Maggiore and the Lakeland Quartet

Lake Maggiore is an idyllic retreat where magnificent mountains plunge to the lakeside and grand villas lie secluded behind palm trees and lush gardens. Our base is in the stylish resort of Stresa, within sight of the Borromean Islands. During this tour see no fewer than four lakes in addition to historic towns and villages. We offer a choice of hotels, all in great destinations.

Lakes Maggiore, Orta, Lugano and Como • Historic towns • The Borromean Islands

Day 1 Short Channel crossing to Calais and then south, through the Belgian Ardennes and Luxembourg. On then to France for dinner and an overnight stay near Metz.

Day 2 Journey into Switzerland, past Lake Lucerne and through the Gotthard Pass to Bellinzona. Arrive at Lake Maggiore and pass through Locarno enroute to Stresa for a 5 night stay.

Day 3 A full day to relax and enjoy Stresa. Follow the town trail and learn about the history of Stresa seeing its most famous buildings enroute. Alternatively, enjoy a scenic cruise to the island of Isola Bella and visit its magnificent garden.

Day 4 Three Lakes excursion, starting with a drive from Italy and into Switzerland to pass through Locarno. On then to Lugano, on beautiful Lake Lugano, where the town's wonderful tree lined promenade is overlooked by the surrounding peaks. Proceed from here to Lake Como with a little time at leisure in historic Como City before returning to Stresa in time for dinner.

Day 5 A full day excursion through the wild mountainous scenery of the Anzasca Valley, once famous for its gold mines. Travel to Macugnaga which is overlooked by the mighty Monte Rosa, one of the highest peaks in the Alps. There will be time to relax here and see the typical old houses and the town square.

Day 6 To start the day climb up from Lake Maggiore and through Omegna to arrive at Lake Orta. This unspoilt area comes complete with towering peaks, lush forests, sparkling waters and historic towns. Orta San Giulio is well worth some exploration with its narrow, cobbled streets, cafés, restaurants and views across the lake to the neighbouring island.

Day 7 Depart Italy and travel on for dinner and an overnight stay in the Metz area.

Day 8 North, through the Belgian Ardennes and on to Calais for a Channel crossing back to Dover and home.

Lake Maggiore: Boats, Trains and Gardens

Borromean Islands boat trip from Stresa • Visit Isola Madre + Isola Bella • Centovalli Railway Domodossola to Locarno or similar • Villa Taranto Gardens • Return boat trip Pella/Orta San Giulio

All tours are tailored to your requirements and can be adapted for travel by coach and/or air as you prefer. Occasionally itineraries change. Please see our current brochure or contact us for the latest version.

Hotel Astoria, Stresa

This family run 4 star hotel has a great location in the centre of Stresa overlooking the promenade and the lake. This hotel offers modern comforts and traditional hospitality. Guest bedrooms are well appointed and all with air conditioning. As well as a bar and restaurant the hotel has a garden, terrace and outdoor swimming pool. Guaranteed lake view rooms are available at a supplement.

• 4 star • 100 bedrooms • Lift

• Outdoor swimming pool

• Rooftop terrace

• Coach parking

Grand Hotel Dino, Baveno

Also available are the elegant 4 star Grand Hotel Bristol and Grand Hotel Dino. Both are located close to Stresa, and all the main sites this beautiful area has to offer. Contact us for more details.

Your tour includes:

• Return short Channel crossings

• 1 night half board on the outbound journey

• 5 nights half board in Stresa with:
Buffet breakfast
3 course dinner with choice

• 1 night half board on the inbound journey

For a quotation, or to enquire about this tour, fill in our online form, send us an email or call us on 01432 277666.