Lago di Como & Lago Maggiore

By boat to Bellagio, the ‘Pearl of the Lario’, one of the most beautiful places on earth according to composer Gabriel Fauré. You walk to the picturesque village of Pescallo and cross the park of Villa Giolia. On the way back, you have the opportunity to visit the beautiful gardens of Villa Melzi, both of which were rented by Stendhal.

Boat transfer to Bellano on the eastern shore of Lago di Como. Today is a lovely walk above the lake to Varenna, an idyllic, colourful village. A gentle ascent, past the ‘Orrido di Bellano’ and natural gorges, leads through the village of Gittana and the 12th century Vézio Castle. In Varenna, you should definitely visit the gardens of Villa Monastero. The villa is surrounded by a botanical garden with rhododendrons, wisteria, magnolias and citrus trees. Take the boat back to Lenno.

From Lenno, your hike takes you through the hills of the Azalea Riviera and offers breathtaking panoramas of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Along the way you can experience the fantastic contrasts between the olive groves and the immaculate gardens of the sophisticated villas, the medieval villages and impressive Renaissance churches. Transfer to Lake Maggiore to the charming little town of Cannero or Cannobio on the lake shore.

Your hike begins in the small village of Cannero. From there, you follow an old mule track to the medieval village of Carmine Superiore, with magnificent views of Lago Maggiore and the opportunity to visit the church of San Gottardo. The panoramic trail then continues through the villages of Molineggi and Solivo to Cannobio.

Transfer to Stresa and then boat transfer to the Borromean Islands. Today you can explore three of the five islands on foot: Isola Bella with its magnificent 17th century palace, Isola Madre with its famous palaces and botanical gardens, and finally Isola dei Pescatori, which enchants with its charming fishing village, narrow alleyways and lovely restaurants. By boat back to Stresa.

The panoramic path from Stresa to Belgirate offers fantastic views of the lake and runs along an old Roman path lined with historic chapels. The enchanting village of Belgirate will delight you with its traditional houses and flowering gardens. Return to Stresa by boat or train (not included).