Just as our desire to explore and experience new lands is timeless, so too is the beauty of an Italian Lake holiday, unfailingly delighting visitors for centuries. Indeed it was the influx of the pioneering British during the days of the Grand Tour, who first brought fame to the majestic Lake Maggiore and helped to create the sophisticated lakeside villages, nestling like pearls on a string, along its picturesque, verbena-clad shores. This wonderful combination of truly awesome Swiss mountain scenery and the tranquillity of the crystal clear Italian Lakes in a montage of splendour, cries out to be explored.
It is very difficult to describe the sheer stunning beauty of the Italian Lakes and it is hardly surprising that so many composers like Verdi and Rossini, plus countless poets and writers have sought peace and inspiration here. Its heady mix of serene, deep waters, fragrant orange blossom and verbena lend their delicate scents to the warm air whilst forest-clad hillsides, typical Italian medieval villages, mouth-watering fresh food and an effervescent people unique on the planet make it hard to beat.
Lake Maggiore itself straddles both Italy and Switzerland, and we stay in Stresa, a very stylish typical Italian town and once a favourite haunt of Hemingway, Chaplin and many others. We explore not only Lake Maggiore, but the equally beautiful Lake Como as well, plus the hidden gem that is Lake Orta, probably one of the most entrancing places you will ever visit. With the arc of the majestic Alps stretching out along the horizon you will enjoy probably the finest mountain scenery in the world during your visits to Switzerland, chic Locarno and dramatic Zermatt, nestling famously at the foot of the mighty Matterhorn, the world’s most charismatic peak. Then there are the delightful lost valleys, tumbling glacier streams and classic chalet scenes all blended together to offer a truly inspirational tour.
The price of this holiday is per person based on two people sharing a twin room. Single and lake view rooms are subject to availability at the relevant supplement. The price includes:
Not included is the optional cable car ride to the Matterhorn. The approximate cost is £70 and is payable locally.
An increasing number of you want to stretch your legs whilst away so you may want to join a complimentary guided walk. It’s not arduous, though it is best to have light walking shoes or good trainers.
Firstly, we take the eight-minute local train to the tiny hamlet of Verbania Pallanza, wonderfully nestling itself on one of Italy’s most gorgeous yet unknown lakes - Lake Mergozzo. We follow a delightful track through an unspoilt oak forest teeming with wildlife with our naturalist guide describing the flora and fauna we encounter. It’s always fascinating getting so far off the beaten track, and after time for a coffee at our final destination by the lakeside we return to Stresa by train.
It’s a superb, leisurely trip but places are strictly limited and must be pre-booked. This is not bookable online so please contact our reservations department for more information or to book.
This walk is around three-and-a-half to four miles - this will be confirmed by your Tour Manager on the day of the walk. Please note some uphill walking is required.
This is only on selected departures.
Fact File
Visa Information
Irish Citizens do not require a visa to enter Portugal or Spain however must have a valid passport. For the most up-to-date passport and visa information visit www.dfa.ie/travel/travel-advice/
We are unable to accept responsibility if you are unable to travel because you have not complied with any passport/entry/immigration requirements.
Mobility
We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitabilty of the holiday due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to call us to discuss these concerns.
Hotel Information