When thinking of the Italian Lakes, one cannot help but envision great expanses of sparkling, deep-blue water, lush vegetation, enchanting villages and sumptuous villas harmoniously dotting their shores, and an overall serenity of the landscape. And, indeed, so it is! But, there is also another aspect of this spectacular region that is little known, an undiscovered world too often overlooked - secluded valleys with century-old traditions, artisans with their exquisite handicrafts, and wilderness areas and verdant summer pastures, where silence is broken only by the soothing sound of cowbells. Our distinctive program encompasses all these diverse and unique aspects, incorporating into our days exclusive activities and exceptional hiking excursions off the beaten path. We soak in the Mediterranean atmosphere of lakeside towns such as Orta San Giulio, Bellagio, and Varenna. Venturing into the foothills of the Alps, we hike to perfect vantage points offering stunning balcony views over the lakes and their backdrop of mountains. We visit lovely islands, manicured gardens, and opulent palaces and villas. We end our days with comfortable accommodations by the lakeshore, and with exceptional meals, reflecting the traditional cuisine, and accompanied by exquisite local wines.


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Itinerary Outline

Day 1, 2 •  Milan - Lake Orta
Meet your guide and transfer to Orta San Giulio. Visit the tiny Island of San Giulio, its Basilica and Sacro Monte, a perfect vantage point with great views of the Lake and the mountains. Enjoy a hike above Lake Orta, through summer pastures and over panoramic ridges, and take an exclusive tour of a family-run wind instruments factory.
 
Day 3, 4 • Lake Maggiore
A spectacular day of hiking introduces us to the Val Grande National Park, an extraordinary wilderness area of unique natural and historical interest. We visit the Borromeo Island, whose exquisite palaces and manicured gardens enjoy world-wide fame.

Day 5, 6 • Lake Como
Our hiking excursions take us to Monte San Primo and the western shore of the Lake, serene environments of cow pastures, fields of wildflowers, vineyards, and forests framed by the backdrop of the Alps. We conclude our journey with an exclusive tour of Villa del Balbianello and a boat ride to Como.

Day 7 • Departure
The trip ends in Como. Transfer on your own to Malpensa Airport or other destination of your choice.