Lake Orta, Italy Travel Guide
Discovering Lake Orta, Italy: The Hidden Gem of the Italian Lakes
When most travelers think of the Italian lakes, names like Lake Como and Lake Garda often steal the spotlight. But nestled away in the Piedmont region of northern Italy lies Lake Orta (Lago d’Orta)- a serene, secluded, lesser-known lake that offers timeless charm, unspoiled natural beauty, and a truly authentic Italian experience.
When I mentioned visiting Lake Orta to others, everyone, aside from my cousin who lives in Milan, which is about an hour from the lake, mostly gave me blank stares. Not surprising given how much of the lake focus in Italy is on Lake Como. And understandably so. It was one of the first places I ever went to in Italy and I still remember to this day how it took my breath away. But since that visit, many years ago, Como’s tourism has really exploded making it feel a bit less exclusive and special than it once did (at least in my opinion). And, of course, you know me, whatever everyone else is doing, I have to go and do the opposite. Because once something is popular it just doesn’t have the same appeal to me. And knowing full well that Italy is home to far more lakes than just one, why settle for a crowded and over-priced one anyways? (Side note- I still love and recommend visiting Lake Como, but definitely visit in the off season. Fall is truly special there).
While Lake Orta may often be overshadowed by its neighbors, Lake Como and Lake Maggiore, don’t confuse lesser known with not worth knowing. Lake Orta offers something that those other lakes don’t- a more intimate, tranquil, authentic experience sans over-crowding and over-tourism.
In other words, take this Lake Orta travel guide as your sign and friendly reminder that there’s so much more to Italy than just Lake Como (or the Amalfi Coast and Positano, for that matter).
In my humble opinion, I truly think Lake Orta is one of Italy’s best-kept secret- a place where you can slow down, take in quiet moments of reflection and meditation, savor the local cuisine, explore the area’s rich history, be inspired by the landscape and natural beauty and enjoy the simple pleasures of Italian life. Whether you're planning a cozy fall trip, a romantic getaway, a solo retreat, a pilgrimage stop, an outdoor-focused adventure, somewhere that allows you to embrace slow travel, or simply looking to build out a northern Italy road trip, Lake Orta offers something for every traveler and definitely deserves a spot on your itinerary.
Pack your bag- the la dolce vita lake life is waiting for you.
SHORT ON TIME? HERE’S MY CLIFF NOTES guide to lake orta
WHERE TO STAY
WHERE TO EAT
FOR LUNCH- Filo e Fieno (Orta San Giulio)
FOR APERITIVO- Enoteca Re Di Coppe (wine bar, Orta San Giulio)
FOR DINNER- LA CUCINA della Darbia (Orta San Giulio)
WHAT TO DO
Explore Orta San Giulio
Visit Isola San Giulio
Hike the Sacro Monte di Orta
THE LAKE ORTA TRAVEL GUIDE
Why Lake Orta is Worth Visiting (AKA WHY IT needs to BE ON YOUR RADAR)
Lake Orta is often described as one of the most romantic and tranquil of Italy’s lakes. On one side, you have Orta San Giulio, the main lakeside village, and a perfect base for exploring the area. Across the water, the picturesque island, Isola San Giulio, adds a storybook charm with its cloistered monastery and historic streets. All around you the peaceful waters of the lake captivate and invite you into this truly special place that is surrounded by wooded hills, medieval villages, rich cultural heritage and delicious wine and food making it a truly perfect destination for travelers seeking peace, authenticity, and natural beauty.
Whether you're looking for a romantic escape, a quiet retreat, or a slow travel experience, Lake Orta does not disappoint. Here are just a few of the reasons why this Italian gem needs to be on your travel bucket list-
Fewer crowds and a more local, authentic feel than Lake Como or Lake Maggiore
Small, charming walkable towns with cobbled streets and lakeside promenades
Stunning views and sunsets over the lake (aka get your camera ready because this place is photogenic to a ‘T’)
Proximity to the Alps means its an excellent base for those who want to get in some alpine hiking and skiing
Authentic Piedmont cuisine, seasonal food experiences and the nearby Piedmont wine regions make this a foodie lovers dream
Ease to travel to; it’s about an hour from Milan and it’s even got a stop directly on the train route
Plenty of opportunities for slow travel: walking, boating, taking in nature, quiet reflection and even dedicated prayer and meditation walks
When to Visit Lake Orta
The best time to visit Lake Orta is May through October. We personally visited in October, and while it was a bit rainy and foggy (as you can see from the photos), it was also wonderfully cozy, quaint, tranquil and completely magical. While I’m sure it’s positively lovely in the spring and summer, to me, October was the perfect time to visit if you‘re looking for that quintessential cozy fall trip (and that’s coming from a girl who barely put her umbrella down the whole time, so you know I mean it). The air is crisp, but the temperatures are still mild, the weather is a bit moody and perfect for cozying up in, the foliage is bursting with color and it’s peak wine harvest season in the surrounding hills. Of course, the town is still busy during the day, but it’s far quieter than during peak summer season, making it easier to manage visiting popular sites, getting around, securing reservations, etc.
Autumn, as well as spring, offer mild weather and fewer tourists, while summer is, of course, more ideal for swimming and outdoor activities. What it ultimately comes down to is what kind of trip and experience you want to have- something focused on outdoor activities, but with a bit more crowds, or something cozy and quaint, but with a bit more rain involved.
HOW TO GET TO LAKE ORTA
Lake Orta is conveniently located from both Milan and Turin by car and is also easily accessible by train.
FROM MILAN MALPENSA AIRPORT: ~1.5 hours by car
FROM TURIN ~1.5–2 hours by car
BY TRAIN OR BUS: Regional trains connect major hubs to Orta-Miasino station. Take a train to the town of Orta-Miasino via Novara, then it’s just a short bus or taxi ride to Orta San Giulio, or wherever you are lodging.
HOW TO GET AROUND LAKE ORTA- DO YOU NEED A CAR?
The lake is compact, so if you’re headed to a hotel/property for just a few days of relaxation and you don’t plan to explore much, you can probably get away without a car, especially if you’re staying right in Orta San Giulio. However, I recommend renting a car if you want to get out and explore more nearby hiking trails, vineyards, mountains, and charming hill towns. We personally rented a car in Milan and it made exploring around the lake much easier and something we could do at our own pace.
HOW MANY DAYS TO SPEND IN LAKE ORTA
How many days to spend in Lake Orta depends on what kind of experience you want to have. If you’re really only exploring in and around Orta San Giulio and seeing the attraction highlights you can easily do that in a day. In fact, you could even make it a day trip from Milan, or if you’re staying nearby Lake Orta’s neighboring lake, Lake Maggiore. However, if you’d like to explore other towns, have time for a hike or two and take advantage of the lake’s relaxing atmosphere, you’ll want to plan for at least 2-3 nights in the area.
Where to Stay in lake orta
Depending on your preferences and priorities, there are a few things to consider when choosing accommodations in Lake Orta- location and type of property.
Lakeside in Orta San Giulio or Something Hillside and More Remote: Lakeside is lovely for walks along the wate, ease of access to attractions and restaurants and not needing a car to get around, but it can be more noisy and busy from tourists and it’s harder to explore off-the-beaten path. Something up in the hills is more peaceful and serene, a quite respite away from tourists and crowds and great for views of the lake, but can be removed from amenities such as restaurants, and definitely requires a car to get around
Boutique Inns, B&B or Villas: There are great options for each in Lake Orta, depending on if you want to go in the direction of a more exclusive experience, something quaint and homey, or something luxe.
WHERE WE STAYED
La Darbia (Orta San Giulio)
If you stay anywhere in Lake Orta, make it here. Of course, I’m biased because it’s where we stayed but it was truly an exceptional experience in every way. Tucked into the forest right above the lake, the property, which was once an agricultural settlement, now feels like an idyllic retreat in an elevated country home. Vineyard covered hills stretch before you and a serene pool overlooks the lake. The service is attentive and wonderful. The beautiful kitchen gardens offer a hint at the incredible food coming out of the restaurant. And did I mention that breakfast is included and they also have their own wine? If you’re looking for something peaceful, relaxing and truly special, I cannot recommend this property enough.
A FEW OTHER HOTELS AND B&B’S IN LAKE ORTA TO CONSIDER
LAQUA BY THE LAKE (Pettenasco)
If you’re looking for something similar to La Darbia, but right on the water, this spot is for you. Minimal, modern, secluded, it’s a idyllic place to retreat for a few days. The property includes eighteen suites and two penthouses, each with a fully stocked kitchen, and every space designed in earthy tones, woods, greens and neutrals as a nod and extension to the nature surrounding the property. There’s also an acclaimed restaurant on site that celebrates both the cuisine of Piedmont as well as that of the chef’s homeland Campania, with a menu that highlights fresh, local and seasonal ingredients.
CASA FANTINI (Pella)
An intimate boutique hotel that invites guests to rethink the concept of travel and slow down to “lake time”. Nestled amongst the trees on the shores of Lake Orta, this well-designed contemporary property offers well-appointed amentities and a relaxed environment far removed from tourists. Did I mention every room has a balcony or terrace overlooking the lake? An on-site restaurant highlights traditional cuisine and local ingredients through an elevated four, seven or nine-course tasting menu.
AL DOM (Orta San Giulio)
A charming bed and breakfast located within a renovated 18th-century Palazzo right on the edge of the Lake. The train station is less than a mile away and a sweet and savory buffet breakfast is provided daily.
CUCCHIAIO DI LEGNO (Orta San Giulio)
A lovely agritourism bed and breakfast tucked into the hills above Lago d'Orta. It’s also a working farm with a restaurant that features fresh, local ingredients and dishes, and on-site amenities include spa facilities and treatments. The spaces are clean and modern and the property is a welcome retreat among the trees and away from crowds and tourists.
GIARDINETTO HOTEL (Pettenasco)
A family run hotel with plenty of amenities, including an on-site restaurant, and a lovely lakeside location with rooms that include views of Lake Orta
HOTEL SAN ROCCO (Orta San Giulio)
Set in a former 16th century monastery, Hotel San Rocco is a sustainable lakeside hotel that offers more of a resort experience. Rooms have been renovated to provide modern comfort while maintaining plenty of nods to their historic convent past. Amenities include a rooftop garden, swimming pool with views, and the hotel is home to a restaurant, Teatro Magico, and lounge bar. Both with terraces!
VILLA CRESPIA (Orta San Giulio)
If you’re looking for something truly luxurious and special, look no further than Villa Crespia, a 5 Star Luxury Relais & Chateaux property. With ornate details and antique furniture, private gardens that lead down to the lake and a highly acclaimed on-site restaurant, a visit (or stay) here is truly a treat.
APPARTAMENTO GLI ARCHI (Orta San Giulio)
If you’re looking for more of an apartment/home style stay, this is the spot. It’s well appointed with all the essentials but the real star of this place is the views of the lake and Isola San Giulio. They’re truly incredible and, honestly, it’s worth a stay here for those alone.
WHERE TO EAT IN LAKE ORTA
One of the things I love the most about Italy is how truly unique and different each region is, especially when it comes to food. Now, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect in Lake Orta, but given it’s location in Piedmont, a region known for it’s culinary delights, I wagered that we’d be in for at least a good meal or two. And I’m happy to report that I was not wrong. While everything wasn’t a culinary hit (Can anywhere really bat 100, though?!), I also had one of the best meals I’ve ever had in Italy at our hotel’s restaurant. The meal was truly outstanding in every way possible. And lucky for us, we also arrived the evening of their weekly wine tasting feast ,and breakfast is included in your stay so suffice it to say, we were eating well during our entire stay.
Now, outside of our hotel, we didn’t have a lot of extra time, and we also chose to cook dinner one evening, so we didn’t get to many of the restaurants on our list. But here’s where we did make it to-
LA CUCINA della Darbia (dinner, Orta San Giulio)
An absolute must, must, must for dinner! Everything from the meal to the service was simply outstanding. Each bite was better than the last and I will dream of the beef wellington that I had here for years to come. You do not need to be a guest to eat here, but you will need reservations either way.
Enoteca Re Di Coppe (wine bar, Orta San Giulio)
A great little spot right in Piazza Motta. Now look, is it the best food you’re going to have in Italy? Definitely not. But for a touristy area, the views, the people watching in the square, the prices, and the service can’t be beat. Come early for a cappuccino, the afternoon for aperitivo, or, like us, come for both.
Filo e Fieno (lunch, Orta San Giulio)
While I had a few other spots on my list, we were short for time and needed to work with what was nearby in town. Which just so happened to be this lovely little restaurant tucked down one of the streets in Orta San Giulio. It’s rustic, in a charming way, but don’t let the hale bay seating deter you. Think of it more like a cozy countryside dinner at a friend’s country house. The food here was incredibly delicious (The gnocchi was divine!), the portions were more than generous, we were given complimentary appetizers (a local fish dish), the prices were very reasonable, and the service was warm and inviting. Yes, even sitting on a hay bale (don’t worry, some of the tables also have regular chairs).
Other Restaurants to consider (AKA ALL THE ONES WE DIDN’T HAVE TIME TO MAKE IT TO)
As always seems to be the case when traveling, our list of places to eat at is long, but our time is short. Lake Orta was no exception. So, for your consideration, here is a list of restaurants that we had bookmarked but sadly didn’t have enough time to make it to. I hope you can enjoy one (or a few of them) for us if you’re visiting the area-
L’OSTERIETTA VACCIAGO (lunch or dinner, Vacciago)
Cozy little spot that feels warm and welcoming. Local cuisine, Italian music playing, a great patio if the weather is nice, a fireplace inside and a kind proprietor, you’ll feel more like you’re dining at someone’s home.
RISTORANTE VENUS (lunch or dinner, Orta San Giulio)
Lakeside dining with lovely views of the water and the island
RISTORANTE SAN GIULIO (lunch or dinner, Isola San Giulio)
If you want to dine on the island, this is the spot!
IL POZZO (lunch or dinner, Orta San Giulio)
Another couple staying at our hotel recommended the pizza here and said this was good for a casual lunch or dinner option with great lake views.
OSTERIA DELLA FAINA (lunch or dinner, Ameno)
Off the beaten (aka tourist) path, a homey place tucked away in hills, a meal full of local foods and fresh prepared dishes
RISTORANTE VECCHIO CIRCOLO (open breakfast, lunch and dinner, Monteviasco)
Another off the beaten path option, this cozy, homey spot requires a bit of a hike (or a ride up a funicular) to get to, but it’s worth it for a meal that feels homemade and features local ingredients and dishes prepared fresh by the owners
VECCHIO FORNO (dinner, Pettenasco)
Supposed to be a great, more local spot for pizza
VILLA CRESPIA (Orta San Giulio)
3 Michellin star restaurant located in a stunning location, if you’re looking for a really special meal and experience this may be worth looking into
GIARDINETTO HOTEL (lunch, dinner or aperitivo, lakeside in Pettenasco)
Lakeside dining away from the tourists
AL BOEUC (wine bar, Orta San Giulio)
A cozy and inviting wine bar located down a side street; friendly owner and staff, a bit more of a local feel, great wine list and menu of little bites but go for the bagna cauda, which is a traditional Piedmont dip that is warm and garlic-y and really delicious.
CUCCHIAIO DI LEGNO (lunch or dinner, Orta San Giulio)
Talk about a true farm to table restaurant. Located in the hills of Lago d'Orta sits this lovely bed and breakfast that’s also a working farm with a restaurant. Their menu incorporates high quality and local ingredients from their farm as well as other local producers and features classic regional food, along with fresh fish from the lake, risotto, and more. Inquire ahead of time for dining and if it’s nice out be sure to dine on their patio.
PAN & VINO (wine bar, Orta San Giulio)
Another wine bar located in Orta San Giulio’s Piazza Motta. Great for enjoying a drink and/or bite overlooking the piazza. Known for their sharing boards of of regional meats and cheeses as well as dishes prepared with local ingredients and flavors and an extensive wine list that includes many local Piedmont wines.
OSTERIA SPERANZA OMEGNA (lunch, dinner Friday and Saturday, Omegna)
A family-run trattoria that offers traditional Piedmontese dishes in a small, casual setting. Fassona Tartare, gnocchetti and freshwater fish are a few of the dishes to try.
TOWNS TO EXPLORE AROUND LAKE ORTA
While Orta San Giulio is the most well known town on Lake Orta, there are lots of little villages scattered throughout the hillside and along the lake that are worth checking out here. Here are few highlights:
Orta San Giulio
As I mentioned above, this is definitely the main town, if you will, in the area. Here you’ll find many restaurants, plenty of lodging options, more tourist attractions as well as the nearby train station. Explore the narrow alleys lined with pastel-colored houses, stroll along the lake, pop into local artisan shops, and enjoy cozy meals in tucked away cafés. Don’t miss Piazza Motta, the lively main square overlooking the water and be sure to catch a boat out to Isola San Giulio.
Omegna
Omegna is a charming village and the birthplace of Italian writer Gianni Rodari. From Omegna you can embark on one of the most picturesque hikes known as the Anello di Quarna, a loop that takes you through woods, churches, lakes and panoramic viewpoints.
Pella
This small town on the western shore of Lake Orta is directly across the lake from Orta San Giulio. You can see the old washhouse in Piazza Ravedoni where women used to come to hand wash their laundry when they couldn’t get down to the Lake itself.
Other things to check out- the ancient medieval tower, the pier and the Church of San Filiberto, which is the oldest chapel on the western shore of Lake Orta.
Legro
Just outside the small peninsula where Orta San Giulio is located is the small village of Legro, known for its whimsical and colorful painted frescos. The murals, painted by both well-established painters and students from local art schools, depict the work of the local poet Gianni Rodari, and famous Italian movies set in Lake Orta.
BEST Things to Do in LAKE ORTA
Lake Orta is one of those places where you don’t really come to “do things”. In fact, some of the best things to do here are nothing at all. Between the lake, forest and hills, the pilgrimage site and churches, and the crisp, clean alpine air, there is something special here that makes you just want to pause and breath. Crack open a good book, meander by the lake, enjoy a leisurely lunch, savor the solitude in a chapel or along the “Way of Silence”, spend afternoons sketching, or hiking, depending on your preferences, truly just unwind and relax in every way possible. That being said, there is still plenty to do, see and explore in and around the lake. Here are a few things I recommend-
1. Explore Orta San Giulio
This enchanting medieval town is the jewel of the lake. Wander through narrow alleys lined with pastel-colored houses, pop into local artisan shops and churches, walk along the lake and enjoy cozy meals in tucked away cafés. Don’t miss Piazza Motta, the lively main square overlooking the water.
As a heads up, it’s best to park up above the town (there are paid parking lots), then make your way down into the center of town. Depending on the season, expect the parking to be limited, especially as it gets later in the day. Plan to arrive early, especially during peak season.
2. SEE Piazza Mario Motta
The main square in Orta is Piazza Mario Motta. Cafes and bars line the square with the Broletto or Community Palace as the centerpiece. The Broletto is an old middle age fresco structure, sitting on top of stilts and arches, with the city crest embed on the front. This is where power was exercised back in 1582. The Broletto and piazza overlook Isola Orta San Giulio and the lake. At the end of the piazza, a number of fresco and pastel-colored houses and cafes line up the square and cobbled alley.
Note: On Wednesdays it’s also home to a local market with various vendors selling everything from food to clothes.
3. Visit Isola San Giulio
Just a short boat ride from Orta San Giulio, this small island is home to the Basilica di San Giulio, a basilica built in the 4th century and currently home to the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery of Benedictine nuns. While the monastary is cloistered (meaning the public can’t visit), you can go into the basilica as well as enjoy the tranquil walkway around the island known as the “Way of Silence.” It's a must-visit for lovers of history and quiet reflection and the walkway is basically a meditation, but better.
You can book a boat ride to the island via Navigazione Lago d’Orta, or simply catch one of the ferry boats from the center of Orta San Giulio. There’s also a restaurant on the island where you can enjoy lunch or dinner.
4. RELISH IN THE REFLECTIVE TRANQUILITY OF Sacro Monte di Orta
One of the things Orta San Giulio is most famous for its Sacre Monte, one of 9 sacred mountains, or sacre monte, located in Piemonte. These religious pilgrimage sites are renowned tourist attractions, but the one in Orta San Giulio also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Here high above the town, on a hill that overlooks the lake, you’ll find 20 chapels tucked among gardens and along forested trails. All of the chapels are dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi and each is adorned with a different renaissance fresco to illustrate his life. Along with the chapels, visitors will also find over 350 statues as well as the Church of San Nicolao and unparalleled breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Orta.
Hike up from Orta San Giulio (it’s a lovely 25-minute walk from the Piazza Motta up the hill to the summit) or drive to the upper parking lot and then walk around. Either way, you don’t want to miss the beauty and moments of quiet reflection that this tranquil space offers. It’s something truly special.
Note: There is a restaurant on site if you’d like to dine during your visit, or even just grab a coffee and a treat. However, if it’s pleasant weather, I’d recommend packing a picnic to enjoy while taking in the views.
Address: Via al Sacro Monte, 28016 Orta San Giulio, Italy
Website: sacrimonti.org/en/sacro-monte-di-orta
5. ENJOY The Gardens of Villa Motta
This 19th-century villa may be a private residence, but don’t worry, you’re in luck. The owners kindly welcome visitors to explore the beautiful gardens as long as you make reservations in advance. And it is definitely worth it. The sumptuous gardens, designed in the 20th century by architect Alessandro Mazzucotelli, preserve a rich botanical heritage and were even recognized as an International Camellia Garden of Excellence in 2020. With over 250 types of camellias that are in bloom all year round, the gardens are truly a spectacular celebration of colors and fragrances and it’s such a special experience to be able to stroll through and experience them.
Address: Via Motta 24, 28016, Orta San Giulio, Italy
Website: internationalcamellia.org
6. Stroll the Lakeside Promenade
No matter the season, wandering along the lake in Orta San Giulio is truly special. Early mornings offer misty reflections, while evenings provide peaceful sunsets. Take your time to stroll and enjoy your surroundings, taking in the different sites along the way.
7. Taste Local Cuisine
Lake Orta is perfect for food lovers. Enjoy things such as:
-Freshwater fish dishes and hearty Piedmontese cuisine
-Chestnuts in autumn and seasonal truffles
-Regional wines from nearby vineyards
8. VISIT THE Villa Bossi Public Garden
Right off the main square in Orta San Giulio, next to Hotel San Rocco, is the beautiful public Comune di Orta San Giulio. This former villa, built in the 17th century, now serves as a town hall. However, the gardens are open to the public and are well worth the visit. The building itself is adorned with frescos and maintains much of its character and historical details. Then behind the Comune di Orta San Giulio (town hall), you’ll find an arch that leads to the enchanting hidden gardens. Filled with fragrant flowers, the gardens stretch out to the waterfront where you can take in the views of Lago d’Orta and Isola San Giulio.
Address: Via Ettore Bossi 11, 28016 Orta San Giulio Italy
9. Swim, Paddleboard, or Kayak
The waters of Lake Orta are known for their cleanliness and clarity. In warmer months, locals and visitors alike enjoy swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding. For rentals, check out this company.
10. SAVOR Lakeside Dining
Be sure to enjoy some of the regional dishes like risotto al pesce persico (perch risotto) or tajarin pasta with truffle, paired with wines from the nearby Langhe or Ghemme regions, along with lakeside views. Many of the restaurants along the water offer dreamy sunset views making them perfect for a romantic dinner for two. Just be sure to make reservations.
11. PAUSE FOR A QUIET MOMENT OF REFLECTION AT ONE OF the LOCAL Churches
Outside of the 20 chapels at Sacro Monte di Orta and the Basilica di San Giulio on the island, there are a plethora of other beautiful churches and chapels around the area. In Orta San Giulio you’ll find The Church of Santa Maria of the Assunta (or Church of Saint Mary of the Assumption), originally built in 1485 and then renovated in the 16th century, which is located on top of the "Salita della Motta" overlooking the lake, Chiesa della Santissima Trinità (or The Church of the Holy Trinity), which is a small church built in 1727, nestled between two houses, near the lake and slightly removed from the center of town, and Chiesa di San Rocco (or The Church of Saint Roch), built in 1631, following the liberation of the village from the plague.
The Church of Santa Maria of the Assunta Address: Via Caire Albertoletti, 28016 Orta San Giulio NO, Italy
The Church of the Holy Trinity Address: Via Giovanetti, 49, 28016 Orta San Giulio NO, Italy
The Church of Saint Roch Address: at the corner of Via Bossi and Via Professor Antonio Poli, Orta San Giulio NO, Italy
12. SEE THE Apparition of Saint Padre Pio
Speaking of The Church of Saint Roch, one of the things that makes it even more special is the apparition of Saint Pio on an old house from the 700s located directly in front of the church (on Via Bossi). If you look up at the last floor, next to the balcony, people claim that you can see Saint Pio in the now dilapidated wall. A local priest decided to honor this apparition by placing a statue of Saint Pio in the nearby courtyard and a book where visitors could write their thoughts. Some claim they’ve even been healed after visiting the apparition…I have always been fascinate by and devoted to Padre Pio so this was a must stop for. Sadly, I was not able to make out the appiration but Dave was. Either way, it’s still worth a stop.
Address: Next to The Church of Saint Roch, on Via Bossi
13. HEAD OUT ON A HIKE
As you can imagine with a lake surrounded by hills, there are no shortage of hikes in the area. Short ones, long ones, easy ones, hard ones, take your pick. This is a really helpful post with a few of the top trails in the area, along with how to access them and itineraries for hiking them. This was also a nice itinerary for a day spent hiking through several of the small villages from Pettenasco to Orta San Guilio via the Painted Village of Legro.
14. Take in the spectacular views from THE Madonna del Sasso (Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Rock)
Built on a large granite rock overhanging the lake, you’ll find this sacred complex with some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the area. The Sanctuary of Madonna del Sasso, which was built in the early 1700’s, is also the finishing point of the hiking trail called Le Valli della Fede (The Valleys of Faith), an itinerary which links the minor sanctuaries of the Central and Eastern Biella area with Lake Orta. This route is inspired by the one taken by Saint Charles Borromeo presumably several times during the years in which he was archbishop of Milan (1565-1584).
Of course, you don’t have to do the hike, you can go just to take in the church and its artwork and the views, of course. There’s also a hotel nearby if you want to savor the views for even longer. Either way, plan about 30 minutes to get there by car as it’s about 17km from Orta.
Address: Via Panoramica, 28894 Madonna del Sasso VB, Italy
15. EXPLORE the lake by boat
For a different viewpoint of the lake, head out on a boat and explore from the water. You can rent a boat, either with or without a skipper, through a few local companies including this one and this one.
16. VIEW Cascata della Qualba
On the northwestern shore of Lake Orta near Verbania is the Cascata della Qualba, a pretty waterfall that makes for beautiful photos of the nature surrounding Lake Orta. However, as a heads up, this can only be reached by boat.
17. HIKE Il Monte Mottarone
Mount Mottarone is a mountain in the Western Alps of Piedmont that divides Lake Maggiore from Lake Orta. With an elevation of 1,492 meters, it offers sweeping panoramic views over the Po Valley as far as Monviso, the Monte Rosa massif, the Swiss Alps and across seven lakes. Spend the day taking relaxing walks across shrub-lined paths and over gentle, grassy slopes, past alpine huts where you can stop and savor polenta, and through the woods in search of porcini mushrooms, with more little pit-stops along the way to taste cold cuts and local cheeses.
Fun fact- on 18 January 1935 the first giant slalom in Italy – an international ski race dubbed “Coppa del Duce” (“The Duce’s Cup”) – was held here. To this day, in the winter season, this mountain is still a major ski centre for the Lake Maggiore area, with a variety of runs, excellent restaurant facilities and equipment hire.
Address: Mottarone, Pennine Alps
Website: illagomaggiore.com
18. SEE THE Legro murals
Just outside the small peninsula where Orta San Giulio is located you’ll find the small village of Legro, known for its whimsical and colorful painted frescos. The murals, painted by both well-established painters and students from local art schools, depict the work of the local poet Gianni Rodari, and famous Italian movies set in Lake Orta.
Visiting Lake Orta in Fall
Autumn adds another special layer of magic to the lake. Think golden foliage, crisp air, a quieter lakeside experience and seasonal food like chestnuts and truffles. It’s truly lovely.
Fall Highlights:
Colorful Foliage: As if this place didn’t already feel like a movie set, golden leaves and colorful fall foliage make it feel that much more so.
Autumn Flavors: Think chestnuts, mushrooms, truffles, and fragrant Piedmont dishes. In other words, all the warming, cozy and delicious foods that are exactly what you’d want to be eating on a crisp fall day.
Less Visitors: In a season with far less tourists, you can practically guarantee that just about everything will be easier to do, from finding parking to driving around to crowds at popular sites. Less visitors also means that the lake is more quiet and peaceful than usual making for an even more relaxing experience than usual.
A Few Caveats
The weather can be cooler and rainier making it harder to explore and do things like hikes or taking a boat ride out on the lake. Be sure to have appropriate attire, such as a waterproof coat and boots, with you just in case.
Dress in layers; autumn mornings are crisp
Ferry schedules may be limited- be sure to check in advance
Book accommodations early, even in shoulder season, as availability may be more limited (some properties are only open seasonally)
Some things may be closed for the season or have more limited hours
One-Day Sample Itinerary (Fall Edition)
Morning:
Savor an early cozy coffee and breakfast moment at your hotel or in Piazza Motta, Orta San Giulio, while taking in the foliage and lake and maybe even reading a bit of a good book
Head out for a hike of the Sacro Monte di Orta (plan at least an hour, but 2-3 if you don’t want to be rushed and want to take your time with every chapel) OR, for an all day adventure, head out on a nearby hillside hike
Midday:
Lunch at a lakeside trattoria featuring local dishes OR, if you’re hiking, stop at a hut along the way for a cozy plate of polenta
Afternoon (if you aren’t doing a hike):
Ferry over to Isola San Giulio to explore the monastery and island streets. You can also ferry out earlier and enjoy lunch on the island before exploring.
After you return from the island, explore the town, popping into churches and shops along the way, as you enjoy a lakeside walk toward Villa Crespi.
Enjoy aperitivo hour back in Piazza Motta (Perhaps at Enoteca Re Di Coppe) or at Villa Crespi (sit outside if the weather allows)
Optional stop on your way back to your lodging- Legro, a small village known for colorful murals
Evening:
Enjoy a local dinner featuring Piedmont wines and seasonal fare at LA CUCINA della Darbia (be sure to make reservations)
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