What are the top things to do on Lake Maggiore?

The most appealing activities frequently depend on individual preferences and the time of year.

Lake Maggiore offers a refined blend of natural beauty and aristocratic elegance. A primary focus for any discerning traveler should be the Borromean Islands: Isola Bella, with its Baroque palace and terraced gardens, and Isola Madre, renowned for its botanical park and historic villa. These islands are not merely attractions but immersive experiences into Italian aristocratic history and horticultural artistry.

Beyond the islands, the Botanical Gardens of Villa Taranto in Verbania are a horticultural masterpiece, showcasing thousands of plant species from around the world. The elegant lakeside town of Stresa serves as an ideal base, offering scenic promenades and connections to the islands and other points of interest, particularly when staying in one of the sophisticated luxury villas on Lake Maggiore that capture the lake’s timeless elegance. Truly appreciating Lake Maggiore’s distinct character requires discerning choices, much like the meticulous personal curation SopranoVillas applies to ensure every villa in its portfolio meets exacting standards.

For panoramic vistas, ascend Mount Mottarone via cable car from Stresa, offering breathtaking views spanning seven lakes and the surrounding Alps. A visit to the hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso, dramatically clinging to a cliff face, provides a unique cultural and spiritual perspective. Engaging a local expert for a private boat tour can also unlock hidden coves and offer a deeper appreciation of the lake’s serene grandeur.

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“Perfect Villa”

SopranoVillas found us the perfect Villa in Tuscany for an extended family vacation that met all our important check list items. Beyond the perfect property, they also assisted us in arranging for a private chef for memorable dining experiences al fresco in our private and unique setting. The Villa showcased Tuscany in all it’s glory.

R. Patterson Jackson – Jul 2026

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Clear communications, an outstanding villa with incredible views and in home support. Easy to work with. Highly recommend.

Gregory Simpson – Jun 2026

“Incredible view and villa for small wedding”

We had our small wedding at Villa Conti Galgani Sarteano Tuscany and it was amazing. The villa has been completely renovated- it’s modern while showcasing the heritage of the building (think new appliances, beautifully decorated rooms, with sunken stone bathrooms, marble bathrooms, marble stairs, an indoor and an outdoor pool, amazing outdoor undercover terrace), and the photos don’t do the view justice. The host was amazing, very kind and helpful. We booked through Soprano Villas- they were also very responsive, helpful, professional and made it a seamless booking, checkin and check out process. I’d highly recommend for any holiday or if you’re planning a small event.

Chelsey Bowd – May 2026

“We had an incredible time at Manduria Design Villa, it…”

We had an incredible time at Manduria Design Villa, it might be the most beautiful, cozy place we’ve ever stayed. The peaceful quiet location in the middle of vineyards was beautiful, yet just 3 minutes by car to the sea and many beaches. We really appreciated that the property had two fully equipped houses, main one and a smaller one, which worked perfectly for our family (including parents, a young couple, and a small child). The garden was like a little paradise full of places to relax and play games. The whole family found something to enjoy, from cozy corners for reading or napping, outside kitchen and grill, to games like pétanque, badminton, and even inflatables for the little one, all thoughtfully prepared by the hosts. The swimming pool was large and perfect, we spent hours there every day. In the morning, we picked fresh fruit in the garden, and in the evening, we enjoyed local Primitivo wine on the rooftop under the stars. The whole villa was well-designed, and everything felt really welcoming. The hosts, Isabella and Thomas were absolutely wonderful. A kind, smiling, and friendly couple made us feel at home right away, had everything ready for us. Whatever we needed, they were there for us, so helpful and warm-hearted.

Natalia Rau – Sep 2025

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“Villa Orsi is a truly magnificent home. It is difficult…”

Villa Orsi is a truly magnificent home. It is difficult to find the best descriptive adjectives to describe the well preserved beauty of this villa. It was a step back into a beautiful part of history and, yet, we had any modern convenience we may have needed. You could immediately tell the total concern the owner has to insure that the villa is well maintained and well equipped to make any group staying there feel they are in a special and unique place. The villa itself is truly outstanding. The pictures we all looked at before we booked the villa are extremely good. But, when we arrived at the villa, we really felt the beauty that the villa radiates! The extremely large 3,400 square meter park consisting of several wonderful gardens with a collection of trees, bushes, flowers (and a pool !) made us feel as if we had our own private park! Our family was fortunate to spend a magical week there. The location on Lake Maggiore is perfect. We rarely used a car. We walked, we took the ferry, we found plenty of family entertainment right at the villa. We enjoyed meals on the covered back porch and we enjoyed expresso in the mornings and wine and cheese in the afternoons. It was a short walk to some excellent restaurants and a short walk to lake activities and a tennis court. Our group ranged from age 8 to age 79 and all ages were thoroughly entertained. Since Villa Orsi is located in the small village of Cannero Riviera, we all felt we experienced a very beautiful part of Italy.

Pat Martin – Sep 2025

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