By Judy McEuen, Travel Writer
STRESA, Italy,
The Italian Lakes, a name coined for a chain of alpine lakes in Northern Italy, evoke images of picturesque lakeside vistas, pretty gardens and elegant villas – a picture-perfect backdrop for a dream romantic getaway.
Lake Maggiore is the second largest of all lakes in the area stretching from the region of Lombardy to Piemonte and spreading towards a small portion of the Swiss Alps. It is a favorite of many vacationers and usually gets a little too crowded, especially during the summer months. However, despite the crowds, a visit to the lakeside towns of Maggiore and its many attractions is well worth doing.
Easily accessible
Lago Maggiore, as it is known in Italian, is accessible by train from the major cities of Milan and Turin. So, visitors from these popular Italian cities can easily head up to the celebrated lake. Moving around the area is also not a problem. Several steamers service the lake, providing access to many interesting lakeside towns and islands. Buses also run frequently in the area.
Perhaps the most popular of all Maggiore destinations is the lakeside resort
town of Stresa . Its villas are stunning and celebrated for their stylish design and luxurious accommodation. Open balconies and picture perfect gardens are part and parcel of Stresa’s charm. There’s also the cable car facility that brings visitors to Monte Mottarone. At 4,000 feet in the air, you will be treated to spectacular views of the Alps and the neighboring lakes.
My personal favorite of all Maggiore destinations is the lakeside town of
Locarno located at the Swiss side of the lake. The Santuario della Madonna del Sasso Church perched on a steep cliff against the blue waters of the lake and the dark outline of the mountains is a splendid picture visitors will find enchanting. You also get to ride a funicular on your way to the church – an experience in itself.
Not far away from Locarno is
Valle Maggia . The drive to get there is the highlight of the trip. It will take you through meandering roads along the Maggia River through Valle Maggia and right into the Swiss Alps. The view along the way is the most scenic in the region, with glimpses of vast meadows, spectacular waterfalls and charming villages.
Romantic getaway
On your way, make a short detour to the pretty town of Ascona. Its lovely waterfront promenade, with a fantastic view of the Alps, is perfect for a laid back stroll and a romantic meal is not far away in the quaint cafes and restaurants that can be found in the area.
Finally, do not miss out on
Val Bavona where time seems to have stopped. The alpine landscape is at its most stunning in this area but what is even more remarkable are the buildings which all seem to have been made out of gleaming stone and granite.
After meandering about, head back to Locarno and cap off your day with a pleasant dinner while you witness the sunset’s beautiful display of colors against the calm waters of Lake Maggiore.
