Italian Lakes & Mountains
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About the Italian Lakes
Think of daytimes exploring the shores of these beautiful lakes or the soaring mountain peaks that surround them followed by decadent evenings in stunning (often Michelin starred) restaurants – there really is nothing that compares with a holiday to the Italian Lakes. Castles and Italianate gardens sit on their own private islands, there is the fragrance of lemon trees and bougainvillea in the air, and pastel coloured buildings tumble down almost right to the lakeshore. Natural beauty is omnipresent, elegant charm abounds in the historic lakeside towns and villages that lie below the majesty of the mountain peaks that surround them.
Some lakes are surrounded by luxurious hotels and the private homes of the rich and famous or the European aristocracy while others are much simpler offering narrow shingle strips that are perfect to relax between refreshing swims in the crystal clear waters. Ferries criss-cross the lakes and are a great way of exploring.
The eastern-most of the big three is Lake Maggiore. Holidays here are full of opulence – luxury yachts fill the marinas, peacocks strut in the parks and baroque buildings line the streets. Against the silhouette of the famous Matterhorn, Lake Maggiore is beautiful. The jewel in the crown is the breathtaking Borromean island of Isola Bella. Thousands of tulips bloom each spring at Verbania (the garden on the lake). Locarno on the western shores has a bucket-lift for 2 that whisks passengers to the summit of Monte Sasso del Ferro. Lake Maggiore still has echoes of days gone by, where opulent luxury merges with unrivalled beauty.
Undiscovered Lake Orta is an authentic gem set between the green of the Alps and Piedmontese woods, the small peaceful cousin of the majestic Lake Maggiore. The shores of the lake are dotted with small, picturesque villages, ancient villages and harbours that document the life of fishermen, once the most numerous inhabitants of Lake Orta. Lake Orta is an ideal destination for families, couples looking for a romantic place to relax, sports lovers, or guests young and old who love nature and the outdoors.
The central of the 3 largest lakes across northern Italy is Lake Como. Today, ancient frescoes remain preserved, gardens are manicured to perfection and life is a Mediterranean dream of fresh food. Lake Como has long been a playground for the Milanese high-fliers – classic Italian sports cars drive along the lakeside roads between the peachy coloured towns, Michelin-starred restaurants fill fairytale courtyards or cobbled streets. Luxury cruisers and yachts of the rich and famous mingle with the ferries used by locals and tourists alike. With all the above, there is also a rustic charm – traditional Italian gelato and simpler food is served in family-run Trattoria.
Visitors here can discover the 16th Century palazzos, perpendicular gardens and awe-inspiring scenery around the lake from the funicular that rises to the summit of Mount Brunate. Alternatively, mingle with the jet-set in Bellagio or shop for authentic cashmere in Falconeri. From east to west or north to south, Como demonstrates extravagant Italian style.
Lake Iseo, nestled between Lake Garda and Lake Como, offers a serene, natural beauty that remains untouched by crowds. Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Alps, this tranquil destination is home to some of Italy’s most charming villages. The lake's capital, Iseo, is a picturesque town centred around a scenic harbour. A highlight of the area is Monte Isola, Europe’s largest inhabited lake island, ideal for cycling. Famous for its wine heritage, Lake Iseo is home to the renowned Franciacorta DOCG sparkling wine, with numerous vineyards to explore. Just 25 minutes away, the medieval city of Brescia awaits, while Lake Garda is under an hour’s drive.
For adventures and holidays in truly stunning setting, look no further than Lake Garda. This majestic lake is surrounded by rugged mountain vistas and lined by idyllic waterfront towns and lush vineyards. Towards the northern end of the lake a huge variety of exhilarating sports are on offer – from cycling and hiking to sailing and windsurfing. Further south, the pace of life slows down and it’s about taking things easy hopping on and off the ferries that criss-cross the lake to explore the beautiful villages and sample the local food and wines. Each of the lakeside villages has its own charm. Gardone Riviera oozes elegance reminiscent of the Grand Tour, Limone is more laid back and Peschiera offers plenty of sights along with the family fun spot of Gardaland being within easy access. Don’t forget to try out the rotating cable car from Malcesine to the top of Mount Baldo or indulge in the famous spas of Sirmione.
For the Lake Como and Maggiore, Milan is the ideal entry point. For Lake Garda, Verona or Venice are the simplest international entry airports. All the lakes can be easily combined with each other or with one of the beautiful cities of the region including Milan, Bergamo, Verona or Venice – or even further afield with the majesty of Rome, the food of Bologna or the architecture, art and history of Florence.