The most beautiful villages around Stresa, on the shores of Lake Maggiore

It's hard to leave Stresa.

One could easily spend several days strolling along its promenade, contemplating the Borromean Islands from a bench, enjoying a coffee on a Belle Époque terrace, or watching the boats slowly disappear towards the north of the lake; an entire article has been devoted to it. Yet, just a few kilometers are enough to discover another side of the lake maggiore.

Around StresaThe villages seem to have sprung up where the landscape became too beautiful to continue on. Each one has its own personality. Baveno Look at the islands with elegance. Verbania enlivens the shoreline with its squares and gardens. Pallanza invites you to a romantic stroll among villas and palm trees. Further south, Belgirate regains an almost timeless gentleness, far from the bustle of the large piers.

They all share a unique light. The Alps seem to plunge directly into the lake. Camellias and magnolias bloom beneath the facades of the villas. The mountains protect a surprisingly mild climate where species from Asia, America, and the Mediterranean thrive.

Ideally, you should dedicate an entire day to it.

In the morning, we leave Stresa leisurely. We travel along the shores, sometimes by boat, sometimes by car or train, taking the time to stop where the landscape invites a pause. In the evening, when the sun dips behind the Piedmont mountains, we rediscover the lights of Stresa with the feeling of having explored several facets of the same lake.

Let's begin this walk with the village which seems to be the natural extension of Stresa.

Baveno, the discreet elegance of Lake Maggiore, a stone's throw from Stresa

A neighbor of Stresa facing the Borromean Islands

They are barely five kilometers apart Stresa de Baveno.

By car, the journey takes less than ten minutes. The train connects the two stations in just a few minutes. The boats of the Navigation on Lake Maggiore they also allow you to reach Baveno in a short crossing which already offers magnificent views of the Borromean Islands.

And yet, the atmosphere is changing.

There where Stresa While Baveno asserts its international elegance with its grand hotels, it retains more of the spirit of a small lakeside town. The pace slows even further. The terraces are more discreet, the quays more peaceful, and the locals outnumber the groups of visitors.

The first impression is that of a city open to the landscape.

From the lakefront, the gaze naturally glides towards Beautiful island et Isola Madrewhich seem almost closer than Stresa. The mountains are reflected in water that is often very calm in the morning. A few sailboats pass slowly by while the passenger ferries make their round trips to the islands.

It quickly becomes clear why so many travellers choose Baveno as their place of stay.

The village offers the same panoramic views as Stresa, but in a more tranquil, almost secluded atmosphere. With each inlet of the shore, the landscape transforms. The islands shift slightly in position, the mountains seem to draw near and then recede, and the colors of the lake change with the clouds.

The lakefront is particularly pleasant.

Palm trees alternate with magnolias and camellias. Benches invite you to pause and admire the lake. The perfectly manicured gardens extend naturally from the café terraces.

The walk is never monotonous. It's meant for strolling. Not for going anywhere. Simply for enjoying what the lake offers at every moment.

The pink granite that built Europe

If Baveno possesses this elegance today, it is not solely due to tourism.

For centuries, the city enjoyed a very different kind of wealth: the pink granite of BavenoThis rock, recognizable by its slightly pinkish color and sparkling crystals, has been quarried since Roman times but experienced its real boom in the 19th century. The quarries of Baveno then acquired an international reputation. Granite also appears in the quays, staircases, fountains, and facades of Baveno. It was exported throughout Europe and can be found in numerous prestigious buildings, train stations, monuments, and works of art. It was notably used in the construction of several buildings in Milan and many other Italian cities. Even today, this activity profoundly shapes the landscape. Some old quarries can be seen in the hills above the town. All of this is explained at the Museo Granum (Granite Museum). Visitors then discover a completely different side of Lake Maggiore.

Looking up, one quickly notices that this stone accompanies the whole city, giving it a very particular identity: more mineral and also more luminous when the sun hits the facades.

The contrast with the subtropical vegetation is striking.

Among the palm trees, oleanders and magnolias, this stone from the depths of the mountain constantly reminds us that Lake Maggiore also belongs to the alpine world.

The lakefront, the villas and the gardens

As in Stresa, the real pleasure lies in walking. Baveno promenade It runs along Lake Maggiore for several hundred meters. Historic hotels alternate with magnificent villas surrounded by gardens. Some still belong to prominent families. Others have been converted into hotels or elegant residences.

Vegetation plays a vital role here. Thanks to the lake's microclimate, the gardens boast an astonishing diversity of species: palm trees, camphor trees, cedars, sequoias, magnolias, azaleas, and camellias thrive just a few dozen kilometers from the Alpine peaks. In spring, the blossoms literally transform the landscape. The colors are reflected in the lake. Fragrances accompany walks. The best time is probably late afternoon, when the light becomes warmer and the facades take on golden hues.

The mountains on the Lombardy coast gradually darken while the Borromean Islands seem to float in an almost unreal light.

All you have to do is sit down on a terrace, order a coffee or a glass of Piedmontese wine, and watch the lake gently come to life.

What is there to see around Baveno?

Baveno is also an excellent starting point for some short walks.

The small port allows quick access to the Borromean Islands.

Hiking enthusiasts can reach the lower slopes of the mountain range overlooking the village. Several trails lead to the old hamlets, cross chestnut forests, or take you to the old granite quarries.

The more athletic will continue to the slopes of the Mottarone, an immense natural balcony which simultaneously overlooks Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta.

But even without leaving the lake's edge, Baveno offers a wonderful day of exploration. Simply slow down, observe the reflections, let the boats pass, and understand that, on Lake Maggiore, the most beautiful landscapes never try to impress. They seduce gently, almost silently.

Verbania, the capital of Lake Maggiore

A city born from several villages

Continuing north from Baveno, the road continues to faithfully follow the curves of the lake maggioreThe mountains remain close, sometimes covered in forests, sometimes dotted with old villas whose gardens slope down to the water. Traffic quickly disappears after a few bends, and one understands why this Piedmontese shore is often considered the most elegant on the lake.

After about fifteen minutes, it appears Verbania, main town of Verbano.

Its history, however, is recent.

Unlike Stresa or Baveno, Verbania did not originate from a single village. The current municipality resulted from the merging of several localities, notably Pallanza, Intra et Presented, each having retained its own identity. Even today, residents are more likely to talk about their neighborhood than about the city as a whole.

This organization explains Verbania's unique character. Instead of a single historical center, one discovers several districts connected by the lake. Each has its own atmosphere, squares, shops, promenades, and panoramic views.

For a visitor staying at StresaVerbania makes for an ideal day trip.

The ferry allows you to reach it directly in about twenty minutes, depending on the service. By car, you can take the coastal road in about fifteen minutes. Regional buses also provide several daily connections. Upon arrival, the change in scale is immediately apparent: Verbania has more shops, a more vibrant local life, and a constant buzz that contrasts sharply with the more contemplative character of Stresa.

Yet, despite this activity, the city has lost none of its elegance because the mountains remain omnipresent, the quays are wide open to the lake, the gardens extend into the streets and everywhere, the water accompanies the gaze.

Between gardens, villas and the good life

Verbania is often nicknamed the city of gardensThis nickname is no accident.

The exceptional climate of Lake Maggiore has allowed the acclimatization of plants from all over the world since the 19th century. Botanists, aristocrats and large landowners have gradually transformed the shores into an immense landscaped garden where palm trees, camellias, magnolias, sequoias, Himalayan cedars and subtropical species thrive.

This vegetation gives Verbania a unique atmosphere.

We are at the foot of the Alps, but some landscapes are almost reminiscent of the Mediterranean shores.

In spring, the camellias burst into thousands of blooms. Azaleas and rhododendrons then take over. Summer brings the shade of tall trees, while autumn adorns the gardens with golden hues that are reflected in the lake.

The park of the Villa Fedora It now forms a pleasant public space by the lake.

This gentle pace of life is reflected in the rhythm of daily existence. The locals seem to have naturally adopted the rhythm of the lake. Cafes open early. Markets enliven the squares. The quays welcome strollers, cyclists, and families throughout the day. Visitors are never in a hurry. They wander from one terrace to another, pause in front of a building, embark on a boat trip, or simply extend their walk. Verbania possesses that rare quality of towns where life is good without the need to cram in sightseeing. The pleasure lies as much in getting around as in visiting monuments.

Intra, the animated face of Verbania

Before heading to Pallanza, it is interesting to discover Intra, the most vibrant area of ​​Verbania.

Its port welcomes the ferries that cross the lake towards Laveno-MombelloOn the Lombard side of the river, the squares are lined with cafes, pastry shops, and businesses open year-round. Here, tourism shares the space with everyday life.

The pedestrian streets invite you to stroll among independent shops, bookstores and Italian grocery stores where olive oils, artisanal pasta, Piedmontese cheeses and wines from Upper Piedmont are displayed.

The weekly market attracts customers from all over the region.

Unlike Stresa, which caters heavily to tourists, Intra feels more like a true Italian town, living at the pace of its inhabitants. This contrast is what makes Verbania so special. A few minutes' walk then takes you to Pallanza, arguably the most appealing area for travelers.

Pallanza, the most romantic promenade on Lake Maggiore

A lakefront facing the Borromean Islands

While Stresa boasts luxury hotels and Baveno serenity, Pallanza offer probably the most beautiful walk of lake maggiore.

From the very first steps, your gaze is drawn to a succession of vistas. The quays alternate with small squares. The terraces seem to hang suspended above the water. Palm trees cast their shade on the benches where locals come to read the newspaper or chat while gazing at the lake. And above all, right opposite, the Borromean Islands appear in all their elegance.

From Pallanza, they seem almost to float between the sky and the mountains.

The Isola MadreCovered in lush vegetation, it appears wilder.Beautiful islandThe, with its baroque palace, immediately catches the eye. Further on, theIsola dei Pescatori hints at its bell tower and its houses huddled together.

The walk is particularly pleasant in the late afternoon when the light becomes more raking, the ochre and cream facades take on warm hues and the mountains on the Lombard shore slowly darken while the waters of the lake reflect the first lights.

The atmosphere is almost silent. The only sounds are the lapping of water against the quays and the passing of boats returning to their final berths. Few places invite you to slow down as much.

The gardens of Villa Taranto, a botanical masterpiece

Like Stresa, Pallanza has a remarkable collection of historic villas.

They appear behind high walls, nestled among cypress trees, camellias, and magnolias. Some remain private. Others have been transformed into elegant hotels or house cultural institutions. Together, they create an exceptionally harmonious landscape, as nothing is ostentatious.

Just a few hundred meters from the center of Pallanza lies one of the most famous gardens in Europe: the botanical gardens of the Villa Taranto.

Created in the 1930s by the Scottish captain Neil McEacharnThey now cover nearly 16 hectares : and bring together several thousand plant species from all five continents.

The visit is a true botanical stroll. The paths meander between ponds, fountains, lawns, collections of rhododendrons, Japanese maples, lotuses, dahlias and exotic plants. Each season has its own unique spectacle.

• In spring, tulips and azaleas offer an explosion of colours.
• Summer highlights aquatic plants and flowerbeds.
• Autumn transforms the maple trees into veritable impressionist paintings.

Even visitors with little interest in botany generally leave impressed by the harmony of the place.

Villa Taranto alone is worth several hours of visiting.

It perfectly illustrates what makes Lake Maggiore so unique: an almost improbable encounter between the starkness of the Alps and the lushness of a subtropical garden. For many, it is one of the most beautiful gardens in Italy. And undoubtedly one of the essential stops during a stay near Stresa.

Belgirate, the peaceful charm of Lake Maggiore, south of Stresa

A village where time seems to slow down

After the lively atmosphere of Verbania and the elegance of Pallanza, heading south again feels strange. The lake seems to gradually regain its calm. The docks become less crowded, the boats fewer, and the mountains draw closer to the shore once more.

Just a few kilometers south of Stresa, appears Belgirate, one of the oldest villages of lake maggiore.

The change in atmosphere is immediate.

Here, there are no grand palaces or bustling piers. Belgirate cultivates a more intimate, almost secretive elegance. Old houses line the lakefront. Cobbled lanes climb gently towards the first hills, while a few Belle Époque villas serve as reminders that the village, too, enjoyed its heyday at the end of the 19th century.

The lakefront is one of the most pleasant in Verbano. A few benches invite you to contemplate the mountains that close the horizon to the north. The lake's waters gently lap against the stone quays. Cypress and palm trees create a typically lakeside silhouette where Alpine and Mediterranean influences blend naturally.

Belgirate never tries to impress. That's precisely what makes him endearing.

We stroll slowly, without a specific itinerary, simply to appreciate the gentleness that characterizes the villages of Lake Maggiore when the tourist bustle fades away.

The village of writers and Belle Époque villas

Just ten minutes south of Stresa, Belgirate It offers a much more discreet side of Lake Maggiore. Here, there are no grand hotels or bustling promenades, but a peaceful village where historic villas stand side by side behind high stone walls and elegant wrought-iron gates. Over the centuries, this refined atmosphere attracted aristocrats, artists, and writers who came to these shores seeking tranquility, a mild climate, and beautiful scenery. Even today, a stroll along the lake offers glimpses of many of these remarkable residences, often hidden behind lush gardens that slope down to the water's edge.

Among them, Villa TrevesBuilt at the end of the 18th century, it remains the most emblematic. First owned by the Beretta family, then by the Napoleonic general Domenico Pino, it later passed into the hands of the Milanese publisher Emilio Treves, who entertained many literary figures there. Its vast terraced park slopes down to the lake and offers magnificent views of the mountains and the hermitage of Saint Catherine of Sasso, on the opposite bank. Not far from there, Villa Cairoli Meanwhile, it evokes the history of the Italian Risorgimento. The house belonged to the Cairoli family, several members of which actively participated in the unification of Italy, and Giuseppe Garibaldi He was welcomed there on several occasions.

Belgirate also maintains a special connection with Italian literature. Antonio Rosmini, philosopher and theologian, stayed there regularly, as did Alessandro Manzoni, author of betrothed, or even the poet Guido Gozzanowho immortalized the elegant atmosphere of the village in his famous poem L'amica di nonna SperanzaThe current Villa CharlotteNow transformed into a charming hotel, it perpetuates this heritage by still overlooking the lake from its wooded park. Other residences, such as Villa Conelli, with its carefully preserved Italian-style garden, or the Villa Princess MatildeThe former residence of Napoleon's niece reminds us how Belgirate was, from the 19th century onwards, one of the most sought-after addresses for high society in Lombardy and Piedmont.

But Belgirate's true charm undoubtedly lies in its understated elegance, seemingly untouched by time. The quays invite a peaceful stroll among the piers, flower-filled gardens, and colorful facades reflected in the lake. Mountains rise in the background as a few sailboats glide silently across the water. Here, one understands why so many writers found inspiration in contemplating this landscape. Belgirate doesn't seek to impress; it simply invites you to slow down, watch the lake change color throughout the day, and savor, for a brief pause, this sweet life which is what makes Lake Maggiore so charming.

The Chestnut Tree Trail, another way to discover the lake

Belgirate is also the starting point for one of the most pleasant walks in the area: the Chestnut Tree Trail (Chestnut TrailThis historic route connects Belgirate à Stresa Following the old communication routes that once crossed the hills overlooking the lake, the trail winds through magnificent chestnut groves, passes through ancient stone hamlets, and regularly offers superb panoramic views of Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands. The hike is accessible to most walkers.

It takes approximately 2 p.m. to 30 p.m. Depending on the route, the elevation gain is moderate. In spring and autumn, when the light filters through the undergrowth, this walk is among the most beautiful in the area. Above all, it offers the chance to discover a landscape often overlooked by visitors.

The Borromean Islands, the jewels that watch over Stresa

Three islands, three personalities

From almost all the villages mentioned so far, the gaze always ends up returning to them.

The Borromean Islands constitute the true landscape heart of Lake Maggiore.

Just a few minutes' boat trip from Stresa, they offer three completely different worlds.

Beautiful island It amazes with its spectacular baroque palace and terraced gardens.

Isola Madre captivated by its extraordinary botanical garden where white peacocks, exotic plants and centuries-old trees create an almost tropical setting.

Isola dei PescatoriFinally, there remains an authentic lakeside village where the narrow streets, small houses and fish restaurants recall the origins of Lake Maggiore.

Discovering them takes a whole day. Each island has its own rhythm, its history and its atmosphere. We will therefore dedicate a full article to exploring their heritage, gardens and palaces with all the attention they deserve.

Mottarone, the balcony between the Alps and the lakes, above Stresa

A mountain overlooking seven lakes

When the gaze leaves the lake and turns westward, it inevitably encounters the rounded silhouette of the Mottarone.

This mountain culminates at 1 491 meters constitutes one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Northern Italy.

On a clear day, the panorama simultaneously encompasses the lake maggiore, the Lake Orta, the Lake Varese, the Lake Mergozzo and several other Piedmontese lakes, in addition to the mountain range of Mount Rose, the Valais Alps and, sometimes, the first peaks of the Mont Blanc massif.

The contrast is striking. In less than an hour, you go from the palm trees along the lake to the flowering alpine meadows and the vast mountain beech forests. Mottarone is well worth a day trip, both for its panoramic views and for its hiking and winter activities.

How to explore the area around Stresa?

By boat, the most beautiful way to travel

To discover the villages of Lake Maggiore, the boat remains undeniably the most pleasant means of transport.

The ships of the Navigation on Lake Maggiore regularly connect Stresa, Baveno, Verbania-Pallanza, Intra, Belgirate as well as Borromean IslandsDepending on the season, several dozen crossings are offered each day, making it easy to plan your itinerary and multiply the number of stops.

Traveling by lake offers a unique perspective on Belle Époque facades, historic villas, and gardens that often remain hidden from the road. Tickets can be purchased directly at the docks or online on the company's website. Day passes allow unlimited travel between the main ports, making them ideal for exploring several villages in a single day.

The Borromean Islands, an unmissable excursion

From the Stresa piers, the Borromean Islands are only a few minutes' sail away. The first boats join Beautiful island in less than class, then continue towards Isola dei Pescatori et Isola MadreThe public company Navigation on Lake Maggiore as well as several private companies provide very frequent shuttle services between the three islands and the main towns of the Borromean Gulf.

To fully enjoy the palaces, gardens and villages, it is best to dedicate a whole day to this excursion. Tickets combining navigation and entrance to the palaces of Borromeo lands generally represent the most advantageous solution.

Mottarone, the most beautiful balcony overlooking Lake Maggiore

Dominating Stresa by nearly 1 300 meters, the Mottarone (1,491 m) is one of the most beautiful hikes in the area. Since the cable car closed in 2021, access is mainly via the SP41 scenic route who leaves Stresa and reaches the summit in 35 to 40 minutes by car. The road is also used by a seasonal shuttle bus linking Stresa to the summit during the summer months, as well as by several cycling routes that are very popular with climbers.

From the summit, the The view is exceptional.On a clear day, the gaze takes in the lake maggiore, the Lake Orta, the Valais Alps, the massif of Mount Rose and, depending on conditions, up to seven lakes in Piedmont and Lombardy. In summer, Mottarone is a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers; in winter, it hosts a small family ski resort as well as snowshoeing trails.

By train

The international railway line Milan–Domodossola dessert directly Belgirate, Stresa et Baveno.

To join Verbaniayou need to get off at the train station Verbania-Pallanza, located in the Fondotoce area, then take the urban buses (VCO Trasporti lines) which reach Pallanza or Intra in about fifteen minutes.

The train is an excellent solution to avoid parking difficulties during the high season.

By car

The coastal road is magnificent.

The distances remain modest: 5 km separate Stresa from Baveno, 15 km approximately allow access to Verbania, while Belgirate is located at 7 km south from Stresa. Mottarone is accessible in about forty minutes via a scenic road already offering superb views of the lake.

Several public car parks are available in each municipality, although they can quickly fill up during summer weekends.

By bike

Cyclists will particularly appreciate this part of Lake Maggiore.

The route alternates between flat sections, small climbs, and viewpoints that regularly invite you to take a break. More athletic cyclists can tackle the famous ascent of Mottarone, one of the classic climbs in Piedmont with nearly 1 meters of positive altitude difference from Stresa. Cyclists will prefer to leisurely follow the banks to Belgirate, Baveno ou Verbania, taking advantage of the many scenic stops.

Many rental companies now offer electric bikes, perfectly adapted to the terrain of the area and allowing you to comfortably explore the surroundings without giving up the magnificent views.

Return to Stresa as the sun sets over the lake

At the end of the day, head back towards Stresa gives a unique sensation.

The villages we passed through throughout the day each revealed a different facet of the lake maggiore The serenity of Baveno, the verdant elegance of Verbania, the romanticism of Pallanza, the timeless gentleness of Belgirate. Each deserves a moment of your time, whether you're sitting on a terrace or simply letting time slip by by the water.

And yet, when the first grand hotels reappear and the Borromean Islands stand out against the evening light, one immediately understands why Stresa has become the lake's tourist capital. The promenade comes alive one last time. Boats slowly return to the harbor. The Belle Époque facades take on golden hues. Terraces fill up as the mountains gradually sink into shadow. It's the perfect moment to rediscover that unique atmosphere that makes Stresa so charming.

And if you wish to extend your exploration, take the time to visit its palaces, its history, its gardens, its quays, and plan your stay down to the smallest detail, check out our a complete guide dedicated to Stresa, a true gateway to the wonders of Lake Maggiore.

Photo credits:

Isola Bella and Isola dei Pescatori:Gianni Careddu, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons // https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e3/Stresa%2C_isola_Bella_%2801%29.jpg

Baveno seen from Stresa: Abxbay, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons // https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/0f/Baveno_View_from_Stresa.JPG

Baveno in the evening: qwesy qwesy, CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons //https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b1/Piazza_Dante_Alighier_in_Baveno_-_panoramio.jpg

Pallanza: Pymouss, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons// https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f9/Verbania_-_Pallanza_20160628.jpg

Pallanza Intra: Alessandro Vecchi, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons // https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/ce/Pallanza-Intra.jpg

Villa Taranto; Wolfgang Sauber, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons// https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/30/Villa_Taranto_-_Gartenterrasse_3.jpg

Verbania-Pallanza: Verylemon, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons// https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/57/VERBANIA-PALLANZA-DSC_0484.jpg

Belgirate: Torsade de Pointes, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons// https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b8/Belgirate_Panorama_1.JPG

Panorama Mottarone: qwesy qwesy, CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons // https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c4/View_from_Monte_Mottarone_to_Lago_Maggiore_-_panoramio_%281%29.jpg

Monte Rosa from Mottarone: qwesy qwesy, CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons // https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/69/View_from_Monte_Mottarone_-_panoramio_%281%29.jpg

Stresa lungolago: Alessandro Vecchi, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons // https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/74/Stresa_lungolago.jpg

Other photos: Canva and @OlivierCiucci

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