Group rates from just 15 participants

ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival at Lake Maggiore

Day 2: Charming villages and Borromean Islands (boat Suna – Pescatori – Isola Bella – Intra)

Setting off from the fishing village of Suna, our hike to Cavandone, a picturesque jewel and example of a traditional dry stone walled mountain settlement, affords wonderful alpine and lake views. Back in Suna we take the boat to the Borromean Islands and enjoy lunch at leisure in the fishing village on Isola dei Pescatori in the afternoon we head to Isola Bella and visit its sumptuous Baroque Palace with luxuriant gardens The hike begins on the lakeshore from the small colourful village of Suna, where we take the old mule track up to the pretty medieval village of Cavandone. This hike offers wonderful views over the lake and mountains and you will discover old signs and symbols engraved on the stones, together with a perfect example of a well-preserved stone village, so typical of this mountainous area. In the afternoon we discover Lake Maggiore’s beautiful jewels, the Borromean Islands, close up. We will stroll through the quaint fishing village on Isola dei Pescatori and enjoy lunch at leisure. Isola Bella will impress you with its grand Baroque Palace surrounded by a beautiful Italian garden. We return back to the hotel by boat.

Hiking time: 2.5 hours
Vertical height difference: 200m
Degree of difficulty: easy

Day 3: Along the coast to Switzerland

A panoramic hike along the coast from Cannero to Cannobio with views of the legendary castles, which appear to rise directly out of the lake itself. In the afternoon we make a short detour into Switzerland to visit the famous resort of Ascona, a former fishing village, which today is home to artists and high society

Hiking time: 3 hours
Vertical height difference: 295m
Degree of difficulty: moderate

Day 4: Lake Orta

Today we discover small but enchanting Lake Orta, a peaceful corner full of Mediterranean charm. Hiking between water and mountains, history and nature, we enjoy the spirituality and panoramic location of the Franciscan Monastery on Monte Mesma. Back to the lake shores we explore the picturesque old town of Orta San Giulio. Today, culture and spirituality meet as we take a hike around the settlements of Lake Orta. Our circular route captures the spirit of Lake Orta and encompasses water and mountains, and history and nature alike. Our first stop is Corconio, a little baroque gem, before reaching the deeply spiritual and peaceful Franciscan Monastery on Monte Mesma, which affords a stunning view. We are then brought back to the present day in the next village of Vacciago, which is devoted to contemporary art. Finally, you will have the opportunity to explore the old town of Orta San Giulio.

Hiking time: 3,5 hours
Vertical height difference: 270m
Degree of difficulty: moderate

Day 5: Lake Como

On our last day we head to the elegant town of Como and its romantic. Boat ride to the small town of Torno, a hidden jewel on the lake-shore. Panoramic circular hike through lush woods towards Monte Piatto, a beautiful terrace with an amazing view over the lake. Back to Como by boat with time to visit the fascinating old town. Today we head to the other beautiful Lake of Northern Italy, Lake Como. From the city of silk we take the boat to Torno, a hidden jewel with a picturesque historic centre. We start our hike to Monte Piatto (Flat Mount), to enjoy the most beautiful views over Lake Como. We than start hiking downhill through lush woods and reach the small town of Torno again on another path. From here we take the boat back to Como. Back in Como time to relax and discover the the fascinating old town and the magnificent lakeside promenade.

Hiking time: 4 hours
Altitude difference: 400m
Level of difficulty: middle

Day 6: Departure