ITINERARIES
The Verbano Valleys offer a rich array of tourist-sports itineraries ideal for those who love outdoor activities and enjoying the beauty of lakes, woods and mountains.
TREKKING
Choose your itinerary and go on an adventure!
DOWNLOAD THE TRAIL MAP HERE:
"IL CAMMINO DEL LAGO MAGGIORE"
The Cammino del Lago Maggiore is a circular hiking trail of approximately 230-240 km that embraces the shores of Lake Maggiore, crossing Lombardy, Piedmont and Switzerland in a participatory itinerary. Divided into 11 stages, the route runs halfway up the coast and between small historic centers and rural areas, offering a slow and sustainable tourism experience, ideal in spring.
Main features
Length and Caps:
Approximately 230-240 km in total, divided into 11 stages, with distances ranging between 15 and 25 km.
Path:
Ring loop that winds through Lombardy, Piedmont, and Switzerland.
Difficulty:
Various, with easy, medium and difficult sections, avoiding asphalt and enhancing forested and rural landscapes.
Best Period:
Spring is the recommended time for walking, to enjoy the beauty of the area and better distribute tourist flows.
INFO, STAGES AND TRACKS: https://www.camminolagomaggiore.it/
Made by TRACCIAMINIMA: https://www.tracciaminima.it/
CYCLE TOURISM
Living Varese on two wheels means pedaling through pre-Alpine landscapes, discovering small villages, churches, and hermitages. All immersed in a naturalistic setting of great charm and with circular tours of the lakes, admiring unique panoramic views.
Verbano Valleys
It is the northernmost area of the province of Varese among painted villages and fantastic views with the Alps and Lake Maggiore in the background.
BY BOAT
Hermitage of S. Catherine of Sasso
FROM LAVENO MOMBELLO TO THE HERMITAGE
Every Sunday until September 14, 2025, you can enjoy a unique experience with the "Laveno and Santa Caterina del Sasso" tour offered by Trenord. The journey begins aboard a comfortable train bound for Laveno Mombello.
Once you arrive in Laveno, the route continues by water: you board a Navigazione Laghi boat, which takes you directly to the hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso, an architectural jewel nestled in the rock overlooking the lake.
Reaching the hermitage by boat is an unmissable opportunity to admire the lake landscape from a privileged perspective, amidst nature, silence, and beauty. The monastic complex, founded in the 12th century, is one of the most iconic sites of Lake Maggiore, known for its spectacular location, history, and spiritual significance.
INFORMATION
The initiative is active every Sunday, until September 14, 2025.
CASTLES OF CANNERO
THE CASTLES REOPENED IN 2025
After a major restoration lasting several years, the Cannero Castles, located on two small islands off the Piedmont shore of Lake Maggiore, have finally reopened their doors to the public.
This historic site, dating back to the 15th century, has been transformed into a multimedia museum that tells not only the history of the fortress but also that of the surrounding area and significant national events.
The project was promoted by the Borromeo family and is part of the Terre Borromeo cultural circuit, enriching the tourist offer of the lake with an immersive experience between history, architecture, and landscape.
INFORMATION
You can visit the castles conveniently from Luino. Boats depart daily from Serenelle beach, with scheduled departures at 10:40 AM, 11:15 AM, 1:15 PM, and 3:05 PM. Space is limited, so advance booking through the official Terre Borromeo website is highly recommended: tickets.terreborromeo.it.
Rates
- Adults: €25.00
- Children (6–15 years): €20.00
- Children (0–5 years): €10.00
The ticket includes round-trip boat transportation, museum admission, and an audio guide.
For further details or to organize visits with groups and schools, you can contact the Terre Borromeo call center, active every day from 8:30 to 18:00 at the number+39 0323 933478.
BORROMEAN ISLANDS
THE PALACES AND GARDENS OF THE BORROMEAN GULF
From March 15 to November 2, 2025, the palaces and gardens of the Borromean Islands will open their doors to visitors every day, offering an unmissable experience among the wonders of Lake Maggiore.
Located in the suggestive Borromean Gulf, the three islands are true landscape and cultural jewels. Isola Bella, the most scenic one, is located between Stresa and Baveno and is home to the sumptuous Palazzo Borromeo, surrounded by spectacular Italian gardens arranged on ten terraces. Not far away, Isola dei Pescatori(or Superiore), the only one not belonging to the Borromeo family, is an ancient fishing village still inhabited, with typical restaurants, picturesque views, and a lively traditional atmosphere. Further out, opposite Pallanza, lies Isola Madre, the largest of the three: a botanical paradise famous for its English garden, enlivened by rare plants and free-roaming peacocks, and for its elegant 16th-century palace.
INFORMATION
All three islands are part of the municipality of Stresa and are easily accessible by lake. You can embark from several locations:Maccagno and Luino on the Lombard shore, or from Verbania-Intra, connected to Laveno by ferry (here are the opening times). A fascinating and panoramic way to discover the beauty of Lake Maggiore and spend a day exploring art, nature, and history.
Info: https://www.navigazionelaghi.it/biglietti-e-orari-lago-maggiore/
