A blend of alpine and southern landscapes, the lakes of northern Italy offer timeless charm. Thanks to their particularly mild climate, their shores are covered with abundant vegetation. Lake Maggiore (Lago Maggiore), in particular, nestles in a lush setting of exotic vegetation straddling Italy and Switzerland. Along its shores are scattered small towns that are like jewels. An idyllic setting for your next camping holiday in Italy.
Our campsites on Lake Maggiore in Italy
Camping in a caravan, tent or motorhome facing the Borromean Islands
In the 15th century, a large part of Lake Maggiore was given as a fief to the Borromeo family, a wealthy Italian family. The latter gradually bought up all the islands in the small archipelago that stretches across the lake. It was therefore renamed the Borromean Islands. It consists of five islands, only three of which can be visited: Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola dei Pescatori. Isola Bella is entirely occupied by the Borromeo Palace, a perfect example of Lombard Baroque style. Built in the 17th century, this palace and its sumptuous gardens still bear witness to the splendour of a bygone era. Isola Madre is home to one of Italy’s most beautiful botanical gardens, covering eight hectares. Finally, Isola dei Pescatori has retained its fishing village atmosphere despite the influx of tourists during the summer. One of the most beautiful views of the Borromean Islands can be enjoyed from Mottarone (1,491 metres), which rises above the shores of the lake. On the other side of the lake, the summit of Sasso del Ferro (1,062 metres) also offers a wide panorama of the region. It can be reached by cable car from Laveno Mombello.
Stresa, the jewel of Lake Maggiore
Facing the Borromean Islands, the town of Stresa nestles on the shores of Lake Maggiore in Italy. This charming town has always attracted artists. Stendhal, Chateaubriand, Dumas, Dickens and Lord Byron all spent time here. Hemingway even chose it as the setting for much of his novel A Farewell to Arms. Stresa reached the height of its popularity in the early 20th century, as evidenced by the Belle Epoque buildings facing the lake. During your camping holiday on Lake Maggiore, follow in the footsteps of these great writers as you stroll through the streets of Stresa.
Verbiana, the largest town on Lake Maggiore
Verbiana is the largest town on Lake Maggiore. Its Pallanza district is a popular holiday resort. This district, which dates back to Roman times, stretches across a peninsula. It features hotels, villas and parks, as well as an elegant 19th-century town hall built on 32 arcades. The lakeside promenade offers beautiful views of the Borromean Islands. Not far away, the Intra district is the medieval centre of Verbiana. Its narrow streets are lively and home to many shops. Every Saturday morning, the largest weekly market on Lake Maggiore is held in Piazza del Mercato and Piazza Don Minzoni. The beautiful park of Villa Taranto serves as the border between the two districts. This park, which combines English and Italian styles, is one of the most important botanical gardens in the world. Covering nearly 16 hectares, it is home to some 20,000 species of plants and flowers.
Cannero Riviera
With its terraced houses hidden among vineyards, orange trees and olive groves above the lake, Cannero Riviera enjoys an idyllic setting. It is not surprising that such illustrious figures as Winston Churchill and Queen Victoria chose to stay here. As you visit Cannero Riviera, you will discover elegant villas, but above all a picturesque little port that has retained its old-world charm. Make the most of your stroll around Cannero Riviera to take a dip in the waters of Lake Maggiore. Nestled in a cove, Cannero Riviera beach is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches on Lake Maggiore.
Cannobio, last stop before Switzerland
The last town on the lake before the Swiss border, Cannobio is very popular with tourists. However, it did not take until the 21st century for this resort town to enjoy its heyday. The Romans already stayed here, and in the Middle Ages, a royal court took up residence. The town has preserved elegant palaces built between the 17th and 19th centuries, stone testimonies to its glorious past. Its promenade, lined with old fishermen’s houses, is one of the most beautiful on Lake Maggiore. The beautiful Piazza Vittorio Emanuele III, facing the old port, is one of Cannobio’s most popular places to visit.
Our selection of campsites on Lake Maggiore
On the shores of Lake Maggiore, or near the lake, discover our selection of campsites for caravans, tents or motorhomes in Italy.
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