Join us for a spectacular Italian adventure, based in Baveno on Lake Maggiore, to discover the turquoise waters of this wonderful lake. This relaxing holiday takes you to discover the Borromean Islands, which have fascinated visitors for centuries, including the monumental Isola Bella, with its 17th-century Palazzo Borromeo, and the picturesque Isola dei Pescatori, or Fishermen’s Island. We also include visits to a local market and a tea plantation, in addition to exploring further afield into the Swiss area of Lake Maggiore, Lake Lugano and stunning Lake Como. This is the perfect way to unwind amidst amazing scenery!
9 days from £1,149pp £2,298 for 2 people Single Room Supplement from £379pp
Book NowLocal departure by coach or Home Connect service, then travel to northern France for an overnight stay.
Continue to Lake Maggiore and our hotel in Baveno for a six-night stay.
Today we cruise to the fabulous Borromean Islands, which lie at the centre of Lake Maggiore. They are fine examples of natural beauty, enhanced by landscaped gardens and parks. The islands take their name from the aristocratic Borromean family, who took ownership of the land in the 16th and 17th centuries. We visit Isola Bella, which was completely transformed by its occupants, and its palace and gardens (entrance included) are the epitome of luxury.
We also visit the charming Isola dei Pescatori, or Fishermen's Island, before journeying onwards to Stresa, Lake Maggiore's most popular resort!
Today we journey to the town of Arona, on the Piedmont shore of Lake Maggiore and in the province of Novara. Arona was the principal seat of the Borromeo family, which for centuries exerted a strong influence on the lake area.
It's market day, so we take the time to enjoy some free time at leisure to browse the stalls and relax on the lakefront promenade. We also visit the tea plantation at Premosello Chiovenda for a visit and to gain insight into the second largest plantation in Europe after the Azores and the largest in Italy. Though in the middle of an alpine valley, the plantation enjoys a special microclimate.
Enjoy a day at leisure to relax, explore Baveno at your own pace, or take a boat trip to another area of the lake.
Today’s included excursion will introduce you to the three of the great lakes: Como, Lugano and Maggiore.
Our route takes us along the western shore of Lake Maggiore towards Switzerland and to the lakeside city of Lugano. Explore the colourful piazzas, terrace cafés and flower-adorned lakeside promenades. We continue to one of Italy’s most famous lakes, Lake Como. The lake itself is 50km long and 1350 feet deep, making it one of the deepest lakes in Europe. We visit the resorts of Menaggio and Tremezzo, both popular holiday destinations.
Day at leisure or join our optional excursion to pretty Lake Orta, which is one of Italy’s smallest lakes. Spend time exploring the pretty village of Orta, with its quaint, narrow cobbled streets, rich history, aristocratic houses, courtyards and elaborate palaces. Or, join a short boat trip to the San Giulio Island, dominated by its Romanesque basilica.
with an extra experience
Travel to northern France for an overnight stay.
Return home.
You will stay for six nights at the 4-star Hotel Rosa in Baveno.
Overnight stays in northern France will be in city-style hotels.
Location: Via Monte Grappa, 29, 28831 Baveno,
With its wonderful position in the historical centre of the pretty town of Baveno, Hotel Rosa is located close by to Lake Maggiore & in the heart of the Piedmont Region. A buffet breakfast is available every morning at the property and the hotel restaurant serves European and Italian cuisine Free WiFi is featured throughout the property. Each room has a flat-screen TV. Rooms are fitted with a private bathroom. The hotel has a lounge/bar area and a panoramic terrace on the 4th floor. There is also a small spa area with spa that includes Turkish bath, shower, sauna and hydro-massage tub ( extra charge payable locally).Need further information? Fill in our enquiry form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can
Single Room Supplement from £379.00