Italy’s longest lake, Lake Maggiore lies at the foot of the southern Alps and extends into Switzerland in the north. Most of the Lake Maggiore hotels in Switzerland are in Locarno and neighbouring Ascona. Surrounded by vineyards, Locarno houses a 12th-century castle and an innovative representation of the solar system which extends as far as Tegna village.
Also in Swiss territory is Brissago, starting point for boat trips to the Brissago Islands whose botanical gardens grow coffee plants. Over the Italian border is beautiful Cannobio in Piedmont, where brightly coloured buildings overlook the small harbour.
South is Ghiffa, home to a UNESCO World Heritage-listed pilgrimage mountain. Just beyond is Verbania, a laidback city lining 2 of Maggiore Lake’s shores. Across the water, the largest of the Borromean Islands – Isola Bella – has a palace and stepped gardens offering wonderful lake views. Home to the largest concentration of Lake Maggiore hotels, Stresa is a lovely town and departure point for boat trips to these islands.
Near the lake’s southern tip is Arona, while less well-known Lake Maggiore resorts in Lombardy include Angera (known for wines and a medieval castle), sleepy Ranco, and Luino with its popular weekly market.
Booking.com has a fabulous range of apartments, B&Bs and hotels by Lake Maggiore covering all these resorts and more.