Add the stunning Italian Lake District to your travel bucket list for your next trip to Italy!
Lake Maggiore
Lake Maggiore, Italy’s second-largest lake, enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate and forms part of the border with Switzerland. This lake is a significant reason why the Italian Lake District is a renowned travel destination.
While predominantly in Italy, Lake Maggiore also extends north into Switzerland, reaching the lovely city of Locarno. The northern shores are distinguished by steep cliffs, with historical sites, stunning villas, castles, and churches scattered throughout the area. Numerous small villages cling to the mountainsides, overlooking the tranquil waters.
The Borromean Islands
The breathtaking Borromean Islands are among the region’s top attractions. Comprising three main islands and two small islets, they have captivated visitors for years, including the likes of Hemmingway and Queen Victoria. The islands feature Isola Bella, known for its 17th-century Palazzo Borromeo and exquisite gardens; the scenic Isola dei Pescatori; and Isola Madre, which boasts beautiful botanical gardens filled with rare plants. The two islets, S. Giovanni, located close to Pallanza, and the tiny Isola La Malghera, complete this island repertoire.
Lake Orta
Villa Carlotta – A must-see attraction in the Italian Lake District
This remarkable villa and its gorgeous park are famous for stunning terraced gardens and an impressive museum featuring works by Canova, Thorvaldsen, and Hayez.
Lake Orta, the smallest pre-Alpine lake, is often considered a hidden gem. Surrounded by charming villages nestled in a peaceful hilly landscape, it exudes a delightful Mediterranean charm. In the village of Orta, you can wander through the old market square and explore quaint, narrow medieval alleys adorned with secluded gardens. A boat trip to San Giulio Island will offer the chance to visit the oldest church in the region, featuring exquisite Renaissance frescoes.
Camellia Park Locarno – A Secret Travel Tip
The enchanting Camellia Park, inaugurated in 2005 in Locarno, has quickly become a notable attraction. The local gardeners have expanded their extensive collection, collaborating with growers from Italy, Germany, Belgium, the USA, and China to bring in rare species.
Lake Como
Moving on to Lake Como, we find the city of Como situated along the southernmost shore. Once a thriving center of the silk industry, Como gained fame for its silk production, where rearing silkworms flourished as the region’s largest employer in the 15th century. Today, many local businesses still engage in silk manufacturing, and the products are widely available in the town’s shops. The town’s medieval walls can be seen in the historic center, alongside the San Abbondio and San Fedele churches, the Porta Vittoria tower, and the Bishop’s Palace.
Bellagio
Nestled across from Griante, where Lake Como diverges into two branches, lies Bellagio, often referred to as “the Pearl of Lake Como.” This charming town, home to around three thousand residents, is regarded as one of Northern Italy’s most picturesque and romantic destinations. Blessed with a mild climate similar to that of the Ligurian coast, Bellagio serves as a gateway to many unforgettable hiking trails, revealing breathtaking views and enchanting landscapes.
For those seeking relaxation and swimming, Lido di Bellagio offers a delightful beach equipped with umbrellas and sun loungers. Explore the historic “Borgo,” with its intriguing alleys and quaint stone-paved stairs lined with vibrant shops, or stroll along the shoreline to admire the majestic Villa Melzi D’Eril, built in 1808 for Duke Francesco Melzi D’Eril. The park surrounding this stunning neoclassical villa is open to visitors from late March to early November.
Botanical Group Tour: Lake Maggiore
Camellia Exhibition
Locarno – Lake Maggiore
Celebrate spring’s arrival by immersing yourself in a vibrant display of flowers. The sunny Swiss town of Locarno attracts visitors from around the globe to witness its renowned floral maze of camellias, mimosas, magnolias, rhododendrons, and azaleas.
The Camellia Exhibition, known as “Camelie Locarno”, is the premier European event dedicated to this beautiful Asian flower. It is set in the delightful Camellia Park of Locarno, one of the richest camellia collections worldwide, spanning ten thousand square meters and boasting over a thousand plants of nearly as many camellia varieties.
End of March
The park provides a stunning backdrop for the spring festival held along the shores of beautiful Lake Maggiore. During this season, visitors are treated to the sight of nearly 250 varieties of camellias in bloom and exquisitely arranged floral displays, the highlight of the festival taking place at the end of March.
The exhibition also includes additional activities such as a camellia market, tea tastings, concerts, and shows.
Why we believe it’s one of Italy’s best spring blossom festivals?
The Lake District in Italy is a breathtaking destination, especially during spring. The festival invites you to witness the vibrant awakening of nature around Lake Maggiore.
