Mountains and Lakes of North Piedmont

As the main road into the Aosta valley, make sure you stop for a panoramic picture of another great small Italian town. This Bridge has been around since AD 100 and was originally built with wood and has been since changed to stone in the 17th century.

This is the best option for parking your car without having to get into the narrow streets of Orta. Get ready to stretch your legs and explore the town.

Take some time to explore the small town of Orta. As you walk along the coast, you'll see why this lake is a hidden gem of all the lakes in the northern region. You'll feel like you are walking in the middle of a movie and just waiting for the director to yell "Cut!".
As you approach this statue, you can just imagine how easy it is for artists to get inspired here. There is a beautiful wisteria garden that if visit during the early weeks of May, you can catch the spectacular purple bloom that just adds that final touch for a perfect picture.

Get an incredible view of Saint Julius Island during your lunch visit. You'll find an extensive wine list and delicious fish dishes.
Open everyday: 8:00 AM-12:00 AM

This is where you can take a ferry boat to St. Julius Island. Round trip tickets are $4.50 and leave every 15 minutes and take about 10 minutes to arrive. Once you arrive at the island, the Basilica will be one of the first things you see.
Check the schedule of ferries on this website

Walk around the entire Island but start here first. The frescos are impressive and there is so much history to unpack on this island that you won't be disappointed. Make sure you walk around the "silent and peaceful" path for a moment of zen.

Get right back on the ferry boat for your return to Orta. Ferries leave every 15 minutes and take about 10 minutes to get back to the mainland.

Enjoy the last views of the Lake as you return to your car.

Another quick pit stop to admire Lake Maggiore, Italy's second largest lake. If you didn't get Gelato while visiting Italy, did you even come to Italy?
Grab your gelato to-go and take a quick walk around the city center of Arona and return along the coast.

End your 3-day trip with a woodfire pizza and a great local Italian beer. This place gets a bit busy on the weekend so it's best to make a reservation. Just give them a call the same day and you should be good to go. 0331 636745 Open: Monday-Thursday 12:00 PM-2:30 PM- 6:00 PM-10:30 PM Friday: 12:00 PM-2:30 PM- 6:00 PM-11:30 PM Saturday and Sunday: 6:00 PM-11:30 PM