A private tour around Lake Orta and its mounts from Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore , Italy

A private tour around Lake Orta and its mounts from Lake Maggiore

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About this experience

Lake Orta is a small, quite unknown pearl, lying a few kilometers westwards of lake Maggiore. Its chief town, Orta San Giulio and the close by isle of San Giulio create a unique, charming "lounge" on the lake coastline. This private tour will lead you to discover the atmospheres, the fascinating alleys and the view points of these sites, connected by a short and pleasant boat cruise. Later, you will have the chance to enjoy an astonishing view of the lake from the heights of the Holy Mount of Orta, a magnificent sanctuary reachable through an ascending path dotted of gorgeous baroque chapels. The site is a UNESCO heritage and you will surely understand why.

Available options

A private tour around Lake Orta and its mounts from Lake Maggiore

What's included

Private transportation

Qualified private guide

Tickets for a public taxi-boat

Detailed itinerary

This small town, standing on the Western coast of Lake Maggiore in the so-called Borromea Gulf, is one of the most visited touristic sites of entire Piemonte. Its territory includes three of the four Borromean Islands: Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola Superiora, also named Isola dei Pescatori. The first recorded file about the town is dated 998, but even in the Roman age, the way leading from Milan to the Sempione pass ran by this site.

Also simply known as Orta, it is part of the club of the most charming villages in Italy. From the Medieval age to the 18th century, Orta was the chief town of an independent association of cities called "Comunità della Riviera", well defended by the natural configuration of the site.
The town centre is characterized by narrow alleys, mostly converging into the beautiful Piazza Motta, seat of the City Hall and overlooking the lake.

The isle is the only one in the lake of Orta and belongs to the municipality of Orta San Giulio.
Probably inhabited since the Iron age, the isle has been considered a strategic site since the 6th century and thus surrounded by defensive walls. After having been a stage for the rivalry between the Sacred Roman Empire and the Lombard kingdom in the 10th century, the whole lake district was ceased to the bishops of Novara, who reconstructed on the island the cathedral of San Giulio in a Romanesque style.
In 1841, the medieval castle was demolished to make room to a Seminary, designed by architect Ferdinando Caronesi.

This Sacred Mount is the only one, among the others standing in Lombardy and Piedmont, dedicated to a saint, Francis. It was built between the 16th and the 18th century, thus showing traces of Mannerism, Baroque and later other, less specific styles.
It is composed by twenty-one chapels, built along an ascending path, plus the church of San Francesco, a monumental door and a fountain. The church garden features an amazing look over the lake of Orta.

What's not included

Gratuities

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore is a picturesque lake in northern Italy, known for its stunning landscapes, elegant villas, and lush botanical gardens. It's a popular destination for outdoor activities, cultural exploration, and relaxation, offering a blend of Italian and Swiss influences.

Top Attractions

Isola Bella

A stunning island with a historic palace and beautifully landscaped gardens, known for its unique shape and elegant architecture.

Historical 2-3 hours €18-€22

Isola dei Pescatori

A charming fishing island with colorful houses, narrow streets, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free (ferry costs apply)

Villa Taranto

A beautiful botanical garden with a vast collection of plants from around the world, offering stunning views of the lake.

Nature 2-3 hours €12

Alpino-Caprone Cable Car

A scenic cable car ride up to the summit of Monte San Salvatore, offering breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Adventure 2-3 hours €15-€20 round trip

Santa Caterina del Sasso

A historic hermitage built into the cliffs above the lake, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and religious history.

Historical 1-2 hours €5

Must-Try Local Dishes

Risotto al pesce persico

A creamy risotto made with local perch, a specialty of the lake region.

Main Course Contains fish

Missoltino

Dried and salted fish, typically served with polenta, a traditional dish from the region.

Main Course Contains fish

Panettone

A sweet, fluffy bread with candied fruit and raisins, originally from Milan but popular throughout the region.

Dessert Contains eggs and dairy

Vin Brulé

A warm, spiced wine, perfect for cold winter evenings.

Drink Contains alcohol

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Skiing Sailing Water skiing Sunbathing Swimming Boat tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, clear skies, and plenty of outdoor activities. It's ideal for swimming, boating, and exploring the lake's attractions.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, German
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

CET (GMT+1), CST (GMT+2) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Lake Maggiore is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use reputable taxis and restaurants

Getting there

By air

Malpensa International Airport • 45 km from Arona (northern shore)
Aeroporto di Milano Linate • 80 km from Arona

By train

Arona Station, Laveno-Mombello Station

By bus

Arona, Laveno-Mombello

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are a convenient way to get around, with frequent services and affordable fares.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Stresa Arona Laveno-Mombello Pallanza

Day trips

Locarno

50 km • Full day

A charming Swiss town on the southern shore of Lake Maggiore, known for its historic center, beautiful gardens, and the famous Locarno Film Festival.

Macugnaga

60 km • Full day

A picturesque mountain village in the Val d'Ossola, known for its stunning views of the Monte Rosa massif and excellent hiking and skiing opportunities.

Cannobio

30 km • Half day

A charming town on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, known for its historic center, beautiful churches, and the famous Sunday market.