Lombardy, Italy

Lombardy is one of the largest regions in Northern Italy, home to Milan, Bergamo, Brescia and the beautiful lake districts. You come to this area of Italy to retreat, relax, enjoy culture, activities, and all that the beauty of the lakes has to offer.

Stresa

Stresa is located along the scenic coastal road that runs from Arona to the Swiss border, on the Piedmont side of Lake Maggiore.

The main draw in Stresa is the Borromean Islands: Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola dei Pescatori. Each island has its own charm, and all three are a short boat ride from Stresa.

Highlights include:

Sanctuary of Santa Caterina del Sasso

Castle of Angera

Museum of Dolls

Parco del Mottarone

Lago Maggiore Aquadventure Park

Distances from Stresa:

Lake Orta - 30 minutes

Lake Mergozzo - 20 minutes

Lake Como - 1 hr 15

Lake Garda - 2 hr

Milan - 1 hr 20

Como

The city of Como is a beautiful retreat surrounded by medieval walls situated on Lake Como.

Highlights include:

Como Cathedral

Boat tours to Bellagio & Tremezzo

Basilica of San Carpoforo

Basilica of Sant’Abbondio

Basilica of San Fedele

Broletto (Town Hall)

Tremezzo & Bellagio

In Tremezzo, visit Villa Carlotta, where you can view art collections including beautiful sculptures by Canova and the botanical gardens.

Experience an open-top Venetian water taxi along the coast from Tremezzo to Lenno to see Villa del Balbianello from the water and circle Comacina Island.

Cruise along the opposite coast to the botanical gardens of Villa Melzi before you reach Bellagio.

A popular thing to do in this area is to take a cooking class at the lovely fishing village of Mandello del Lario.

Lecco

On the shores of nearby Como is the hidden jewel, Lecco.

Highlights include:

Ponte Azzone Visconti

Pescarenico

Castello dell’Innominato

Villa Manzoni

The Basilica of San Nicolò

Palazzo Belgiojoso

Piazza Era

Lierna

Riva Bianca beach

Consonno

Viandante hiking trail

Mandello del Lario

Varenna

Bellano

Montevecchia

Lake Garda

Lake Garda has so many different aspects when looking out over its waters. Staying at Lake Garda will certainly ensure inspiration, relaxation and well-being.

You can drive the roads that circle Lake Garda in around 4-5 hours before stopping, so it is best to stay a few days here in order to truly experience the surrounding areas.

Highlights include:

Gardone Riviera - Sirmione

Scaligero Castle

Peschiera - Riva del Garda

Vittoriale degli Italiani

Garda Thermal Park

Museo Alto Garda

Torre di Arco

Varone Waterfall

Villa Canale

Punta Larici

Castle of Malcesine