1. Where dreams come true – Lake Orta 

A small jewel hidden in the corner of north-eastern Italy, Lake Orta welcomes visitors who drive the scenic road flanking its banks with charm in droves. The shimmering light changing as the day goes by, this small lake is a confection of authentic allure.

Reach captivating San Giulio island with a short, dreamy ferry ride from medieval Orta San Giulio, its Piazza Motta seemingly founded to give a sublime bird’s eye view on the place. On the island itself lies one of its most evocative experiences: the Path of Silence. This contemplative walk circles the monastery, inviting visitors to slow down and reconnect through discreet messages dedicated to reflection and inner calm. It’s an experience that feels deeply aligned with today’s luxury traveler—where true privilege is found in stillness, authenticity, and a rare sense of peace.

Walk along its alleys to capture lovely glimpses of the water and make your way to the Sacro Monte di San Francesco: this old pilgrimage site is part of a series of nine sacred Alpine Mountains across Piedmont and Lombardy and can be reached via twenty small chapels. The views from the top are mesmerizing, combined with a genteel atmosphere that makes this tranquil expanse of water so captivating. It comes as no surprise that such serene surroundings inspired learned souls to create some of Italy’s most iconic brands: Omegna, to the north of the lake, is home to prestigious Alessi, Bialetti and Lagostina companies, parading Italian artistry and design across the world.

A special travel tip: experience Lake Orta at its most magical by staying overnight and visiting San Giulio Island early in the morning or at sunset, when the day visitors have left. Pair it with a private guide for a deeper, more meaningful discovery of the island and the Sacro Monte—transforming a simple visit into a truly intimate and memorable experience

3. Wellness starts from nature

Surrounded by nature, we acquire renewed energies and feel in tune with ourselves, enjoying the dazzling colours of spring and the serene atmosphere created by plants and flowers. Go one step further and think about doing yoga in a lovely garden overlooking the lake, taking part in a meditation class surrounded by flowers in bloom or listening to a choir singing. These activities are all possible at Villa Taranto in Verbania, the exceptional garden created by the Scottish captain Neal McEacharn in 1931 and welcoming visitors with its rare botanical species, their seeds coming from all over the world.  Colourful shades and scented shrubs paint a rainbow symphony that nourishes the soul, the blue of the lake in the background, towering peaks in the distance. A blissful sight that can also be found at Parco Pallavicino in Stresa or the Giardino Alpino on the hill above it, along with the many gardens that adorn the beautiful palaces overlooking the lake. The mild climate contributed to the creation of such gems, in a triumph of colours and flowers that is hard to forget.

A special travel tip: plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the most enchanting light, and consider a private guided walk through the gardens to truly appreciate their botanical richness and hidden details. For a more elevated experience, combine it with a wellness moment—yoga or meditation surrounded by nature—transforming a simple visit into a deeply restorative and memorable escape

5. Magic islands: the castles of Cannero

Located in the north-eastern stretch of the lake, shortly before reaching Switzerland, the castles of Cannero are truly evocative. Set on two rocky islets amid pure waters, these ancient fortified complexes can now be visited with private guided tours, setting off from Cannobio. Following a ten-year restoration campaign, the site is now considered a museum of itself, meaning you’ll sense history as you wander around the small site, embellished by its pristine waters – so pure that they have been awarded a Blue Flag. The 1519 fortress, commissioned by the Borromeo family, was added to an existing 15th c. tower, known as “Malapaga”, erected to control the lands by five local brothers. Back then, the area was subject to pirates and bandits, so visiting the place means feeling in touch with the past, while you admire the shoreline from a different viewpoint. The magic lives on!

A special travel tip: elevate the experience with a private boat excursion timed for late afternoon, when the light softens and the waters turn almost silvery. Pair it with a curated visit led by a knowledgeable guide, and perhaps a discreet aperitivo on board—transforming a historical discovery into a truly memorable and immersive moment on the lake.