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10 Luglio 2019
An escape from the city at Orta Lake and Maggiore Lake
An idea for an alternative, affordable, out-of-town holiday, away from mainstream tourism
Aurora Bolandin (translation by Lorenzo Bijno)
Maggiore Lake
Orta Lake and Maggiore Lake are not as popular with holidaymakers as other lakes, especially during the spring, but they do offer mild climate, peace and good food. Let’s discover this hidden corner of Piedmont, which is about an hour and a half’s drive from Turin.
TAKE A LAKESIDE WALK ON A SATURDAY AND ENJOY THE VIEW
Leave the car, put on a pair of comfortable shoes, spread a little sunscreen on your skin and discover Orta Lake. Upon entering the promenade surrounding the lake, the tourists’ attention is captured by Villa Crespi, a luxurious residence which dates back to the end of the 19th century and now houses a hotel and a restaurant run by star chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo. After taking a culinary break at the restaurant, you can proceed along the tree-lined path surrounded by earthy streets, piers, uninhabited houses and drifting boats.
The charm of Orta Lake stems mainly from its almost mystical atmosphere: whether you are lost in thought or chatting softly with your friends, time seems to stand still when you stroll around the lake. You can then visit Orta San Giulio, a small village perched atop the hills overlooking the lake, where restaurants, colourful gardens and artisan shops await the tourists. You can even relax in one of the many green areas along the shore or wet your feet while sitting on a pier and enjoying the afternoon sunshine. After a little rest, you can continue your walk and have a drink at sunset in the terrace of the many cozy bars situated in the area.
ENJOY THE CULTURAL AND CULINARY LANDSCAPE OF THE LAKE ON SUNDAY
Maggiore Lake, about half an hour from Orta Lake, offers a completely different landscape. Not unlike the cities of the Côte d’Azur, Maggiore Lake is also surrounded by villas and luxury hotels. Before you begin your walk, we recommend you leave your car and take the waterbus, which is, in fact, the best way to reach the main attractions of the lake: Isola Bella and Isola Superiore, the so-called Borromean Islands. Isola Bella is home to the wonderful Palazzo Borromeo, with its beautiful art collection, the perfectly preserved rooms and the lush garden offering an explosion of colours and fragrances, especially during the summer.
For lunch time, the place to be is Isola Superiore, which is also known as Isola dei Pescatori (Fishermen’s Island). The small island is populated by cozy restaurants located on the shore or in the cobbled streets, where you can enjoy the local delicacies, which are best served with a glass of white wine.
Ready to go?
In collaboration with Study in Torino
