We Love —
- Strolling along Baveno’s scenic lakefront promenade, admiring the Borromean Islands shimmering on the water, framed by the dramatic Alpine foothills.
- Savouring a light lunch on Isola Bella, where delicate lake fish and crisp white wine are served with panoramic views of baroque gardens and peacocks roaming freely.
- Gliding across the waters of Lake Garda towards Sirmione, watching the medieval Scaligero Castle rise majestically from the lake as the boat gently approaches its historic harbour.
New Voyage Privé —
Carefully selected by our experts especially for you
Your itinerary in brief —
Drifting between timeless lakeside villages and elegant gardens, this journey unveils the quiet grandeur of northern Italy’s most enchanting waters. From the serene shores of Lake Maggiore to the storybook charm of Lake Garda, each stop reveals a world of baroque palaces, hidden chapels, and panoramic terraces.
Wander through the opulent halls of Palazzo Borromeo, where cascading terraces meet the lake, or glide towards the medieval ramparts of Sirmione, rising ethereally from the water’s edge. Evenings invite a slower pace - sipping local wines on sun-drenched piazzas or dining in candlelit courtyards where Lombardy’s culinary heritage comes to life.
Beyond the well-trodden paths, this itinerary offers a deeper connection to the region’s quieter marvels. Discover the poetic solitude of Orta San Giulio, an island wrapped in history and silence, or ascend Monte Baldo’s heights for an unrivalled perspective over Lake Garda’s shimmering expanse. Along the way, botanical gardens burst with rare flora, hidden monasteries whisper their centuries-old secrets, and cobbled streets lead to moments of unexpected beauty. This is Italy’s lake district at its most refined - a delicate balance of culture, landscape, and lingering moments of pure indulgence.
Choose from the following itineraries:
4 night itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrival in Baveno – and a warm lakeside welcome
- Day 2: Explore the Borromean Islands
- Day 3: Discover Lake Orta & San Giulio
- Day 4: Transfer to Lake Garda & Peschiera
- Day 5: Departure
5 night itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrival in Baveno – and a warm lakeside welcome
- Day 2: Discover the Borromean Islands
- Day 3: Lake Orta & the Sacred Mount
- Day 4: Transfer to Lake Garda & Peschiera
- Day 5: Discover Sirmione & its timeless beauty
- Day 6: Departure
7 night itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrival in Baveno – and a warm lakeside welcome
- Day 2: Discover the Borromean Islands
- Day 3: Lake Orta & the Island of Silence
- Day 4: Visit Villa Taranto & discover its panoramic views
- Day 5: Transfer to Lake Garda & Peschiera
- Day 6: Discover Sirmione & its timeless beauty
- Day 7: Monte Baldo & Medieval Lazise
- Day 8: Departure
Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.
Your itinerary in detail —
4 night itinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN BAVENO
- Check into Hotel Rosa, a refined four-star property in the heart of Baveno.
- Take time to relax and acclimatise to the tranquil lakeside atmosphere.
- Enjoy a stroll along the Borromean Gulf, where mountains reflect in the shimmering waters.
- Visit the Church of Santi Gervaso e Protaso, home to a Romanesque baptistery and historical artefacts.
Overnight stay as per the itinerary at Hotel Rosa in Baveno.
Breakfast included.
DAY 2: DISCOVERING THE BORROMEAN ISLANDS
- Depart for Stresa and take a boat tour of the Borromean Islands.
- Visit Isola Bella and explore the lavish Palazzo Borromeo, with its ornate interiors and Italian gardens.
- Stroll through Isola dei Pescatori, a picturesque fishing village with cobbled streets and traditional balconies.
- Return to Isola Bella for a lakeside lunch at Ristorante Elvezia, featuring a local fish platter.
- End the day on Isola Madre, renowned for its botanical gardens and intimate palazzo housing rare artworks.
Overnight stay as per the itinerary at Hotel Rosa in Baveno.
Breakfast included.
DAY 3: TRANSFER TO LAKE GARDA – DISCOVERING PESCHIERA DEL GARDA
- Travel to Ponti sul Mincio and check into Relais Corte Cavalli, a charming country retreat.
- Unwind at the hotel’s outdoor pool, surrounded by rolling vineyards.
- Visit Peschiera del Garda, a lakeside town enclosed by UNESCO-listed Venetian walls.
- Stroll along scenic canals and explore artisan boutiques in the historic centre.
Overnight stay as per the itinerary at Hotel Rosa in Baveno.
Breakfast included.
DAY 4: BOAT EXPLORATION OF SIRMIONE PENINSULA
- Embark on a boat tour around Sirmione, admiring lakeside villas and lush cypress trees.
- Visit the Scaliger Castle, a perfectly preserved medieval fortress with panoramic views.
- Walk to the Grotte di Catullo, the ruins of an ancient Roman villa overlooking the lake.
Overnight stay as per the itinerary at Relais Corte Cavalli on Lake Garda.
Breakfast included.
DAY 5: DEPARTURE
- Enjoy a final breakfast at Relais Corte Cavalli before checking out and departing for home, or pastures new...
5 night itinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN BAVENO
- Check into Hotel Rosa, a refined four-star property in the heart of Baveno.
- Take time to relax and acclimatise to the tranquil lakeside setting.
- Stroll along the Borromean Gulf, where shimmering waters reflect the surrounding mountains.
- Visit the Church of Santi Gervaso e Protaso, home to a Romanesque baptistery and centuries of history.
Overnight stay as per the itinerary at Hotel Rosa in Baveno.
Breakfast included.
DAY 2: DISCOVERING THE BORROMEAN ISLANDS
- Depart for Stresa and set off on a boat tour of the Borromean Islands.
- Explore Isola Bella’s Palazzo Borromeo, with its opulent interiors and Italian-style gardens.
- Wander through Isola dei Pescatori, a charming fishing village with cobbled streets and traditional balconies.
- Enjoy a refined lakeside lunch at Ristorante Elvezia on Isola Bella, featuring local fish specialities.
- Conclude the day on Isola Madre, home to exotic botanical gardens and an intimate noble residence.
Overnight stay as per the itinerary at Hotel Rosa in Baveno.
Breakfast included.
DAY 3: LAKE ORTA AND SAN GIULIO ISLAND
- Travel 25 miles to Orta San Giulio, a romantic medieval village on Lake Orta.
- Explore Piazza Motta, the historic heart of the town, and browse artisan workshops and cafés.
- Take a boat to San Giulio Island, home to a Benedictine abbey and the mystical ‘Way of Silence’.
- Hike up to the Sacro Monte di Orta, a UNESCO-listed site with frescoed chapels dedicated to St. Francis.
Overnight stay as per the itinerary at Hotel Rosa in Baveno.
Breakfast included.
DAY 4: TRANSFER TO LAKE GARDA – DISCOVERING PESCHIERA DEL GARDA
- Journey to Ponti sul Mincio and check into Relais Corte Cavalli, a countryside retreat with vineyard views.
- Unwind at the hotel’s outdoor pool, surrounded by rolling hills.
- Visit Peschiera del Garda, a lakeside town enclosed by UNESCO-listed Venetian walls.
- Walk along scenic canals and explore the charming historic centre.
Overnight stay as per the itinerary at Relais Corte Cavalli on Lake Garda.
Breakfast included.
DAY 5: BOAT EXPLORATION OF SIRMIONE PENINSULA
- Embark on a boat tour around Sirmione, passing elegant lakeside villas and ancient cypress groves.
- Visit the Scaliger Castle, a striking medieval fortress offering panoramic views.
- Walk to the Grotte di Catullo, the remains of a grand Roman villa overlooking the lake.
Overnight stay as per the itinerary at Relais Corte Cavalli on Lake Garda.
Breakfast included.
DAY 6: DEPARTURE
- Enjoy a final breakfast at Relais Corte Cavalli before checking out and departing for home, or pastures new...
7 night itinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN BAVENO
- Check into Hotel Rosa, an elegant four-star hotel in the heart of Baveno.
- Unwind and drink in the tranquil lakeside atmosphere.
- Amble at a leisurely pace along the Borromean Gulf, where shimmering waters reflect the surrounding mountains.
- Visit the Church of Santi Gervaso e Protaso, home to a Romanesque baptistery rich in history.
Overnight stay as per the itinerary at Hotel Rosa in Baveno.
Breakfast included.
DAY 2: DISCOVERING THE BORROMEAN ISLANDS
- Depart for Stresa and embark on a boat tour of the Borromean Islands.
- Visit Isola Bella’s Palazzo Borromeo, with its grand baroque interiors and Italianate gardens.
- Explore Isola dei Pescatori, a charming fishing village with cobbled lanes and traditional wooden balconies.
- Enjoy a refined lunch at Ristorante Elvezia, featuring local lake fish specialities.
- End the day on Isola Madre, famous for its botanical gardens and intimate noble residence.
Overnight stay as per the itinerary at Hotel Rosa in Baveno.
Breakfast included.
DAY 3: LAKE ORTA AND SAN GIULIO ISLAND
- Set off this morning for Orta San Giulio, a medieval village on Lake Orta (25 miles distant).
- Wander through Piazza Motta, the town’s lively historic square, and explore artisan boutiques and cafés.
- Take a boat to San Giulio Island, home to an ancient Benedictine abbey and the mystical ‘Way of Silence’.
- Hike to the Sacro Monte di Orta, a UNESCO-listed site with frescoed chapels dedicated to St. Francis.
Overnight stay as per the itinerary at Hotel Rosa in Baveno.
Breakfast included.
DAY 4: BOTANICAL GARDENS OF VILLA TARANTO
- Visit the Botanical Gardens of Villa Taranto, one of Europe's most spectacular gardens.
- Stroll among exotic plants, seasonal blooms, and panoramic views of Lake Maggiore.
- Spend the afternoon in Stresa, exploring elegant historic villas and boutique shops.
- Opt for a cable car ride to Mottarone (reopening in 2025) for breathtaking views of seven lakes. Please note that this is an optional activity and incurs and extra charge.
Overnight stay as per the itinerary at Hotel Rosa in Baveno.
Breakfast included.
DAY 5: TRANSFER TO LAKE GARDA – DISCOVERING PESCHIERA DEL GARDA
- Travel to Ponti sul Mincio and check into Relais Corte Cavalli, a countryside retreat with lovely vineyard views.
- Relax at the hotel’s outdoor pool, set amid rolling hills.
- Visit Peschiera del Garda, a picturesque town enclosed by UNESCO-listed Venetian walls.
- Enjoy a scenic lakeside walk and explore the charming historic centre.
Overnight stay as per the itinerary at Relais Corte Cavalli on Lake Garda.
Breakfast included.
DAY 6: BOAT EXPLORATION OF SIRMIONE PENINSULA
- Embark on a boat tour around Sirmione, passing historic lakeside villas and cypress groves.
- Explore the Scaliger Castle, a striking medieval fortress offering panoramic views.
- Walk to the Grotte di Catullo, the remains of an ancient Roman villa overlooking the lake.
Overnight stay as per the itinerary at Relais Corte Cavalli on Lake Garda.
Breakfast included.
DAY 7: MONTE BALDO AND VISIT TO LAZISE
- Travel today to Malcesine, one of Lake Garda’s most scenic towns.
- Take the panoramic cable car to Monte Baldo, known as ‘Europe’s botanical garden’.
- Admire the breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
- Visit Lazise, a medieval town with ancient walls, a charming port, and a lively waterfront promenade.
- Explore the Church of San Nicolò, featuring well-preserved 12th-century frescoes.
- Discover local delicacies such as Garda olive oil and fine regional wines.
Overnight stay as per the itinerary at Relais Corte Cavalli on Lake Garda.
Breakfast included.
DAY 8: DEPARTURE
- Enjoy a final breakfast at Relais Corte Cavalli before checking out and departing for home, or pastures new...
Important information about your tour and visits:
The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change without affecting the overall experience of the itinerary.
Your hotels —
Hand-picked just for you
Maximum room capacity
During your journey, you will stay at the following hotels (or similar) which have been caefully selected for your comfort and conveneience:
Lake Maggiore: Hotel Rosa
Lake Garda: Relais Corte Cavalli
The hotels listed in the programme meet local standards. In case these hotels are unavailable, accommodation of a similar category will be provided.
Your dining choices
This is a bed & breakfast stay.
Choose to upgrade to half board at the next step of the booking process. Breakfast and your evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (drinks excluded, conditions apply.)
Your journey to northern Italy —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Your destination —
The Italian Lakes
A land of serene waters and timeless elegance, Italy’s lakes region offers an exquisite blend of nature, culture, and refined living. From the grand villas of Lake Como to the island gardens of Lake Maggiore and the sun-drenched shores of Lake Garda, this journey unveils a world of aristocratic retreats, historic towns, and enchanting landscapes. Whether admiring Renaissance frescoes, gliding across the water in a vintage Riva boat, or sipping a glass of Lugana beneath a cypress tree, this is Italy at its most poetic.
Must-sees:
- Villa del Balbianello (Lake Como) – A secluded 18th-century villa with terraced gardens overlooking the lake, famed for its literary and cinematic history.
- Isola Madre (Lake Maggiore) – The lesser-known Borromean Island, home to a rare English-style botanical garden and an intimate, art-filled palazzo.
- Vittoriale degli Italiani (Lake Garda) – The extravagant hillside estate of poet Gabriele D’Annunzio, filled with curiosities from his flamboyant life.
Culinary culture:
The lakes region is a meeting point of Alpine and Mediterranean flavours. Missoltini, sun-dried lake fish, is a Como speciality, while risotto al pesce persico highlights the delicate perch of Lake Maggiore. Around Lake Garda, citrus groves and olive trees yield fragrant oils and liqueurs, with the saffron fields of Tignale adding a golden touch to regional dishes. Pair these with wines such as Franciacorta, Italy’s refined answer to Champagne, or Groppello, a little-known red from the hills of Valtenesi.
Dive deeper:
Beyond the villas and promenades, discover medieval frescoes in Monastero di Santa Caterina del Sasso, perched dramatically on a cliff above Lake Maggiore. Explore the Orrido di Nesso, a hidden waterfall cascading through a gorge on Lake Como. At Lake Garda, take the Sentiero del Ponale, an ancient mountain path offering spectacular lake views once reserved for Austrian military patrols.
Good to know:
The ideal time to visit is: late spring to early autumn, when ferries run frequently and outdoor cafés come alive. Many historic villas close in winter, and some smaller islands have limited access. Transport is seamless, with scenic boat routes linking key towns, but hiring a car allows for off-the-beaten-path discoveries, from medieval hilltop villages to hidden wine estates.
Lake Maggiore
Nestled between majestic alpine peaks and serene waters, Lake Maggiore has long been a haven for writers and artists seeking tranquillity and inspiration. With its elegant villas, lush gardens, and charming lakeside villages, this storied destination offers a refined retreat steeped in history and natural beauty.
Must-sees:
- Isola Bella – A masterpiece of Baroque landscaping, the island’s grand palazzo and terraced gardens provide a glimpse into aristocratic splendour.
- Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso – Perched on a sheer cliff, this 14th-century monastery offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Angera’s Rocca Borromeo – A medieval fortress housing a fascinating museum of dolls and childhood memorabilia, with panoramic vistas over the lake.
Culinary culture:
Lake Maggiore’s cuisine is a blend of Piedmontese and Lombard traditions, enriched by fresh lake fish and Alpine produce. Local specialities include perch risotto, marinated whitefish, and mortadella di fegato, a rich, spiced liver sausage. Pair these with a glass of Ghemme or Boca, elegant red wines from the northern shores.
Dive deeper:
Beyond its famous sights, Lake Maggiore rewards the curious with hidden gems. Explore the ancient Sacri Monti, UNESCO-listed devotional complexes with frescoed chapels and scenic walking trails. In the Val Grande National Park, the largest wilderness area in Italy, remote paths lead through forests and abandoned hamlets, revealing a forgotten rural past.
Good to know:
The ideal time to visit is spring and early autumn, when the lake’s atmosphere is at its most tranquil. While ferries connect major towns and islands, hiring a private boat allows for a more intimate discovery of secluded bays and elegant lakeside villas.
Lake Garda
Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, is a stunning natural gem surrounded by towering mountains and crystal-clear waters. Known for its serene landscapes, charming villages, and outdoor adventures, the lake offers an ideal mix of relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or thrilling activities, Lake Garda promises a memorable experience.
Must-sees:
- Boat tours: Explore the lake by hydrofoil or a leisurely boat, visiting islands such as Isola del Garda, renowned for its gardens and historic villa.
- Monte Baldo: Take the cable car for panoramic views and access to hiking trails in the lush alpine terrain.
- Brenzone sul Garda: A tranquil lakeside retreat offering relaxation, hiking, and breathtaking lake views.
Culinary culture:
Lake Garda’s cuisine reflects its unique setting, with dishes like bigoli con le sarde, rustic pasta with lake sardines, and freshly caught lavarello. The region is also famous for its delicate olive oil and Lugana wine, a crisp white perfect for pairing with fish. For dessert, enjoy the fragrant torta di rose, inspired by the area's floral landscapes.
Dive deeper:
Explore the rich history and culture with visits to medieval treasures like Sirmione, featuring the Scaliger Castle and the ancient Grotte di Catullo ruins. Discover the charm of Lazise, a picturesque town with cobbled streets and a lively lakeside atmosphere.
Good to know:
The ideal times to visit are spring and early autumn when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are fewer. Lake Garda is easily accessible by ferries, buses, and nearby airports like Verona, though renting a car offers greater flexibility for exploring hidden gems. Be sure to pack comfortable shoes and sunscreen for hiking and lakeside walks.
