with spacious public areas, the main restaurant is attractive and overlooks the lake and its islands. Facilities include a pleasant bar, an outdoor swimming pool and beautiful gardens, while all 100 bedrooms include a TV and hairdryer. • Lift • Bar • Restaurant • Leisure facilities • Coach parking is on-site & free of charge
Inclusions • Return short sea crossing • Porterage & welcome glass of spumante • Set menu on arrival night • Choice of starter & main on 4 nights • Tea/coffee after dinner
5 Nights Half Board Based on Sunday arrivals
Hotel Milan Speranza au Lac Stresa, Lake Maggiore Plus
Long Standing Partner
Located on the edge of Stresa’s historic centre with its shops and bars and just a stone’s throw from the lakefront and boat stop, the 4 star Milan Speranza au Lac is a charming, traditional hotel with a wonderful ambience. The 163 bedrooms vary in size due to the historic nature of the building and all are equipped with a TV and hairdryer. The elegant restaurant serves very good cuisine with friendly and professional service and there is a lovely bar on the first floor where customers can enjoy an evening drink. • Lift • Bar • Restaurant • Coach parking is off-site & chargeable
Inclusions • Return short sea crossing • Porterage • Choice of menu • Tea/coffee after dinner
Paul says… “The aristocrat of the Italian lakes, Maggiore is so elegant with its gorgeous villas and gardens. Stresa is, without doubt, the jewel of the lake; its stunning lakeside promenade overlooking the beautiful Borromeo islands and charismatic historic centre provides a perfect base.”
5 Nights Half Board Based on Sunday arrivals
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Albatross Approved Rating: ✓ Visited ✓ Inspected ✓ Graded
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