The Best of Lake Maggiore Walking Holiday

Italy’s second largest lake after Lake Garda, the shimmering Lake Maggiore is adored for its beautiful scenery, delicious food, and postcard-worthy towns. Visit the picturesque streets of Orta San Giulio and experience sunny shoreside strolls around Lake Orta and Lake Como, plus wow-worthy walks in the foothills of Monte Rosa and the Anzasca Valley. You can also take an optional boat ride to the Borromean Islands, the most famous of which is the enchanting Isola Bella, which translates as 'beautiful island.
What you’ll love
- Relaxing by Lake Como, one of the most beautiful lakes in the world
- Discovering Lake Orta
- Walking in the foothills of Monte Rosa, one of Italy’s highest mountains
- The option to take a train to Milan or a boat to the Borromean Islands
What’s included
- Return flights from London Heathrow, including baggage and transfers (flights available from other airports - price may vary)
- A choice of 2 guided walks per day with local leaders (on walking days)
- HF Holidays Tour Manager
- 7 nights' accommodation in Pallanza
- 7 breakfasts & 7 dinners
- All in-destination transport
Trip Notes
Easy to download as a PDF, our trip notes provide detailed information for every holiday. Please click below to find the trip notes for your departure date.
Gallery
All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.
Welcome to Lake Maggiore. Once you arrive, settle in and get acquainted with where you’ll stay for the week.
The Chestnut Route as it is known locally. We follow old mule trails dating back to Roman times, passing pretty churches, small hamlets, and the zoological gardens of Villa Pallavicino.
Option 1 - Chestnut Walk
Distance: 5 miles (8km)
Ascent: 800ft (240m)
Descent: 900ft (280m)
From the shore, we’ll walk up to the Romanesque church of Santa Maria to see the views and the frescoes. Then following a mule track, you’ll see how farming used to be before we arrive at the church of Saint Paolo. Step through a chestnut forest, passing the ruins of Sanin Albino, to the village of Passera and the gardens of Villa Pallavicino.
Option 2 - Chesnut Walk via Calogna
Distance: 7½ miles (12km)
Ascent: 1,300ft (400m)
Descent: 1,150ft (360m)
Taking the same route as option one until the church of Saint Paolo, we’ll then venture off on another mule trail uphill to the hamlet of Calogna. Crossing moorland to a beech forest, we’ll pass by old shepherd huts while glimpsing the lake down below. Once we reach the village of Magognino, we’ll start descending through Passera to the gardens of Villa Pallavicino.
Suna is a charming medieval village linked by arched passageways. Cavandone with its’ breathtaking views and traditional stone houses has a centuries old yew tree as the symbol of the village. Verbania is described as the gem of Lake Maggiore for its splendid views and historic villas.
Lake Mergozzo is a small, yet very beautiful lake situated at the beginning of the Ossola Valley. It takes its name from the small town of Mergozzo located on the northern tip of the lake. The areas on these walks are known for medieval villages, stunning villas, chestnut tree groves and ancient mule tracks
Option 1 - Suna to Cavandone
Distance: 4miles (6.5km)
Ascent: 900ft (260m)
Descent: 1,150ft (360m)
We start from Suna from where we’ll follow an ancient trail past the chestnut wood and medieval tower, climbing further for impressive views of Lake Maggiore below. At Cardavone, you’ll see a 400-year-old yew tree.
Option 2 - Lake Mergozzo
Distance: 7½miles (12km)
Ascent: 1,200ft (360m)
Descent: 1,200ft (360m)
We’ll take the bus to Verbania to set off on a path that hugs the eastern shore, passing through chestnut woods and meadows that open out onto views over Lake Mergozzo. Stop for lunch in Mergozzo before taking the Sentiero Azzuro (Blue Path), pausing at Montorfano for far-reaching views of Lake Maggiore and the Toce River. We’ll visit the Romanesque church before descending to Verbania where we’ll catch the bus back.
Lake Como is the third largest lake in Italy and is best known for its stunning views and romantic villas. Its popularity stretches back to the Romans who built roads and other infrastructure making it an important trade route. Roman aristocrats and writers were drawn to its shore for the elegant life. Looking down over the south-western end of Lake Como, is Torno a favourite with visitors for its famous villas including the 16th century Villa Pliniana, Villa Taverna with its magnificent gardens, and Villa Mia. Monte Piatto is one of the mountain communities above Torno
Option 1 - Torno village
Distance: 3 miles (4.5 km)
Ascent: 650 feet (200 m)
We travel to Como by coach and then take a boat across the lake to the pretty hamlet of Torno. We walk through the old village up quaint alleyways arriving at the upper level of Torno where our hike begins. Following ancient mule-tracks we cross a Roman bridge and circle around old settlements winding our way back to Torno where you can take a break with a coffee or delicious ice cream before we board the boat back over the lake where our coach will be waiting
Option 2 - Monte Piatto
Distance: 7 miles (11 km)
Ascent: 1475 feet (450 m)
We travel to Como by coach and then take a boat across the lake to the pretty hamlet of Torno.
Walking to the top of the village our hike is along mule trails through forested areas to the top of Monte Piatto (flat mountain). Here we find the church of Santa Elisabetta stands at the highest point. Built in the 16th century by nuns from the Sacred Heart order of Varese. Nearby is the ‘Pietra Pendula’ a giant mushroom like boulder resting on limestone rock which is believed to have been transported here by glacial action more than 2 million years ago. We take a different trail back to Torno passing the pasture of Piazzago through a wood and across a Roman bridge. On arrival back at the village enjoy the views of the lake with a well-earned drink or delicious ice cream.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Lake Maggiore by taking a hop-on, hop-off boat from Pallanza to one or more of the Borromean Islands. The largest is Isola Madre considered to be a botanical garden on water. Here you will find rare plants from around the world and at the highest point the elegant Palazzo Borromeo, a family home from 1563, while today it is a museum. The world-famous Isola Bella has an Italian-style baroque garden with superimposed terraces and grottoes, statues, obelisks and two water-wheel towers. To add to this astonishing display white peacocks spread their tails as they saunter around the island. If you are a member of the Royal Horticultural Society of UK, the gardens on both islands are open to you free of charge. Don’t forget to pack your membership card to enjoy these stunning gardens.
If you would like to go further afield and don’t mind an early start, trains travel from Pallanza to Milan a centre of fashion, design, art, architecture and culture where history and modernity sit comfortably side by side.
Today we head over to Lake Maggiore’s little sister, Lake Orta. Both walks start in the hills above the lake and finish in Orta San Giulio, one of the most beautiful towns in Italy.
Option 1 - Armeno to Orta San Guilio 1
Distance: 6miles (9km)
Ascent: 450ft (140m)
Descent: 1,150ft (360m)
We’ll start in the town of Armeno following trails through farms and meadows, crossing a Roman bridge, and entering another village called Armeno. We’ll head down through lush parkland to Vacciago, once a rich retreat away from the lake. We’ll descend to Legro and from here to the lake with time to explore Orta San Giulio.
Option 2 - Armeno to Orta San Guilio 2
Distance: 8½miles (14km)
Ascent: 700ft (220m)
Descent: 1,450ft (460m)
Following option one from Armeno to Armeno, we then ascend to Monte Mesma and the Franciscan convent of the same name. We’ll get a wonderful view of Lake Orta, then after circling the small peak we’ll head down into the village of Vacciago and onto the painted village of Legro. A final descent takes us to Orta San Guilio with time to explore.
Today we head into the mountains and the Anzasca Valley to Macunaga, home to the Walser people. This small region still has its own language and keeps to its historic traditions. After both walks, we’ll take you to the village of Macunaga sitting below Mount Rosa.
Option 1 - Piedimulera to Castiglione
Distance: 3½miles (6km)
Ascent: 1,250ft (380m)
Descent: 500ft (160m)
We start in the pretty village of Piedimulera, which sits at the mouth of the Anzasca Valley looked over by Torre Ferreiro. Our path takes us out of town, through the valley, following the course of the Anza river. Passing chestnut woods, fruit trees, and old watercourses, we’ll see ancient settlements and traces of old trades. We’ll finish in the hamlet of Castiglione before heading to the Walser village of Macuanaga.
Option 2 - Piedimulera to Molini
Distance: 6 miles (10km)
Ascent: 1,850ft (560m)
Descent: 1,100ft (340m)
From Piedimulera we’ll follow the same route as option one. After the village of Castiglione, we’ll head along the valley and into the deep forested hills as we follow the old road with occasional glimpses of the cobalt blue torrent. We soon enter the outskirts of the village of Molini, which clings to the hillside flanked by the river. Finally, we’ll have time to explore Macuanaga.
We’ll leave Lake Maggiore for our flight back home.
Hotel Belvedere, Pallanza, Lake Maggiore
Overlooking the stunning Lake Maggiore, Hotel Belvedere offers an exquisite 4- star stay in an elegant lakefront setting. Guests enjoy easy access to Pallanza’s historic centre and the boat dock for trips to the beautiful Borromean Islands.
Essential information
It's best to be prepared for all weather conditions. To make it easier, here is a list of items you should consider packing.
Essentials
- Walking boots
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof trousers
- Insulated jacket/top
- Walking clothing
- Walking socks (plus spares)
- Sunhat
- Gloves/mitts and warm hat
- Water bottle (minimum 2 litre capacity)
- Headtorch
- High-factor sunscreen (minimum SPF 30)
- Sunglasses with a dark lens
- Rucksack (15-30 litres)
- Mobile phone
- Personal first aid kit (containing your medication, blister plasters, etc.)
- Passport
- Visa (if applicable)
- Copy of your travel insurance policy
- UK Global Health Insurance Card (formerly known as EHIC)
Recommended
- Collapsible walking poles
- Swimwear and travel towel
- Snacks
- Dry bags
- Rubbish bags
- Insect repellent
Optional extras
- Camera
- Sit mat
- Flask for hot drinks
- Durable lunch box
- Gaiters
- GPS device
All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.
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If you choose land only, you will be responsible for making your own travel arrangements, including your flights and airport transfers at your destination. Any flights booked independently will also not be covered by our ATOL license.
Date (Start - End) | Itinerary | Double / Twin Room | Single Room | Notes / Offers | Trip Notes | Book | ||
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2025 | ||||||||
03 May - 10 May 2025 7 nights |
Itinerary 2025 Flight from Manchester Airport
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Double from £1,599 pp |
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10 May - 17 May 2025 7 nights |
Itinerary 2025 Flight from London Heathrow Airport
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Double from £1,529 pp |
from £1,529 pp |
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17 May - 24 May 2025 7 nights |
Itinerary 2025 Flight from London Heathrow Airport
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from £1,529 pp |
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07 Jun - 14 Jun 2025 7 nights |
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Double from £1,679 pp |
from £1,679 pp |
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14 Jun - 21 Jun 2025 7 nights |
Itinerary 2025 Flight from London Heathrow Airport Single from £1,958 Double from £1,679 pp |
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from £1,958 |
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06 Sep - 13 Sep 2025 7 nights |
Itinerary 2025 Flight from Manchester Airport
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Double Call to Enquire
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20 Sep - 27 Sep 2025 7 nights |
Itinerary 2025 Flight from London Heathrow Airport Single from £1,908 Double from £1,629 pp |
from £1,629 pp |
from £1,908 |
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27 Sep - 04 Oct 2025 7 nights |
Itinerary 2025 Flight from London Heathrow Airport Single from £1,908 Double from £1,629 pp |
from £1,629 pp |
from £1,908 |
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04 Oct - 11 Oct 2025 7 nights |
Itinerary 2025 Flight from London Heathrow Airport Single from £1,908 Double from £1,629 pp |
from £1,629 pp |
from £1,908 |
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11 Oct - 18 Oct 2025 7 nights |
Itinerary 2025 Flight from London Heathrow Airport Single from £1,858 Double from £1,579 pp |
from £1,579 pp |
from £1,858 |
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Date (Start - End) | Itinerary | Double / Twin Room | Single Room | Notes / Offers | Trip Notes | Book | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2025 | ||||||||
03 May - 10 May 2025 7 nights |
Itinerary 2025
Single Call to Enquire
Double from £1,429 pp |
from £1,429 pp |
Call to Enquire |
Trip Notes
|
Book Now | |||
10 May - 17 May 2025 7 nights |
Itinerary 2025
Single Call to Enquire
Double from £1,429 pp |
from £1,429 pp |
Call to Enquire |
Trip Notes
|
Book Now | |||
17 May - 24 May 2025 7 nights |
Itinerary 2025
Single Call to Enquire
Double from £1,429 pp |
from £1,429 pp |
Call to Enquire |
Trip Notes
|
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07 Jun - 14 Jun 2025 7 nights |
Itinerary 2025
Single Call to Enquire
Double from £1,529 pp |
from £1,529 pp |
Call to Enquire |
Trip Notes
|
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14 Jun - 21 Jun 2025 7 nights |
Itinerary 2025 Single from £1,808 Double from £1,529 pp |
from £1,529 pp |
from £1,808 |
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06 Sep - 13 Sep 2025 7 nights |
Itinerary 2025
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Double Call to Enquire
|
Call to Enquire | Call to Enquire |
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20 Sep - 27 Sep 2025 7 nights |
Itinerary 2025 Single from £1,768 Double from £1,489 pp |
from £1,489 pp |
from £1,768 |
Trip Notes
|
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27 Sep - 04 Oct 2025 7 nights |
Itinerary 2025 Single from £1,768 Double from £1,489 pp |
from £1,489 pp |
from £1,768 |
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04 Oct - 11 Oct 2025 7 nights |
Itinerary 2025 Single from £1,758 Double from £1,479 pp |
from £1,479 pp |
from £1,758 |
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11 Oct - 18 Oct 2025 7 nights |
Itinerary 2025 Single from £1,728 Double from £1,449 pp |
from £1,449 pp |
from £1,728 |
Trip Notes
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Important information
- With flight holidays: Price includes return flights to Milan, hold baggage and airport transfers
- Independent travellers can join our airport transfers from Milan Malpensa Airport or Milan Linate airport (14 June - 21 June 2025 only) - please contact us for prices
*If you prefer to make your own travel arrangements, please ensure you’ve selected a land-only option before proceeding to book.

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