AITO: The Association of Independent Tour Operators
On Foot Holidays - Lake Maggiore

On Foot Holidays - Lake Maggiore

On Foot Holidays - Lake Maggiore Overview

This trip introduces walkers to the glory of the Italian Lakes – specifically Lake Maggiore and its lesser-known companion, Lake Orta. See the glamorous lakeside spots as well as off-the-beaten-track areas, and the Franciscan chapels of Sacro Monte. Savour the region's slow-food cuisine and little-known Alto Piemonte wines.

A journey from lake to lake

This walk – On Foot’s first in the Italian Lakes – brings the glory of the Alps to walkers of modest abilities. The area was the first Italian stop on the Grand Tour, and the resorts around Lake Maggiore developed early in a style pleasing to the eye. The three Borromean islands, notable for their gardens, are worth an extra day exploring via the frequent public ferries linking them.

The fishing villages of Isola Pescatori (the “Fishermen’s isle”) and Orta retain their medieval charm, and these two form the beginning and end of our route. The central section, and the real walking, heads up to the mountain top of Mottarone (and includes a night on the top, with its stunning views of Monte Rosa, the Alps’ second highest mountain), before returning to the lakeshore at Orta San Giulio. Lake Orta is quieter compared with its larger brother, and has more spiritual attractions, most notably the Franciscan assembly of chapels on Sacro Monte and the peaceful convent on Isola San Giulio.

Six, five and four night versions of this holiday are also available. See the On Foot Holidays website for details of prices and dates.

Find out more about the On Foot Holidays - Lake Maggiore

Reviews of this holiday

On Foot Holidays - Lake Maggiore by Booking 19708 S F 23, 27 Nov 2023
Traveller rating:

Wonderful adventure! Very organized, with details and all questions answered. read more

On Foot Holidays - Lake Maggiore by Eve K, 20 Oct 2023
Traveller rating:

Much of the Lake Maggiore walk was was in sight of Lakes Maggiore and Orta which we truly enjoyed. The trails in many parts ... read more

On Foot Holidays - Lake Maggiore by Elderly Kiwi, 30 Sep 2023
Traveller rating:

We hiked from Maggiore to Orta. We loved the experience which certainly exceeded our expectations. The scenery, food, accommo... read more

On Foot Holidays - Lake Maggiore by Keen hiker, 28 Sep 2023
Traveller rating:

A well thought out series of hikes around and from lake to lake. read more

On Foot Holidays - Lake Maggiore by NC Walker, 19 Sep 2023
Traveller rating:

Walking holiday from Lake Maggiore to Lake Orta organized by On Foot Holidays. read more

On Foot Holidays - Lake Maggiore by Poppy S, 22 Aug 2023
Traveller rating:

Self guided walking holiday from Lake Maggiore over the mountains to Lake Orta. Excellently organised by On Foot, including ... read more

On Foot Holidays - Lake Maggiore by Mrs E D 23, 15 Aug 2023
Traveller rating:

We were away 4 days & 5nights. Our 1st 2nights were on the lovely Isola Superiore in the middle of the lake. Every day we ... read more

On Foot Holidays - Lake Maggiore by CD, 15 Aug 2023
Traveller rating:

4 day self guided hike through Piedmont, Italy. The hikes were sufficiently challenging and varied. Great hotels with ... read more

On Foot Holidays - Lake Maggiore by Jezzer59, 2 Aug 2023
Traveller rating:

Walking holiday between Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta in northern Italy. Exacting walking staying in excellent accommodation... read more

On Foot Holidays - Lake Maggiore by Terry, 2 Jul 2023
Traveller rating:

This was a great hiking holiday with walks around Lake Maggiore and steep climbs up Mottorone, a mountain 1490 metres above ... read more

Overall Holiday Rating
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Reviews Submitted: 40
Reviews Accepted: 40
Reviews Rejected: 0
On Foot Holidays - Lake Maggiore by Booking 19708 S F 23, 27 Nov 2023
Traveller rating:

Wonderful adventure! Very organized, with details and all questions answered. read more

On Foot Holidays - Lake Maggiore by Eve K, 20 Oct 2023
Traveller rating:

Much of the Lake Maggiore walk was was in sight of Lakes Maggiore and Orta which we truly enjoyed. The trails in many parts ... read more