Romantic Italian Lakes
SCHEDULED GROUP SIZE with guaranteed departure: min 1 – max 18 guests
PRIVATE GROUP SIZE: min 1 – no limit
DURATION: 7 Days & 6 Nights
WALK RATING: 2+ click here
HOTEL STYLE: very comfortable to stylish – ensuite bathroom
CLOSEST AIRPORTS: Milan (MXP)
OPTION TO COMBINE THIS TRIP BACK TO BACK WITH OTHER WALK ABOUT ITALY TRIPS. Click here 2024
Scheduled Tours
2025 dates
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May 9-15
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June 20-26 (in collaboration with Linda Kriel, South African fitenss guru)
- Sept 14-20
Overview
Introducing the Italian Lakes
Embark on a captivating Italian Lakes adventure with a meticulously crafted 7-day walking tour.
So easy to reach: 1 hours by train from the Milan airport!
Each day we walk an average 3 km (1,8 miles).
Begin in Como with a charming walking tour and delectable dinner. Traverse Lake Como by boat, exploring Bellagio and visiting Villa Melzi. Discover the picturesque villages of Varenna and Lenno, marveling at historic sites and enjoying scenic hikes. On Lake Maggiore, In Stresa, explore the Borromean Islands, with visits to Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Bella. Experience the natural beauty of Lake Orta, hiking its shores and exploring Isola di San Giulio. Indulge in wine tasting at Rovellotti Winery, a scenic hike to Molino del Sabbione, and gelato tasting at L’Agrifoglio Farm. Conclude the journey with an aperitivo at La Palma. This immersive itinerary promises a blend of history, nature, and culinary delights, creating unforgettable memories along the stunning Italian Lakeshores.
Whether you prefer joining a small group or opting for a private experience, the decision is yours to make. Tailor your adventure to suit your preferences and explore the beauty of the Italian Lakes in a manner that truly speaks to you.
Inclusions
6 night stay at 4 starred hotels, with ensuite bathroom. All the hotels are conveniently located in the town historical centers. Two out of three hotels have a swimming pool. Book early and we will try to accommodate you in a room with a view.
All breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners. Local wine is always included with lunches and dinners. Vegetarian? Vegan? No problem!
Transportation along the tour
We carry your luggage from hotel to hotel
Group tours: 1 local guide for groups smaller than 10. Groups larger than 10 people will be guided by 2 local guides. Private tours will be guided by 1 local guide
Entrance tickets for all the special events and museum-villas
wine tasting at Cantina Rovellotti
All taxes
Itinerary
Romantic Italian Lakes Tour Map
Day 1: Arrival Extravaganza! Let the adventure begin! We’ll kick off our Italian Lakes walking tour with a charming meeting at 4:00 PM in the Hotel Como, followed by an enchanting stroll through the picturesque streets of Como. Cap off the day with a scrumptious dinner in Como before a restful night at Hotel Como.
3 km = 1,8 miles
Albergo del Duca – Como
dinner
Day 2: Bellagio Bliss On the second day it’s all about embracing the beauty of Bellagio! After a quick taxi transfer and a scenic boat ride from Como, we’ll explore Bellagio’s charm. Enjoy a leisurely lunch before diving into the elegance of Villa Melzi. Choose between a tranquil transfer to Varenna or an adventurous hike to the stunning Castle of Vezio. The day concludes with a boat journey back to Como, where a delightful dinner awaits at the hotel.
3,7 km = 2,3 miles
Albergo del Duca – Como
breakfast – dinner
SHOW DAY 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Day 3: Tremezzo Treasures This day promises a day of grandeur. Glide from Como to Tremezzo by boat, where Villa Carlotta beckons with its mesmerizing gardens. A picnic lunch amidst the splendor is in order. Continue your journey along the greenway to Lenno, where the exquisite Villa Balbianello awaits. After a picturesque bus transfer to Stresa, savor a delectable dinner at Hotel Regina.
6,2 km = 3,8 miles
Hotel Milan Speranza au Lac – Stresa
breakfast – lunch – dinner
Day 4: Island Escapade On the 4th day we invite you to explore the wonders of Lake Maggiore’s islands. Embark on a boat trip to the 3 Isole and discover the enchanting Isola Madre and Isola dei Pescatori. With a free evening, indulge in the culinary delights Stresa has to offer.
3 km = 1,8 miles
Hotel Milan Speranza au Lac – Stresa
breakfast – lunch
Day 5: Orta Odyssey The day unfolds with a scenic bus transfer to Orta San Giulio. Embark on a captivating hike around Lake Orta, followed by a boat journey to the picturesque Isola di San Giulio. Delight in a sumptuous lunch at Ristorante San Giulio before more lakeside hiking. Return to Stresa by bus and enjoy a relaxed evening with dinner at your leisure.
3,5 km = 2,2 miles
Hotel Milan Speranza au Lac – Stresa
breakfast – lunch
Day 6: Wine and Wanderlust Sunday, September 29th is a day of indulgence! Traverse the scenic landscapes from Stresa to Ghemme, where a wine-tasting extravaganza at Cantina Rovellotti awaits. Continue to Montrigiasco for a charming hike and a delectable lunch at Molino del Sabbione. Conclude the day with a visit to Azienda agricola L’Agrifoglio for a delightful gelato tasting. The evening wraps up with an apericena at La Palma.
3 km = 1,8 miles
Hotel Milan Speranza au Lac – Stresa
breakfast – lunch – dinner
Day 7: Fond Farewell On this departing day bid farewell to the enchanting Italian Lakes. Depart with cherished memories of breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and the warmth of the Italian hospitality. Arrivederci!
breakfast
note on the itinerary
Please bear in mind that this is a typical itinerary, and the actual walks and sites may vary due to season, special events, or weather. We reserve the right to alter the itinerary since tour arrangements are made up to a year in advance, and in unforeseen circumstances that mandate changes may arise. Itinerary changes are made to improve the tour and your experience.
FOOD
Savor the flavors of the Lakes region (Como, Maggiore, Orta) with delectable dishes. Enjoy Lake Como’s Risotto with Perch Fish & Lemon, Lake Maggiore’s Lavarello Fish, and Lake Orta’s Miascia cake and Polenta. Indulge in local cheeses, like Formaggella di Tremosine. Complete your culinary journey with Panettone and a sip of locally produced wines. Taste the essence of these lakes through their distinctive and delicious cuisine.
panettone
polenta
formaggella
Ghemme wine
2025 tour Accommodations (all with en-suite bathrooms)
Albergo del Duca: Stay in a historic place in the city
In the heart of the walled city, near the famous shores of Lake Como, Albergo del Duca offers its guests a warm and family-friendly welcome, along with the most modern comforts.
Born from the recent renovation of a 17th-century building, the hotel allows you to enjoy the tranquility typical of a charming corner in the city’s historic center.
Hotel Milan Speranza: Elegance and Comfort in the Heart of Stresa
Hotel Milan Speranza, located in the heart of Stresa on Lake Maggiore, offers a blend of tradition and modern comfort. The hotel consists of two historic buildings, “Milan” and “Speranza,”. Rooms are equipped with modern amenities like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and satellite TV. The hotel’s restaurant serves Italian and international cuisine, and guests can relax in the stylish bar or explore nearby gardens. With its central location, it’s ideal for visiting local attractions, providing a memorable stay for travelers.
Price
2025 Scheduled group tour
sharing double room- Do you need your own double room for single use? 290 Euro ONLY!!! single supplement
- deposit 300 EURO
- balance is due 95 days ahead of trip beginning date
- you can pay in instalments
2025 Private tour
| Number of guests | price in double room (euros) | single supplement (euros) |
| 1 | contact us | |
| 2 or 3 | interested? Let us know | 290 |
| 4 or 5 | interested? Let us know | 290 |
| 6 or 7 | interested? Let us know | 290 |
| 8 or 9 | interested? Let us know | 290 |
| 10 or 11 | interested? Let us know | 290 |
| 12 or more | interested? Let us know | 290 |
More guests? Please ask us a quote. We can also tailor the tour to your needs.
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deposit 300 EURO
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balance is due 95 days ahead of trip beginning date
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you can pay in instalments
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if you travel in July or August there is a seasonal surcharge of 400 euro per person
Guides
Gianni
Founder, trip organizer and guide at Walk About Italy (with a degree in Geology)
I am 51 years old. Geology is my background (Ph.D.) but to me life is about more than an academic degree. Music and walking are my passions. I have been a certified guide for nature walks since 1999. After working many years as a guide and also in the back stage of the travel industry for foreign walking tour companies, I earned my Tour Organizer business license, valid in Italy and the rest of the world. Let me organize your vacation to Tuscany and other parts of Italy.
Tours he guides: all Walk About Italy tours
Erica
Walking changed my life!
Erica was born in San Gimignano from Italian dad and Scottish mum.
Her background is as Sales Executive in an export company but after 10 years she decided to leave the office, change her life and make a job out of her passions: walking, nature, art, living outdoor and meeting new people and cultures. Now Erica is a licensed hiking and city guide and her aim is to let you love Tuscany as much as she does!
Tours she guides: Tuscany, Amalfi and Italian Lakes
Roberto
Roberto - Climbing is my passion (with a degree in biology)
Roberto was born and raised in a small village on Amiata mountain, 50 miles south of Siena. Although his background is in biology he is very keen on traditions and history of Tuscany.
His passion is climbing. He is a climbing instructor and rescuer. Do not worry! He is happy to walk with you on flat terrain 🙂
Roberto is definitely a people-person. He took several courses at “The Academy of Experiential Education” about “group dynamics”.
Tours he guides: Tuscany, Umbria & Undiscovered Tuscany and Italian Lakes
Trip facts
group meets here:
- (June 12-18, 2024 tour) Centrale Hotel in Cernobbio Via Regina, 39, Cernobbio
- (Sept 24-30, 2024 tour) Como Hotel in Como Via Mentana, 28, Como
at what time?
4.00 PM
trip ends here:
Stresa train station
at what time?
9.30 AM
Useful information on the tour
How to prepare for this trip
Walking or jogging for 60 minutes 3 times a week for 5 weeks ahead of trip will make your experience more enjoyable. In case you live in a flat area you might also incorporate some steps in your physical activity.
What to bring:
- Walking shoes with good traction (sometimes we might have mud on the trail)
- Hat, Swimming suit, sun cream, water bottle to refill with tap water
- Dinners at Italian restaurants do not require any special dress code.
Wear shoes with good traction. - We provide walking sticks.
An average day of the trip
On a typical day you hike/walk with your guide in the morning for 3 hours, then we stop at a restaurant or farmhouse for lunch (lunch can last 1hour and half). We serve local food and wines.
In the afternoon there might be some more walking or town stroll. Around 4.30 or 5pm your guide will take you back to the hotel.
Before dinner you will be able to rest a couple of hours.
Dinner will be served in a restaurant in town that you will be able to easily reach on foot.
Local wine is always included for lunch or dinner. We serve vino della casa (house wine). You are welcome to buy your own wine from the list.
Weather
In general, the climate in the Italian Lakes is very mild. Usually summers on the coast are hot with little or no rain. July and August are the hottest months (but still nice for walking as there is always a breeze blowing up on the hills). Spring (April and May) and Autumn (October and November) are milder. You can have some drops of rain but not too many. Winter is colder but you still can count on many sunny days.
Month avg. High avg. Low
Apr 66 °F (19 °C) 46 °F (8 °C)
May 73 °F (23 °C) 54 °F (12 °C)
Jun 81 °F (27 °C) 59 °F (15 °C)
Sep 81 °F (27 °C) 59 °F (15 °C)
Oct 72 °F (22 °C) 52 °F (11 °C)
Nov 61 °F (16 °C) 45 °F (7 °C)
Tipping your guides and drivers
Do not feel obligated to tip your guides and drivers but if you wish to do so please remember that our dedicated tour guides and drivers work tirelessly to ensure you have a memorable and enriching experience during your journey. Tipping is a common practice to show appreciation for their hard work and expertise.
Extra expenses
Plan to have extra cash or money in your credit card enough to buy a couple of coffee or tea every day (5 euros average) . One night out of six you are on your own for dinner (20-25 euros per meal per person, average)
Snapshots from the tour
