Stresa and the Borromean Islands

Arrive independently in the lakeside town of Stresa and settle into your 4-star hotel.

Devote the rest of the day to relaxing, strolling along the lakefront or exploring the charming old town at your own pace.

Dinner is free this evening-a great opportunity to discover one of Stresa's cozy little restaurants.
Overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast at the hotel, meet your local guide at 9:45 am in the lobby.
You will board a private speedboat from the nearby pier—reserved exclusively for our guests—for a full day dedicated to discovering the beautiful Borromean Islands, one of the most popular Stresa day trips.

The first stop isIsola Madre, with its magnificent English gardens and the historic palace of the Borromeo family, rich in charm and history.

Continue to picturesque Fishermen's Island, where a guided walk through the narrow streets of the charming, still inhabited village, rich in authentic traditions, awaits you.
You will enjoy a delicious lunch at a typical lakeside restaurant.

In the afternoon, visit the famous Isola Bella with its spectacular Baroque-style Borromeo Palace and beautiful terraced Italian gardens overlooking the lake.

At the end of the tours, return to the hotel and end the guided part of the day.

In the evening, dinner at a traditional restaurant within walking distance of the hotel.
Overnight stay in Stresa.

After breakfast at the hotel, meet your local guide at 9:45 a.m. and depart by private minivan for a scenic drive (about 40 minutes) to Lake Orta, one of Italy's hidden jewels, as part of one of the Stresa guided tours.

The day begins with a visit to the Sacro Monte di Orta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on a scenic hilltop. Stroll along the paths surrounded by greenery and discover beautifully preserved chapels dedicated to the life of St. Francis of Assisi, adorned with realistic statues and vivid frescoes. From here you can take in breathtaking views of the lake and the mysterious Island of San Giulio.

Continue by minivan to the medieval heart of Orta San Giulio, listed among “The Most Beautiful Villages in Italy.” Explore its charming cobblestone alleys, small stone squares and admire the historic Palazzo della Comunità from the outside.

Lunch will be served in a traditional restaurant, with typical regional dishes.

In the afternoon, board a private speedboat for a short crossing to San Giulio Island. Visit the striking Basilica of Saints Gervasius and Protasius (subject to any ongoing celebrations) and be enveloped in its atmosphere of art, mystery and legend. Finish with a meditative walk along the enchanting “Via del Silenzio,” which encircles the entire island.

Return by boat to Orta and continue by minivan back to Stresa.
Free evening and overnight stay at the hotel.

After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a relaxing morning in Stresa. Depending on your departure time, take advantage of a final walk along the lakefront or explore the lovely old town once again with the help of a Stresa travel guide.

Check-out from the hotel and end of services.