A real treat for the senses, Italy’s ornate gardens and picturesque lakes are showcased on this beautiful tour. Our ideal tour base is the charming lakeside resort of Stresa overlooking Lake Maggiore, convenient for a day to explore the nearby Borromean Islands, rich in history and 17th century horticultural marvels. To really get to know this ‘picture perfect’ region, the bustling town of Como with stunning scenic trips by boat or rail and a guided tour of Milan, Italy’s capital of fashion is also in our sights.
Milan
Cernobbio
Itinerary
SUGGESTED ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2 Borromean Islands Driver’s Day Off
We enjoy a leisurely day visiting the stunning Borromean Islands, located just offshore from the centre of Stresa. We can take the boat out to Isola Bella, which houses a beautiful stately home and elegant Italianate gardens, before we continue by boat to Isola dei Pescatori (Fishermen’s Island), the only island which is currently inhabited.
Day 3 Lake Como
After breakfast we take the drive to Lake Como and the capital of the lake itself, Como. This historic town enjoys a vibrant and bustling atmosphere, with plenty of shops, bars and cafes to while away the time and enjoy. We may wish to take the spectacular Como to Brunate funicular, which departs from Piazza Alcide de Gaspari, close to the lakefront. The views from the top are amazing, often referred to as ‘the balcony of the Alps’. Alternatively, we could pop onto one of the public ferries to the nearby attractive resort of Cernobbio, affording lovely vistas from the lake. A leisurely drive in the afternoon takes us back to our home base of Stresa.
Day 4 Villa Taranto Gardens and Cannero Riviera
A short drive around the lake to Pallanza takes us to the wonderful botanical gardens of Villa Taranto. Enjoy a morning walk around these beautiful gardens, there is also a self-service café for a snack at lunchtime. In the afternoon, travel further up the west coast to the ‘olde worlde’ tropical enclave of Cannero Riviera, a delightful and lesser-known resort where time seems to have stood still!
Day 5 Milan
Today takes us by coach to the fashion and financial capital of Italy, Milan. Together with a step on guide we may learn about the Sforzesco Castle, close to our drop off point, and from here we enjoy a leisurely walking tour of Milan’s centre, arriving in Piazza Duomo. Here we can marvel at one of Italy’s most imposing cathedrals, located in an impressive piazza, which leads to the highly fashionable and stylish Galleria Vittorio Emanuele 11 adorned with boutique shops, elegant cafes and restaurants. We can enjoy plenty of free time after our walking tour to wander or simply sip an espresso and watch the world go by. After some free time for lunch in the afternoon we take the leisurely coach journey back to lovely Stresa.
Day 6 Departure
After breakfast, we begin our journey home.
Hotel
Astoria Hotel
Stresa, Lake Maggiore
This welcoming 4 star hotel is efficiently run and managed by the Mariani family. Its excellent location is directly on the promenade just a few minutes’ stroll from the lovely centre of Stresa. Comfortably furnished with spacious public areas, the main restaurant is attractive and overlooks the lake and its islands. Facilities include a pleasant bar, an outdoor swimming pool and beautiful gardens, while all 100 bedrooms include a TV and hairdryer.
BarLeisure FacilitiesLiftParking On Site & Free of ChargeRestaurant
Hotel Milan Speranza au Lac
Stresa, Lake Maggiore
Located on the edge of Stresa’s historic centre with its shops and bars and just a stone’s throw from the lakefront and boat stop, the 4 star Milan Speranza au Lac is a charming, traditional hotel with a wonderful ambience. The 163 bedrooms vary in size due to the historic nature of the building and all are equipped with a TV and hairdryer. The elegant restaurant serves very good cuisine with friendly and professional service and there is a lovely bar on the first floor where customers can enjoy an evening drink.
• Lift • Bar • Restaurant • Coach parking is off-site & chargeable
BarLiftParking Off Site & ChargeableRestaurant
Pricing
5 Nights Half Board
Based on Sunday arrivals
Inclusions
- Return short sea crossing
Please refer to your quote for hotel inclusions
