Gardens of the italian lakes: Lakes Como, Maggiore and Garda

Gardens of the italian lakes: Lakes Como, Maggiore and Garda

The gardens of the Italian lakes are some of the most outstanding in Europe, beautiful in their design and range. The proposed tour is divided between Italy’s major lakes, Como, Maggiore and Garda, where each shore, each promontory and island has its own character, but everywhere is pervaded by light, perfume and natural beauty.

The journey starts from Maggiore, the second largest lake of Northern Italy, after Garda, extending northwards into Switzerland, with the air of an inland sea. The last part of the Piedmont shore of the lake possesses a variety of places of artistic and cultural interest. A pleasant stroll in the enchanting town of Belgirate leads You to the little gothic Church of Santa Maria, which dates from the 12th century. Throughout the 19th century the town attracted a number of famous people, who built the stunning villas with their gardens now seen alongside the townhouses of the local bourgeoisie. You will visit Villa Fontana, one of the oldest mansion houses in Belgirate, built by the Beretta family in the 18th century and purchased in 1892 by the famous Milan publisher Emilio Treves, who renamed the house “Villa Maria” in honor of his daughter. Admire its splendid English-style gardens. The journey continues to the lakeside town of Stresa, from where a private ferry boat takes You to the most stunning and characteristic places on Maggiore Lake, the Borromean Islands. You will first enjoy a short crossing to the breathtaking Isola Bella, which is one of the world’s beautiful island. Explore its 17th-Century Baroque Palazzo Borromeo, surrounded by scenographic gardens. Then stroll along the charming promenade of the tiny Isola dei Pescatori, and admire the lush vegetation on Isola Madre, noted for its botanical garden.

Before heading towards Como transfer to Verbania Pallanza to visit Villa Taranto, with its wide 20th century botanical gardens and plant collection. Then admire the richly frescoed Villa Cicogna Mozzoni in Bisuschio, a former hunting ground then a fabulous Renaissance house in the 16th century with a gorgeous garden, statues, fountains and grotto. Depart on a private boat trip to admire Villa Carlotta, on the western shore of Lake Como, famous for its magnificent botanic garden and art masterpieces. Then the neoclassical Villa Melzi at Bellagio with its early 19th century English style garden that inspired both Liszt and Stendhal. Villa del Balbianello, a late 18th century villa with spectacular gardens at the tip of a wooded promontory in the middle of Lake Como, is also worth a visit.

The tour allows You to explore Garda, the largest Italian lake, with its typical Mediterranean greenery. You will admire Gardone Riviera that owes its fame mostly to the Heller terrace gardens built at the beginning of the 20th century. Enjoy a private boat cruise around Catullo Caves, then continue to Lake Garda’s biggest island, Isola del Garda, which is still owned by the Cavazza Family. You will admire the impressive neo-Gothic villa and its gardens which are rich in local and exotic plants and unique flowers. End the tour by visiting Sirmione, a picturesque medieval town located on the south shore of Lake Garda.

The rate includes

• 2 overnights in 4 star hotels in Stresa or Baveno on BB basis;
• 2 overnights in 4 star hotels in Menaggio on BB basis;
• 2 overnight in 4 star hotels in Desenzano on BB basis;
• Private transfers as per program;
• Private boat as per program;
• Entrance fees as per program;
• Private local guide as per program;

• Assistant at disposal for the whole tour;
• Hotel city tax to be paid on spot;
• Tips (to chauffeur and driver);
• All items not specified in the chapter “the prices include”.