ITALY
San Giulio island, Lake Orta
Baveno • Lake Maggiore & Borromean Islands • Cannobio & Villa Taranto Gardens • Lake Como • Zermatt & The Matterhorn • Lake Orta
Lake Maggiore, Orta & Como A spectacularly beautiful tour taking in the villages and islands of Italy’s most sophisticated lake, Maggiore, visits to Lakes Como and Orta, plus breathtaking alpine scenery, the chic Swiss resort of Zermatt and the iconic Matterhorn.
Your itinerary DAY 1 – Arrival in Baveno Arrive at the airport for your flight. On arrival transfer by coach to Baveno, a quiet town on the idyllic shores of Lake Maggiore and check in to the historic four-star Hotel Simplon. This evening we enjoy a welcome dinner. (D) DAY 2 – Lake Maggiore & Borromean Islands Lake Maggiore is one of Italy’s best natural treasures, with breathtaking views and lush; unmistakably Mediterranean in character, its green shores are brightened by oleanders, palms and deeply aromatic verbena, while its waters reflect the azure sky above. We take a relaxing cruise to the ravishing Borromean Islands, calling at Isola Bella, an architectural and horticultural masterpiece, for a guided tour of its Baroque palazzo and terraced gardens.
Isola Bella gardens
Next, we visit the tiny fishing village on Isola dei Pescatori with its compact latticework of cream-coloured houses. The shore is dotted with vibrant restaurants and cafés overlooking the lake, the perfect spot for lunch at your leisure. Afterwards, perhaps wander through the village’s narrow, winding lanes before we cruise back to Baveno Lake Como
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