Italy Guide
Lombardy and the lakes
Lake Maggiore
For generations of overland travellers, weary of journeying over the Alps, LAKE MAGGIORE (Lago Maggiore) has been a first taste of Italy: the sight of limpid blue waters, green hills and exotic vegetation is evidence of arrival in the warm south. Unmistakebly Mediterranean in atmosphere, with palms and oleanders lining the lakeside promenades and a peaceful, serene air, Maggiore – at 66km, Italy's longest lake – may not be somewhere for thrill-seekers, but it is seductively relaxing. Beware that in winter (Nov– Easter) many hotels close down and attractions may be shut.
The majority of tourists head for the western shore, from where the sumptuous gardens and villas of the Isole Borromee are within easy reach. The area retains much of its charm: the genteel old resort of Stresa is still a convenient base, linked by high-speed train to Milan (1hr) and by bus and boat to all points around the lake. Across the bay, Verbania is also well connected by train, bus and ferry, while further north, enchanting Cannobio – the last stop before Switzerland – is popular with families and a good place from which to explore Maggiore's hilly hinterland. For tourism information, check 
www.distrettolaghi.it .