Lake Orta: A Peaceful Luxury Escape Between April and October

Geographical Location of Lake Orta

Getting to Lake Orta from Milan Malpensa Airport

A Brief History of Lake Orta

The Towns of Lake Orta

Activities at Lake Orta (April to October)

Excursions Near Lake Orta

A Single-Centre or Multi-Centre Holiday Destination

Island of San Giulio on Lake Orta with historic buildings and a backdrop of autumnal hills reflecting in the clear lake water.
Stunning view of the Island of San Giulio on Lake Orta, with its historic architecture set against the backdrop of autumn-colored hills.

Geographical Location of Lake Orta

Lake Orta is nestled in the Piemonte region of northern Italy, just west of Lake Maggiore. This peaceful 13-kilometre lake offers crystal-clear waters and picturesque views and is the perfect destination for a luxury escape between April and October.

Getting to Lake Orta from Milan Malpensa Airport

Reaching Lake Orta from Milan Malpensa Airport is quick and convenient:

🚗 By Car:

Driving from Malpensa takes about an hour via the A26 motorway, which allows you to explore nearby destinations like Lake Maggiore.

🚆 By Train:

Take a train from Malpensa to Domodossola for a scenic option and then transfer to a regional train toward Omegna or Orta-Miasino. The journey takes about 2 hours and offers beautiful countryside views.

Charming historic street in Orta San Giulio, with beautifully preserved architecture leading to a sunlit courtyard, framed by the mountains in the distance.

The Towns of Lake Orta

Orta San Giulio

With its cobblestone streets and the historic Church of Maria Assunta, Orta San Giulio is enchanting. The Sacred Mountain of Orta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides panoramic lake views.

Island of San Giulio

The Island of San Giulio is a place of spiritual reflection, home to the Basilica of San Giulio. Its serene paths invite quiet contemplation.

Pella

Pella is a village on the lake’s western shore that perfectly blends natural beauty and historical significance. It offers beautiful vistas and architectural elegance.

Pettenasco

Pettenasco is a medieval village offering peaceful lakeside promenades and quiet beaches, perfect for relaxation.

Omegna

A lively town with a mix of Roman history and modern events, Omegna hosts festivals and boasts Gianni Rodari’s Fantasy Park, celebrating the famous Italian writer.

Gozzano

Known for its historical monuments, Gozzano allows visitors to step into a world of ancient towers, palaces, and basilicas.

Waterfront in Omegna at dusk, with reflections of a historic building and streetlights glowing on the lake’s surface, and a boat docked nearby.
Evening reflections of the waterfront in Omegna, with its elegant architecture and moored boats illuminated by warm streetlights

A Brief History of Lake Orta

The history of Lake Orta stretches back to Roman times, with its most tremendous significance developing in the Middle Ages. The story of Saint Julius, who banished mythical creatures from the Island of San Giulio and established its basilica, is central to the lake’s spiritual history. During the Renaissance, the area became a retreat for nobility, and many villas from this period still grace the lakeside today.

Activities at Lake Orta (April to October)

🛥️ Take a boat tour of Lake Orta, visit the Island of San Giulio or enjoy the tranquillity of the lake. Private boat rentals and sunset cruises provide a luxurious way to experience the stunning surroundings.

👣 Sacro Monte di Orta offers scenic walking trails with breathtaking views and 20 chapels dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi. For more walking routes, including hidden trails, visit Itinerarium for expert insights into the best paths around the lake.

🍇 Explore local vineyards between April and October for wine tastings at nearby wineries like:

Cantina Le Carezze is known for its organic Erbaluce.

La Darbia offers Nebbiolo tastings alongside vineyard tours.

🚴‍♂️ The CicloVia del Lago d’Orta is a popular bike route offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding hills. More adventurous cyclists can challenge themselves on the nearby alpine paths.

Scenic view of Lake Orta surrounded by rolling hills and mountains during sunset, with golden grasses in the foreground and soft light over the landscape.
Golden hour over the rolling hills and mountains near Lake Orta, offering breathtaking views of the lake nestled among the peaks.

Excursions Near Lake Orta

🗺️ Lake Orta’s proximity to the Alps and nearby lakes makes it an excellent excursion base. Hike up Monte Mottarone for sweeping views of Lake Orta and Lake Maggiore.

🚞 In September and October, take the Foliage Train from Domodossola to Locarno, passing through the colourful autumn landscapes of Valle Vigezzo and Centovalli.

Scenic cycling route near Lake Orta, offering breathtaking views of the lake, surrounding mountains, and picturesque villages.

Food & Wine at Lake Orta

The cuisine of Lake Orta reflects its location in Piemonte, with dishes like:

🐟 Risotto with perch, made with fresh lake fish.

🧀 Toma cheese, a local favourite, often paired with honey.

🍂 Wild mushroom risotto is especially popular in autumn.

Lake Orta is home to two Michelin-starred restaurants:

Villa Crespi: A two-star restaurant set in a Moorish villa, offering Mediterranean cuisine under the direction of Chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo.

Locanda di Orta: A one-star Michelin restaurant on San Giulio Island, led by Chef Andrea Monesi, featuring a blend of Piedmontese meats, fish, and creative desserts amidst stunning lake views.

Outdoor café overlooking Lake Orta with a view of the town of Orta San Giulio.
Enjoying a peaceful moment at an outdoor café by Lake Orta, with a stunning view of the town of Orta San Giulio.

Lake Orta: A Single-Centre or Multi-Centre Holiday Destination

Lake Orta is the perfect destination for a single-centre holiday focused on relaxation, culture, and nature. For those wanting to explore more, it is ideally located for a multi-centre holiday, with nearby access to Lake Maggiore, the Alps, and Milan.

Lake Orta offers an idyllic escape for luxury travelers seeking tranquility, history, and gourmet experiences between April and October. Whether you’re cruising the serene waters, enjoying a Michelin-starred meal, or exploring scenic walking trails, Lake Orta is the perfect destination for relaxation and discovery. For more insights, walking routes, and cultural tips,  visit Itinerarium to make the most of your journey.