Lake Maggiore like a local: 7 authentic experiences to do

Are you looking for valuable authentic tips for visiting Lake Maggiore like a local? This jewel of Northern Italy, nestled between Piedmont, Lombardy, and Switzerland, boasts a wealth of stunning artistic and architectural treasures. Renowned for its lush botanical gardens, breathtaking landscapes, and historic mansions, Lake Maggiore is rich in captivating destinations along its shores. Picturesque villages and charming towns, like Verbania, gem of Lake Maggiore, serve as gateways to the magnificent alpine scenery. Tourists passionate about outdoor activities can engage in unique experiences—connecting with nature while enjoying hiking, water sports, and cycling.

Would you like to visit Lake Maggiore like a local to discover its more secret side outside the classic itineraries chosen by those who decide to spend a weekend or holiday in these magnificent territories? In addition to the most famous destinations, you can appreciate enchanting corners of nature, magnificent medieval castles, ancient hermitages built in the 12th century, magnificent noble palaces, fairy-tale Walser villages, and splendid national parks.

Travelers who embark on a tour of Lago Maggiore off the beaten path, experiencing the area like a local, will be captivated by its many wonders. There are countless opportunities and attractions to explore, showcasing unique locations that are sure to delight. Regardless of the season you choose for your holiday, you'll discover hidden corners and undiscovered gems that will enchant you. In addition to the architectural, historical, and natural beauty, the mysteries and legends of popular tradition add magic to its.

Lake Maggiore is also favored by people interested in religious tourism, thanks to the presence of ancient monasteries where they can meditate and immerse themselves in spirituality within idyllic oases of calmness and contemplation.

Visiting Lake Maggiore like a local means taking part in cultural events, festivals, and historical re-enactments, among ancient crafts and antique costumes.

Would you like to admire the magnificent murals that evoke the atmosphere of the masterpieces of the seventh art set along the shores of the lake? Strolling through the alleys of Arcumeggia, you will be mesmerized by delightful paintings.

Among the marvelous historical reenactments, we suggest:

• Maccagno Imperiale

• A throwback in Baveno

Would you like to visit Lake Maggiore like a local? Take advantage of the ticket that Visit Italy offers its readers to take part in an exciting Hop-on Hop-off boat tour to discover Isola Bella and the picturesque Island of Fishermen.

The beaches along the shores of Lake Maggiore are well-known among outdoor enthusiasts who love sports and nature. They feature a variety of bays, inlets, and coves that are perfect for relaxing in the summer warmth. For those seeking a quieter and more authentic experience, there are secluded spots where you can appreciate the area's natural beauty in peace.

Visiting the cosy and lovely town of Laveno Mombello, nestled between the crystal-clear waters of the lake and the surrounding green mountains, you will find idyllic places to recharge your batteries in complete relaxation in contact with the majesty of nature.

Cerro, which will enchant you with its fabulous landscape, is one of the most special beaches: the golden hues of the sand, the intense colours of the vegetation, and the hypnotic lapping of the placid waves stand out. The more adventurous can reach Le Madonnine beach to contemplate the wild nature of this cliff-protected cove.

In Ceresolo you will find a quiet corner of relaxation, situated in a delightful bay, particularly suitable for those who wish to enjoy some lightheartedness. Many of these beaches are free and they don't offer a wide range of services and facilities typical of better-known and more crowded destinations. However, they are excellent for rediscovering one's psychophysical well-being, toning up, and purifying oneself of stress.

• Laveno Mombello

• Cerro

• Spiaggia Le Madonnine

• Ceresolo

The abundance of lush green areas in the vicinity of Lake Maggiore offers the opportunity to dive into in pristine sceneries and explore the wonders like a local inhabitant. The many national parks and protected reserves are precious oases for those who wish to contemplate the wilderness. The Val Grande National Park spans an impressive area of 15 hectares, bordered by the Val Cannobina, Lake Maggiore, Val d'Ossola, and Val Vigezzo.

It is a treasure chest that preserves rare botanical endemism, such as the tulip tree and the alpine columbine. Moreover, it is possible to spot chamois, foxes, roe deer, eagles, deers, the dipper, and the black grouse. You will be mesmerised by the teeming vegetation, which characterises the landscape, dominated by broad-leaved trees, beeches, conifers, and alpine meadows.

Another habitat of enormous value for the conservation of Verbano's flora and fauna species is the Fondotoce nature reserve, made iconic by the famous American actor Rock Hudson in one of his film masterpieces, inspired by Hemingway's novel. Due to its remarkable ecological role, the rushes have been protected since 1990.

This wetland is home to an impressive diversity of species, including pike, carp, grebes, ospreys, mallards, great crested newts, marsh turtles, badgers, foxes, rabbits, and weasels. Mountain bikers can admire this paradise along the extensive network of cycle paths from which to contemplate this triumph of biodiversity.

• Parco Nazionale della Val Grande

• Riserva naturale di Fondotoce

Do you enjoy trekking, photography, and outdoor activities? We also recommend the Macugnana Fauna Oasis, located in the Anzasca Valley on the foothills of Monte Rosa. It is a very suitable destination for those who prefer hiking in the mountains to discover their wilder and more adventurous side. One of the wonders of the area is the Belvedere glacier, which can be reached by taking chairlifts with due care.

Starting from Macugnana, you could go to the suggestive Lake of the Fairies, a charming place full of magic. Located in Quarazza Valley, it will surprise you with its emerald green hues. Although it is not of natural origin, as it is the result of the construction of a dam, it enchants visitors with its aura of enchantment, to which the legend of the gnomes that have taken up residence in the Guia mine also contributes. They provide the fairies with the gold they need to make the sophisticated embroidery of their clothes in exchange for delicious blueberry and blackberry jams.

Another itinerary for enjoying magnificent panoramic views of Lake Maggiore, the Borromean Islands, and nearby villages is the Chestnut Path. It winds from Belgirate to Stresa through lush forests, rural landscapes, and ancient mule tracks. Slow trekkers can choose the route that best suits their walking pace.

You could embark on an exciting trekking route linking Lake Maggiore and Lake Delio, an enchanting basin of glacial origin located at the foot of Monte Borgna at an altitude of 1,000 meters, to discover the lesser-known attractions of these territories. Starting from Maccagno and heading towards Campagnano, you will walk along fascinating mule tracks and meticulously maintained ancient sheep tracks through dense forests, hills, and meadows. 

• Macugnana Fauna Oasis

• Belvedere glacier

• Lake of the Fairies

• Chestnut Path

• Trekking route between Lake Maggiore and Lake Delio

Another unmissable destination to explore the most authentic Lake Maggiore is the Lagoni di Mercurago Park, located inland and stretching between Arona, Dormelletto, Comignago, and Oleggio Castello. Are you passionate about history and archaeology? The site preserves invaluable artifacts from the Bronze Age, and Roman civilizations. It features Roman domus, dugouts, tools, and ceramic artifacts, as well as a fascinating pile-dwelling village. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2012, this location offers an incredible journey through time.

This captivating natural area boasts a network of scenic paths that meander through lush pastures, vibrant forests, serene marshes, unique peat bogs, and thriving wetlands. You can enjoy pleasant moments of leisure by running, horse riding, cycling, and admiring beautiful landscapes that preserve ecosystems and species typical of the varied marshland and aquatic flora and fauna.

•  Lagoni di Mercurago Park

The ancient villages that line the shores, each rich with centuries of history, beautifully enhance the unique picture-postcard views. Add Cannero Riviera to your itinerary, a picturesque destination in Verbano Cusio Ossola, nestled at the slope of Mount Morissolo and one of unmissable places on lago Maggiore.

For people who are planning a journey to visit lake Maggiore like a local, it is an Eden in which to indulge in a wonderful holiday of tranquillity and a more human-scale pace of life. The ancient castles built between the 11th and 12th centuries by the House of Mazzardi are one of its attractions. To explore Cannero Riviera like a local, don't miss the enchanting Square of the Frescoes, one of the pearls of the old town centre. The walls of the lovely parish house have been admirably decorated with frescoes painted in the 1980s by Enzo Tipaldi, illustrating some of the most iconic and significant events in local history.

Cannero can also be an interesting starting point for a tour of the neighbouring areas, where you will find other destinations that retain the charm of places that seem suspended in time. Oggiogno is a charming hamlet furrowed by winding streets and medieval arches. It's adorned with elegant 19th-century patrician villas: a symbolic highlight is the centuries-old Terrieri wine press, which stands out as a milestone of ancient agricultural traditions.

Travelling along the Piedmontese shore towards Switzerland, you can reach Cannobio, a gem shaped by the stratification of epochs, where medieval styles and alleyways, churches with Baroque architecture, and Renaissance buildings blend. The village maintains its identity, traditions, and rich cultural, and artistic heritage. One of the distinctive features of these jewels of The Lake Maggiore area is the captivating atmosphere created by the reflections of the surrounding hills in the crystal-clear waters. You could stop at a trattoria on the lakeshore, enhanced by the view of the noble palaces in the background and the fishermen's cottages while savouring delicious local cuisine.

• Cannero Riviera

• Oggiogno

• Cannobio

Our tour of discovery of the most secret, authentic, and lesser-known wonders of Lake Maggiore now takes us to some irresistible delicacies of the exquisite local gastronomy. What captivates us is the unique blend of traditional lake-side recipes and traditional mountain cuisine. The uniqueness of this area is also evident in the syncretism of traditions and cultures, which is reflected in their gastronomy. Strolling through Stresa, you can discover charming inns and restaurants where you can enjoy delicious dishes featuring lake fish, such as perch and lavaret.

As you explore the surrounding area, be sure to try some authentic local specialties, including salami from the Ossola Valley and aromatic chestnut honey. When it comes to wines, we recommend Nebbiolo and Erbaluce.

The Borromean Islands, a treasure trove of natural and architectural wonders, offer delightful specialties such as agnolotti pasta with fish and the iconic Coimo bread cake, a traditional dish from the Vigezzo Valley. Heading towards the Verban area, the soused trout arouses our curiosity. It consists of a marinated lake fish flavored with vinegar and onion marinade, while polenta uncia is enriched by delicious melted cheese. In the inland area, instead, the boiled meats, game, and delicious risottos stand out.

Visiting the stalls of the historical market in Luino, which takes place every Wednesday, you will find local products and culinary specialties, including missultin, made from dried local fish and fried bleaks.

One of the highlights of the varied local cuisine is the desserts. In the majestic scenery of Vigezzo and Ossola Valley, you could take a break and taste the crescentin, a tempting rye bread enriched with walnuts, sultanas, and figs. While visiting the villages near the lake, treat yourself to a stop in one of the hundred stoic restaurants to try the so-called fugasine di Mergozzo and the delicious Little Daisies biscuits decorated with hazelnuts and almonds.

• Visit lake Maggiore come un local: Stresa

• Visit lake Maggiore come un local: Val d'Ossola

• Visit lake Maggiore come un local: Val Vigezzo

• Borromean Islands

• Verbano

• Historical market Luino

Would you prefer to have an exciting experience exploring the beautiful locations around Lake Maggiore like a local? When you visit the picturesque towns and fascinating villages, you will discover a rich and distinctive handicraft tradition that will surprise you with valuable artifacts and admirable artistic works crafted with wisdom, flair, and creativity. 

Workshops, markets, and exhibitions will welcome you, showcasing masterpieces that result from talent and passion while introducing you to ancient techniques passed down through the centuries. You will discover a remarkable souvenir that represents a part of the invaluable cultural heritage of skilled masters and artists who safeguard and pass down a remarkable wealth of knowledge.

Refined textiles, precious ceramics decorated with traditional motifs from the Laveno Mombello area, religious sculptures, wood carvings typical of the Ossola and Vigezzo valleys, artistic glassware from the Verbano Cusio Ossola area, ornamental objects and wrought iron utensils are some of the magnificent products of excellence that you will be able to appreciate by following a splendid itinerary of authentic, original and unique experiences.

• Laveno Mombello

• Val d’Ossola

• Val Vigezzo

• Verbano Cusio Ossola

Among the best cities for a wonderful stay on Lake Maggiore is the elegant and enchanting Stresa, one of the most famous and refined destinations. It will mesmerize you with its ancient, opulent historical villas and spectacular views of the Borromean Islands. 

If you prefer a quieter, less crowded destination, Baveno, Luino, Arona, Cannobio, Verbania, Mergozzo, and Angera are ideal choices. They can be excellent starting points for fantastic tours to discover the jewels that dot the Verbano area.

Admire splendid secret gardens and sumptuous historic villas and explore the wonders of Stresa with a Visit Italy ticket.

Exploring the surroundings of the marvelous Lake Maggiore unveils hidden treasures and breathtaking gems that exude a unique charm.

Some highlights include the Holy Mountain of Ghiffa, the Fort of Orino, the Passerella di Cardara, and the Path of the Furnaces. Additionally, you can visit 19th-century villas in Meina and the picturesque hamlets of Ghevio and Silvera, each featuring fascinating historic buildings.

Locals living in the beautiful resorts around Lake Maggiore embrace their free time by taking long, reflective walks through the historic village centers, exploring scenic paths, and trekking through lush forests and national parks, all in harmony with the most authentic nature.

They prefer outdoor sports, including cycling, sailing, and rowing, and enjoy themselves at festivals and patron saint's celebrations. They love to attend concerts held in the gardens of historic villas during the summer and enjoy the slow pace of life in small towns.