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Lake Major

Our expert Italy

Lake Major

Lake Major Lake Major © Joana Kruse - age fotostock

The lake was given its present name as early as the Roman times because, at 41 mi long, it was bigger than the neighbouring lakes. The northern end of the lake touches Switzerland, and the remainder of the shore is shared between the still under-developed Lombard side and the Piedmont side, which has for several centuries been a rather elite tourist destination. Lake Maggiore was a common port of call during the 19th century 'Grand Tour', which made it into a meeting place for artists, writers, and musicians. It has wonderful landscapes and a particularly mild climate. The Borromeo Islands, so-called because they are located in the gulf of the same name just offshore from the towns of Stresa and Pallanza, also have a lot of charm. The best known is Isola Bella, which resembles a big boat anchored in the port. There is also Isola Madre, the largest of the islands; Isola dei Pescatori, which was traditionally devoted to fishing; and the little Isola San Giovanni, which is unfortunately closed to visitors.

Landscapes and activities

Other reasons to go

  1.   Landscapes

  2.   Towns

  3.   Enogastronomy