This beautiful lake is located in the Piedmonte and Lombardia regions of Italy. The lake is situated 194 metres or 640 feet above sea level. The Romans called this lake Lacus Verbanus, and part of it lies in Northern Italy and part of this majestic lake is shared with the town of Locarno, Switzerland. Lake Maggiore is the second largest of Italy’s northern lakes. Mountains encircle the Northern part of the lake, and the water is beautifully clear.

The climate near Lake Maggiore is mild and quite enjoyable. Here you will find a variety of different subtropical species such as figs, olives and pomegranates. Some of the most popular tourist areas include Locarno, Pallanza, Stressa and the magnificent Borromean Islands; with their subtropical parks is all part of what attracts visitors to Lake Maggiore. On Borromean Islands, you can also find oranges, lemons and palm trees.

Take a boat tour of the lake; boats are available all throughout the year between Locarno and Arona, as well as between the towns of Cannobio and Stresa, and between Verbania and Stressa. If you are driving, you can use the car ferry to shuttle your vehicle across the lake.

Make sure to visit the Statue of Saint Carlo Borromeo. G.B. Crespi, an Italian artist also known as Cerano, designed this gigantic copper statue, which was erected in 1697. The statue is located on a hill, which overlooks the town of Arona. It measures an incredible 33 metres or 108 feet. Up to six people can fit in the head alone, and if you look out from behind the eyes of the statue, the view is simply spectacular! This is a monument that should not be missed!

Lake Maggiore also offers its visitors the wonderful Isola Madre (or Mother Island), which is located between the Isola dei Pescatori (Fisherman’s Island) and the town of Pallanza. Isola Madre belongs to the Borromeo family. The grounds are luxurious and have fantastic botanical displays. The gardens are luscious and display a wide variety of vegetation. There is even an uninhabited palace located on the island, which is still quite beautiful to behold.

Whether you are visiting Villa Taranto’s outdoor park, or admiring the spectacular views from atop Mount Zeda, or visiting Madonna di Campagna Church, which contains frescoes by Lanino and Procaccini, Lake Maggiore is a magnificent part of Italy, which is just waiting for you to explore her shores.