Lake Orta

Northern Italy is full of beautiful lakes, and among the Piedmontese Alps in the province of Novara rises a lake unknown to most, but of sensational beauty. Lake Orta is an authentic jewel set among green hills and the Alps, much smaller than Lake Maggiore, and its shores are dotted with small, characteristic villages.

For some, Lake Orta is one of the most romantic in Italy, and indeed many couples come here for a romantic getaway. But Lake Orta is much more than that: with a length of 15 km and a width of 2 km, it is a small lake teeming with things to see and extraordinary riches.

What to visit at Lake Orta

Lago di Orta is a natural lake formed by the Simplon glacier. As we have seen, it is a small body of water surrounded by woods that turn intense colors in the autumn, creating a very evocative atmosphere.

It is the perfect destination to take a moment to relax and breathe nature, far from the big cities and therefore from any stress. The walk on Lake Orta includes a visit to the beautiful village of Omegna, a very famous place where you can see the Nigoglia stream, which flows towards the Alps and not towards the sea. The town of Omegna is small and tidy, perfect in every part, like a postcard.

Another famous place is Orta San Giulio, a romantic resort where there are beautiful neoclassical villas, while the village is full of stately buildings and beautiful gardens on the lake. Behind Orta is the Sacro Monte and in front of it is the island of San Giulio with its famous basilica. The origins of this island are shrouded in legend: it is said that monsters and snakes once lived here and that San Giulio freed them and founded his church. The island of San Giulio is also known as the island of silence, and it often is: there is a wonderful peace and harmony up there.

On the mainland, at Villa Crespi, the famous chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo delights the palates of those who want to enjoy a truly unique experience. Another place to visit on Lake Orta is Pella, a picturesque village where you can stroll along the lake shore and visit the medieval tower and the chapel of San Filiberto. In short, Lake Orta offers a multifaceted scenario and an excursion not to be missed.