Lake Maggiore

A sizable lake called Lake Maggiore can be found on the Alps' southern flank. It is the largest lake in southern Switzerland and the second largest lake in Italy. The Swiss canton of Ticino and the Italian provinces of Piedmont and Lombardy share the lake's shoreline. Lake Maggiore stretches for around 65 kilometers between Locarno and Arona, halfway between Lake Orta and Lake Lugano.

The majority of the top attractions are located on the western side, where you can also find Villa Taranto and Villa Pallavicino's stunning subtropical gardens and park. The latter is one of the most popular family-friendly activities on Lake Maggiore because it features botanical and displays gardens as well as a zoo with exotic animals.

Boat transport visitors to the three Borromean Islands from fashionable Stresa, which serves as a popular base. Rocca Borromeo, the extravagant palace on Isola Bella, is the main draw despite the fact that each of the islands has its own appeal. The majority of the island is covered in magnificent salons and galleries with lavish ornamental flourishes covered in gold, but the highlight of a tour is the much more exquisite formal garden that rises tier after tier above the lake.

Compared to Lake Garda, Maggiore has fewer beaches, although various towns offer canoe and kayak rentals. The finest way to see Angera Castle, lakefront homes, and the ever-changing mountains to the north is to take a tour on one of the lake steamers.

Location: Ticino, Switzerland