Explore the surroundings

Villa Taranto

This may be the most famous botanical garden in northern Italy with a heritage of more than 20.000 varieties and species of particular botanical value. In 1931, Scottish Captain Neil McEacharn started collecting and acclimatising plants from all over the world in this corner of Italy that reminded him of his native Scotland. 

Discover more

Museums

Renowned for its rich collections, cultural centre for the entire Province, the Museo del Paesaggio is divided in three locations.In Pallanza we find the 18th Century Palace Viani-Dugnani, which houses exhibitions of paintings, sculpture, photography, graphics and archeology.In Pallanza there is also the 15th Century Innocenti-Biumi Palace, dedicated to religion, art and popular culture while the third part of the museum, the Casa Ceretti in Intra, hosts impromptu exhibitions.

Discover more

Lago Maggiore Express

One of the nicest excursions using public transport, to discover Lake Maggiore and its surrounding valleys! Departure from Stresa (or another location on Lake Maggiore) by train to Domodossola, the “capital” of the Ossola Valley.
The adventure continues with a scenic ride on the narrow-gauge train of the Centovalli (a Hundred Valleys); a bridge between Italy and Switzerland that, across the Italian Vigezzo Valley and the Swiss Centovalli, brings you back to Lake Maggiore in Locarno.

Discover more

Verbania

Verbania, chief town of the Province, is a delightful location on the western shore of Lake Maggiore. It is divided between several towns, each with their own character and charm, that draws the attention of thousands of tourists every year.

Discover more

Locarno

The Mediterranean vegetation, characterised by palm trees and lemons, grows in the centre of Locarno giving it its particular charm. The heart is the Piazza Grande, famous for the Film Festival which is held here every year in August. The narrow streets of the old town all lead to the piazza, location for numerous events throughout the year.

Discover more

Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso Ballaro

The Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso Ballaro is one of the most magical places on Lake Maggiore, and is easily reachable by ferry from Stresa. This enchanting complex, consists of several buildings: the small church and the convents.

Discover more