Lake Maggiore – a gem of Italy and Switzerland
Lake Maggiore is Italy’s second largest lake and natural border between Italy and Switzerland, with stunning views of the Alps and Mediterranean flora. The region offers both a rich history and breathtaking natural beauty, making it a firm favourite with visitors.
Isola Madre, Isola Bella and Isola dei Pescatori are the three Borromean Islands that sit like gems on Lake Maggiore. With scenic views, luxurious palaces and beautiful gardens, these islands will capture your heart. Furthermore, the picturesque lakeside towns of Baveno and Stresa offer stunning views of the lake, both renowned for their architecture, cosmopolitan lifestyle, elegant boutiques, bustling cafes and gastronomic delights.
Just a short distance away from Maggiore is the captivating Lake Orta, with the traditional town of Omegna nestled on its shore. Additionally, head into the mountains north of the lake to ride the enchanting 100 Valleys Railway. Take in the breathtaking views as the train winds through gorges, over viaducts and past tumbling waterfalls through Italy into Switzerland. After taking in these incredible landscapes, hop on a relaxing and picturesque lake cruise from Locarno in Switzerland back to Baveno. Whilst in the region, you also have the possibility to discover stunning Lake Como.
Dates
2025 dates on request
Suggested itinerary by coach
Day 1-2
Travel to Lake Maggiore
Take the short sea ferry crossing from Dover to Calais and head south through France making an overnight stop enroute. Next day continue into Italy and your hotel in Baveno for the next 6 nights.
Day 3
Day at leisure (no coach travel)
A day to relax and enjoy the facilities of your hotel and surroundings of Baveno.
The enchanting little lakeside town of Baveno, next to Stresa, is of Roman origin, and is famous for its mineral water springs and its quarries of pink granite, and as a holiday resort. The fine lakefront promenade offers a superb view of the Borromean Islands. The architectural attractions of the town include the Parish Church of Santi Gervasio and Protasio and the Baptistery.
Alternatively, for garden enthusiasts, take the 15 minute boat crossing from Baveno over to Verbania to visit the Botanical gardens of Villa Taranto – one of the most stunning gardens around Lake Maggiore.
Day 4
Palaces and Gardens of the Borromean Islands by boat
Hop aboard your boat in Baveno for an island-hopping cruise on Lake Maggiore to visit the three Borromean islands, certainly one of the highlights of this tour. Isola Bella is possibly the jewel in the crown, offering unparalleled views of the lake and the surroundings. It is still home to the Borromean family and dominated by its sumptuous Baroque Palace and luxuriant Italian-styled gardens, laid out on ten terraces overlooking the lake, with an abundance of citrus trees and unique albino peacocks roaming between magnificent floral designs.
Then, there is Isola Madre, the largest of the three islands, and renowned all over the world for its botanical collections with a fascinating palazzo. Last, but not least, is picturesque Isola Dei Pescatori (the fisherman’s island). This romantic ancient fisherman’s village is home to many restaurants, cafés, bars and souvenir shops and where you can enjoy some of the freshest seafood.
Day 5
‘One Hundred Valleys’ Railway and Lake Cruise
This full-day excursion begins north of Lake Maggiore in the mountain town of Domodossola, where you board the Centovalli Railway for a scenic ride across the wild and romantic ‘One Hundred Valleys’ region, winding through gorges and mountains and past waterfalls of the Vigezzo Valley and Centovalli until you reach Locarno in Switzerland. The total journey is 52km, crosses 83 bridges and goes through 31 tunnels and the journey time is approximately 2-3 hours (depending upon the number of stops made).
Explore the ancient charm of the old town of Locarno with its picturesque alleys and the Piazza Grande or visit one of the city’s many museums or parks before embarking on a leisurely three hour cruise back to Baveno.
(Note: this excursion may operate in reverse subject to schedules and availability)
Day 6
Lake Orta and local Market
A short drive from Lake Maggiore is the romantic Lake Orta. This stunning lake is much quieter than Maggiore, making it a joy to discover. The town of Omegna, which sits at the head of the lake, has a traditional Italian market on Thursday mornings.
Continue to the medieval lakeside village of Orta where you can take an optional boat trip to the nearby little island of St. Giulio and its 4th century church. Orta is famous for its tiny streets and sacred hillside and filled with numerous souvenir shops, bars and cafes.
Before returning to the hotel, there is the option to visit one of the region’s vineyards for an optional wine tasting or return via Arona, overlooked by the imposing statue of Saint Charles Borromeo.
Day 7
Lake Como
Lake Como is yet another one of the most spectacular lakes in Italy with stunning vistas! First, a stop in the lakeside city of Como, the historic city of silk. You can visit beautiful squares with Romanesque or Gothic style churches. The main square is Piazza Duomo, which houses the imposing Duomo di Como and its bell tower is the Broletto, the former town hall, with a white, grey and red marble facade.
Whilst in Como it is recommended to jump aboard a boat for a relaxing cruise from where you can see picturesque lakeside towns, villages and historical villas surrounded by majestic mountains.
If time allows, make the short lakeside drive to Villa Carlotta, near Tremezzo, famous for its magnificent tropical gardens that overlook the lake.
Day 8-9
Return to the UK
It is time to bid ‘Arrivederci’ to Lake Maggiore as you make your way to Calais, stopping overnight en-route before taking the short sea crossing next day to the UK.
Optional extra day
Milan – Regional capital of Lombardy – Home to ‘The Last Supper’
In the heart of the city is the Piazza Duomo overlooked by the Duomo di Milan (Milan Cathedral), the very symbol of the city. The stunning work of Gothic architecture is Italy’s largest church with its intricately decorated façade and multitude of spires. And sitting right on top of it is the famous golden statue of the Virgin Mary, the Madonnina, another everlasting symbol of Milan. See the fresco of ‘The Last Supper’, one of Leonardo da Vinci’s most famous masterpieces, in the Santa Maria delle Grazie church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Other famous sights include the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Sforza Castle and La Scala Opera House to name but a few. But Milan is also famous for its many designer shops and retail outlets.
Featured hotel
Hotel Simplon, Baveno **** – Firm Favourite with Greatdays’ Groups
A fantastic family run hotel located close to the lake. Just a five minute walk from Baveno landing stage for boat excursions, the hotel has recently undergone extensive renovation, especially on the pool and garden areas. The hotel offers a restaurant, bar, gardens, outdoor pool and spa facilities. Coach parking onsite.
Dates | Half Twin | Single Supplement |
03 March – 04 April 25 |
£899.00 per person | Price on request |
29 June – 11 July 25 | £939.00 per person | Price on request |
12 July – 31 August 25 | £959.00 per person | Price on request |
05 October – 24 October 25 | £939.00 per person | Price on request |