THE BEST ACTIVITIES TO EXPERIENCE AT LAGO MAGGIORE

There is plethora of activities that await at the Lago Maggiore: Whether it's swimming, kayaking, Stand up paddleboarding, or leisurely boat rides on the lake; to exhilarating mountain biking trails; scenic hikes in the surrounding mountains or the pristine natural sanctuary of Val Grande; and exploring the enchanting villages dotting the landscape. Or indulging in the local cuisine. Lago Maggiore has something to offer for everyone.

All of our properties have the Lago right at their feet, so to speak. It is just 70 meters to the jetty, and a little further south, there is a small beach, which is also within easy walking distance.

Lago Maggiore is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is warm, and most outdoor activities are in full swing.

We have also created a list on google that you can save and come back to it later. We are always adding news things to the list. Google List

1. Exploring the Lake

Boat Tours: Take a boat tour to explore the lake's picturesque islands, such as Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori. Each island offers unique attractions, from botanical gardens to historic palaces.
Water Sports: Try your hand at various water sports available at the lake, including sailing, windsurfing, and jet skiing.

2. Hiking and Nature Trails

Val Grande National Park: Known as Italy's largest wilderness area, Val Grande offers numerous hiking trails for all levels. Enjoy the unspoiled nature and stunning views.
Mottarone Mountain: For breathtaking panoramic views of the Alps and seven lakes, hike or take the cable car to the summit of Mottarone Mountain. 1,492m mountain with amazing views of the Lago Maggiore. There is a ski resort and cablecar that is open during the colder months.
Cappella Fina: Discover the beauty of the mountains with these scenic hiking trails from a convenient parking spot. The trails offer a variety of experiences, catering to every level of hiker There is a hiking trial map available with viewpoints, though the length for the hikes can be a little optimistic, allow yourself an additional 15 to 30 mins for breaks, snacks and photo taking.
Sacro Monte of SS. Trinity of Ghiffa: A beautiful monastery with views of the lake. There are a few nice hikes around there. There is also a nice out door restaurant where you can sit under beautiful old trees. Good spot to cool off on a hot summer day.
Valle Verzasca in Switzerland: A breathtaking Valley only a few kilometers away from the Border with amazing rock formations by the river.
Toce Waterfall: Impressive waterfall in the mountains by Domodossola.
Lake Maggiore Zipline: A minute and a half of pure fun, 350 metres above the ground, while staring at Lake Maggiore and travelling at speeds of up to 120 km/h on an 1850-meter steel cable as you fly down this enormous ZIP line. Reserve your spot online.

3. Visiting Local Villages

Stresa: This charming town is known for its elegant villas and beautiful gardens. Don’t miss the Borromean Islands accessible from here. Stresa is known for its impressive Grand Hotels along the lake. Small village with shops and restaurants.
Verbania: Located on the western shore of Lago Maggiore, Verbania is known for its botanical gardens and historical landmarks.
Cannobio: This medieval town on the northern tip of Lago Maggiore boasts a charming old town with narrow streets and colorful houses.
Ascona (Switzerland): Across the border in Switzerland, Ascona is a sophisticated resort town with a Mediterranean flair. It features a beautiful lakeside promenade, art galleries, and lively cafes.
Luino: On the eastern shore of Lago Maggiore, Luino hosts one of the largest weekly markets in the region, held every Wednesday on the lakefront, offering a variety of goods from clothing to local delicacies.
Locarno (Switzerland): Another Swiss gem, Locarno is famous for its annual international film festival and its charming Old Town with historic buildings and lively squares.
Arona: Nestled on the shores of Lake Maggiore, is a charming town known for its picturesque waterfront, historical landmarks, and vibrant atmosphere.

4. Markets on Lago Maggiore

The weekly markets held in the lakeside villages on the Italian shore of Lake Maggiore are easily accessible by boat from either Verbania-Intra or Ascona: in Luino on Wednesdays, in Verbania-Intra on Saturdays and in Cannobio on Sundays and may more along the lake.

Stresa: Markets are held every Friday in the town center. From June to August
Verbania-Intra: Markets are held every Saturday from 8:00 to 17:00 which lasts all day.
Cannobio: Markets are held every Sunday from 8:00 to 14:00, offering local crafts, fresh produce, and antiques.
Ascona (Switzerland): The Ascona Market takes place all day on every Tuesday from April 2024 to October 2024 along the lake promenade of Ascona.
Luino: On the eastern shore of Lago Maggiore, Luino hosts one of the largest weekly markets in the region, held every Wednesday from 8:30 to 17:00 on the lakefront, offering a variety of goods from clothing to local delicacies. Here is the link to the ferry schedule.
Locarno (Switzerland): Another Swiss gem, Locarno is famous for its annual international film festival and its charming Old Town with historic buildings and lively squares.
Arona: Market days are Tuesday and Saturday in the town center.

5. Cultural Experiences

Borromeo Palace and Gardens: Located on Isola Bella, this opulent palace is a must-visit for its stunning architecture and gardens.
Rocca di Angera: A medieval castle with a museum showcasing doll and toy history, along with spectacular views of the lake.
Museo della Bambola e del Giocattolo: The largest in Europe with an extraordinary collection consisting of three hundred rare pieces. "If the tourist wants to continue along the road, he can get to enjoy a nice view of the castle.
Kunpen Lama Gangchen: Huge Buddhist temple that over looks the lake. There are a few hikes around the temple. They offer meditation classes and have a cafe where you can sit on the terrace and relax.
Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens: A beautiful botanical garden featuring a vast collection of plants from around the world. There is a small café in the middle where you can relax, enjoy coffee and admire the beautiful garden. Please note that the garden closes its gates during the winter months, typically reopening from March 15th to November 3rd. Please check opening hours. During the peak season, the garden welcomes visitors from 9:00 to 19:00, with the last entry permitted at 18:00.
Santa Caterina del Sasso: A beautiful old monastery build into the mountain foundet in 1170. It can be reached by elevator.
Isola Bella: Spectacular Palazzo with botanical garden. Can be reached by ferry.
Museo del Paesaggio: A charming gallery with famous sculptures from local artist and beautiful paintings of local scenes. There is a charming courtyard cafe which makes this a fabulous place to visit.
Villa Panza: A bit further out but worth the drive down. Beautiful old Palazzo that was turned into a museum. Featuring many American artists. James Turrell
LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura: Contemporary-art & culture museum in a modern building with a concert hall & panoramic lake views.

6. Culinary restaurants

Risto Bar Hemingway Oggebbio by Casa e Vela: Bar/Restaurant where you can sit by the water and enjoy the beautiful views of the lake. They serve breakfast from 8AM to 10AM. They also rent out boats and lounge chairs. It's with in 7 minute walking distance from the apartment.
Soleluna Beach: Perched on the beachfront, this cozy café/bar offers breakfast, lunch, and afternoon aperitifs. Enjoy meals with a view, from morning bites to seaside lunches. As the day winds down, sip on cocktails while soaking up the sunset. This a 5 mins drive or 25 min walk from the apartment
Ristorante Usignolo: Great food. Higher up in the mountains with amazing views overlooking the lake. Reservations are recommended.
Villa Bianca Ristornte Pizzeria: A great place for lunch! Good food, fair prices, and with lake view. They have the best panna cotta in town!
Hosteria Del Pesce: A nice seafood restaurant, where you can dine outside. Enjoy the fresh breeze as you indulge in delectable dishes from the sea.
Dalì - Risorante Pizzeria Lounge Bar: Located in the heart of Verbania. This once old ferry station, now a bar/cafe is a spot to grab a drink and enjoy the beautiful view of the lake.
Il Cavallo Beach: Nice local bistro where you can sit next to the water under some shade. Perfect for a hot summer evening. Bring bug spray.
Ristorante La Trinità: A relaxing place for regional cuisine where you can sit under 200 year old trees and hear the birds sing. Also a great place to grab a drink after a walk.
Laura&Paul Restaurante Café: Italian food with a modern twist, that over looks the piazza. They occasionally have a live band playing.
Ristorante La Latteria: Experience the best of both worlds with this blend of classic and innovative Italian cuisine, nestled in a charming square at the heart of Intra. If you're a fan of liquorice flavour liqueur I would recommend getting a shot of Liquirizia. 😋
La Cesera: A fantastic cheese shop is situated in the heart of Intra, offering the finest cheeses and charcuterie from across Italy. Whether you choose to dine on the main square or explore the shop, it promises a special culinary experience.
Arena Beach Verbania: Nice bar right by the beach. A great place to grab a drink and look at the beautiful lake. They are also serve breakfast.
Pizzeria Lago: In the summer every thursday they have a live music.
Trattoria La Canfora: Very nice seafood restaurant overlooking the lake.
Gatto Nero Pizza: Just a 5-minute walk from the apartment, there's a charming little pizza place that's perfect for a casual outing. It's a great spot to grab a delicious pizza, sip on a cold beer, and unwind. They open at 9:30, so you can also start your day with a nice coffee.
Salumeria Gastronomia Di Bui Andrea: An excellent shop, which has been been passed down for generations with an excellent selection of typical Italian products. Andrea and his wife will make you taste delicious dishes and sample excellent wines. Seating is limited, but there's also the option to take out and do a picnic by the lake.
L'alchimista: One of the best pizzerias in the area. The pizza is unsurpassed and the raw materials are of the highest quality.
Trattoria Concordia: Antipasti, pizzas & seafood, including lake fish, in a casual, traditional trattoria with a patio.
Osteria del Castello: Grilled meats, cold cuts & pasta, plus Italian wines, at a cozy dining room with a covered terrace.
Fiore di Latte Pizzeria:
La Bottega dei Messapi: A really great place to get fresh seafood.
Speedy Pizza&Food: A family owned business where they make everything with love. In my opinion they make the best Bolognese.

7. Cafes and Sweets

Kaos Cafè: Located in the center of Oggebbio and about a 5 min drive or a 25 minute walk from the Apartment. This is a local coffee spot, where you can get some croissants and good coffee. They have a large patio where you can sit outside.
Pasticceria Castello Snc: A cute little pastries shop located in Cannobio. In my opinion they have the most delicious limoncello cookies 😋
Caffe delle Rose - Garden Cafe: A very nice restaurant/cafe with a beautiful garden.
Gelato d'altri tempi: Tucked away in a small alley you find this incredible homemade ice cream shop in intra.
Forno Zaccheo: Located in the heart of Cannobio, this café is a haven for pastry lovers. Indulge in a delightful array of scrumptious pastries amidst the vibrant atmosphere of this charming town.
Casa Del Dolce: If you're in search of a charming pastry shop, look no further! This adorable spot not only offers delicious treats but also boasts irresistibly cute packaging. Located in the old town of Verbania, it's the perfect place to pick up a cake for any special occasion.

8. Practical Tips

Transportation: Renting a car is recommended for exploring the region at your own pace. Alternatively, ferries and trains provide good connectivity between towns.
Markets: A large super market, where you can find a lot of italian products. Esselunga di Verbania, Lidl, Eurospin, Carrefour and a small local market La Bottega Onelli Daniela.
Packing: Bring comfortable hiking shoes, swimwear, and a light jacket for cooler evenings.

9. For kids

La Curva di Vignone: Great place for families as they have a big pool and an outdoor playground.
Grotto Carza: Up in the Mountains. A restaurant right next to a zip-line park for kids of all ages.
Alpyland: Once you've gotten atop Mottarone (by the Funivia or by car - very windy roads but scenic), Alpyland is a 1,200-meter rail track with a 360-degree view of the surrounding lakes and the Alps. Open both in summer and winter, Alpyland is fun for everyone, at any age! Treat yourself and your kids (ages 4+) to a bobsled roller coaster ride at Alpyland.
Villa Pallavicino: Botanical garden with a petting zoo
Splashe Spa Tamaro: Swimming center with several slides, wave pool & terrace in mountain setting, plus a stylish spa.
Gottard Park: An outdoor museum showing old planes and train. A great park for kids.

10. Day trips to Milano

For a day trip to Milano, there are a few ways to get there. Best option would be to take a train as parking in Milano is very expensive.
You can either take the train from Verbania-Pallanza that takes you to the central station and you can walk around from there or the second option would be to take the ferry from Intra to Laveno and take the train from there to Milano Cadorna which is close to the Dome and from there you can explore downtown Milano.

We have also created a list on google that you can save and come back to it later. We are always adding news things to the list.

By following these tips and exploring the activities and sights mentioned, you'll make the most of your visit to Lago Maggiore. Enjoy your stay and create unforgettable memories in this beautiful Italian lake region.

Activities