This is another installment of Marilena’s Travel Diaries, giving personal insight to her wonderful trips taken across the Bel Paese. If you wish to see each chapter of Marilena’s travel story the follow the link HERE. Should you instead wish to learn more of what we at Italy with Class offer in this particular region, get in touch via email and the team will help right away.
Lake Orta, a small Alpine Lake in Piedmont, looks nothing less than a fairytale setting of a bygone era. Its blue waters shimmer in the sunlight as the magnificent surrounding hills are reflected on its surface and the charming island of San Giulio emerges out of its center.
Lesser known and less touristic compared to its larger cousins, Lake Como and Lake Maggiore, Lake Orta preserves its original antique charm. It is dotted with picturesque villages and harbors where you can enjoy strolling down elegant cobblestone streets lined with charming, rustic buildings.
This beautiful glacial lake, whose surroundings display a vibrant mix of both history and modernity, is definitely a gem worth visiting. It would prove to be a paradise for all those looking to get lost in the beauty and tranquility of one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy.
A Visit to Orta San Giulio
When we set foot in Orta San Giulio, a little town on the shore of Lake Orta, we first stopped to take in its beauty and charm. The clear, blue waters of Lake Orta contrasting the green of the surrounding hills, the warm and welcoming colors of the town buildings along with the typical Italian cobblestone streets: it was a feast for our eyes and our souls.
We strolled through this medieval village, as we visited Piazza Motta, the town’s central square and the Broletto, a historic building considered one of the city’s symbols. This was a journey back in time intermittent with modern charms as we passed by the town’s craft stores, restaurants and delightful cafes.
Our next stop was Villa Bossi, the Town Hall of Orta San Giulio, which was built in the 17th century. This magnificent building with lush gardens that are reflected in the waters of Lake Orta is a much-requested location for romantic, picture-perfect weddings. As we entered the gardens, we got to feast our eyes on some unforgettable views of the lake and the spectacular island of San Giulio that faces Orta San Giulio.
Additional Experience: During your visit to Lake Orta, it is definitely worth taking a stroll around the charming little island of San Giulio. Visit the island’s basilica and walk down the street known as ‘The way of Silence and Meditation’, which encircles the entire island. The island’s peaceful atmosphere makes it a great place for those looking for a quick meditative escape.
Luxury and Gastronomic Indulgence
Our stay in Orta San Giulio resulted in us discovering the very best that the town has to offer in terms of gastronomic delights and luxurious stays:
L’Acqua (sister property of Villa Crespi): We dined at the unique Bistrot of L’Acqua that is placed on the edge of Lake Orta. Lovely views of the lake, a youthful ambience and food prepared by a celebrity chef: what else could you possibly need?
Villa Crespi: Our overnight stay was at Villa Crespi, a magnificent Moorish-style villa that overlooks Lake Orta. Luxurious and peculiar due to its fairy-tale-like atmosphere, staying here will take you on a journey to distant times and faraway places.
Returning to Rome
And so ends another of Marilena’s Italian excursions. Whilst her journey through Lake Orta is over, the area lays in wait for new explorers yearning to take in its unique charm. Through our strong connection of contacts in the region, Italy with Class can help tailor your very own Lake Orta vacation, from luxury accommodations and wonderful restaurants to hidden gems and unforgettable experiences. So, what are you waiting for?
