Lake Maggiore, Italy’s second largest lake, stretches for approximately 65 km between Italy and Switzerland, nestled between the majestic Alpine foothills. It is a glacial basin covering an area of approximately 212 km² and is characterized by an elongated shape that runs from north to south.
Geographically, the lake is divided between:
Italy, where the lake borders two regions: Lombardy (province of Varese) on the eastern shore and Piedmont (provinces of Novara and Verbano-Cusio-Ossola) on the western shore.
Switzerland, in the northern part (Canton of Ticino).
Lake Maggiore’s unique location makes it a strategic point for those traveling from Central Europe. In fact, Lake Maggiore is only:
1 hour and 30 minutes from Switzerland (Lugano)
About 3 hours from Austria via the San Bernardino Pass
Less than 4 hours from southern Germany (Munich)
This proximity to German-speaking countries has historically made the lake a destination.ta prediletta dai turisti nord-europei, che qui trovano un assaggio di mediterraneo e clima mite a poche ore di viaggio.
Why choose a holiday on the Lombardy shore of Lake Maggiore rather than the Piedmont shore?
Authenticity and tradition preserved
While the Piedmont shore of Lake Maggiore has been a renowned international tourist destination for decades, with its famous resorts like Stresa and the Borromean Islands, the Lombardy shore has retained a more authentic and far less commercial character.
Small villages like Campagnano, a hamlet in the municipality of Maccagno, con Pino, and Veddasca, still retain their timeless charm. Here you can discover:
- Ancient stone buildings that tell centuries of history
- Watermills that testify to the ingenuity of the local population
- Still active mountain pastures that keep centuries-old traditions alive
- Authentic local cuisine, based on local ingredients such as mountain cheeses, artisanal cured meats, and forest produce
Strolling through the cobbled streets of these villages, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time, far from the hustle and bustle of the most popular tourist destinations, on a true “immersive detox holiday.”
2. Good value for money
Another notable advantage of the Lombardy shore is its affordability. Accommodation, restaurant, and service prices are generally lower than on the more renowned and glamorous Piedmont coast.
This allows you to enjoy the same crystal-clear waters and spectacular views, but on a more accessible budget, making the Lombardy shore of Lake Maggiore ideal for:
- Families seeking a more affordable vacation
- Travelers seeking longer stays in touch with nature
- Those seeking authentic experiences with locals
- Remote workers or digital nomads seeking tranquility and inspiration
3. Paradise for outdoor enthusiasts
The morphological conformation of the Lombardy shore, with its steep slopes plunging into the lake, creates a perfect environment for athletes of all levels.
Water activities:
Sailing, thanks to the constant winds that blow across the lake
Kitesurfing, wingfoiling, and windsurfing, especially in the Maccagno and Tronzano areas
Canoeing and kayaking, ideal for exploring hidden coves
Stand-up paddleboarding, for a relaxing experience on the calm waters in the morning or while admiring a magical sunset
Mountain activities:
Hiking on a network of well-maintained CAI trails, some with lake views
Mountain biking on trails that wind through woods and ancient villages
Downhill, with adrenaline-pumping trails that descend from the mountains to the lake
Paragliding, to admire the lake from above and enjoy a breathtaking panorama
The uniqueness of this area is the possibility of combining mountain and lake activities in the same day: a high-altitude hike in the morning and a refreshing dip in the lake in the afternoon.
Water activities:
- Sailing, thanks to the constant winds that blow across the lake
- Kitesurfing, wingfoiling, and windsurfing, especially in the Maccagno and Tronzano areas
- Canoeing and kayaking, ideal for exploring hidden coves
- Stand-up paddleboarding, for a relaxing experience on calm morning waters or while admiring a magical sunset
Mountain Activities:
Hiking on a network of well-maintained CAI trails, some with lake views
Mountain biking on trails that wind through woods and ancient villages
Downhill biking, with adrenaline-pumping trails that descend from the mountains to the lake
Paragliding, to admire the lake from above and enjoy an extraordinary panorama
The uniqueness of this area is the ability to combine mountain and lake activities in the same day: a high-altitude hike in the morning and a refreshing dip in the lake in the afternoon.
The Charm of Campagnano: “The Balcony of Lake Maggiore”
The small hamlet of Campagnano deserves a special mention, where our Sunset View Lago Maggiore vacation home is located, a hidden gem overlooking Lake Maggiore. It’s no coincidence that it’s known as “the balcony of Lake Maggiore” due to its privileged location, offering unforgettable panoramic views of the entire lake basin.
Campagnano’s history is deeply rooted in antiquity: the village, strategically located on a natural promontory, was already inhabited in the Middle Ages, when it served as an important control point on the trade routes connecting the Lombardy plain with Switzerland. Its characteristic stone houses, often decorated with sumptuous frescoes, slate roofs, and wooden balconies bear witness to centuries of history and artisanal traditions.
In winter, the village has about a hundred inhabitants, creating an almost magical atmosphere of intimacy and tranquility. Here, time truly seems to have stood still, despite the frenetic pace we experience every day: narrow alleys wind between centuries-old houses, churches, and small squares unexpectedly open up, offering picturesque views. The family atmosphere is one of the aspects most appreciated by visitors.
It’s not uncommon for you to find yourself exchanging warm greetings with the residents after just a few days’ stay, always ready to share anecdotes and recommendations about the area.
Connections and Accessibility
It’s advisable to reach Campagnano by car, because although connections to Switzerland are efficient thanks to Trenord railways (with regular connections from Milan, Luino, and Maccagno), the bus service connecting Campagnano to Maccagno or Luino is unfortunately infrequent.
The Cadenazzo-Luino railway line, inaugurated in 1882, represented a turning point for the local economy, opening up new commercial and tourism opportunities between Switzerland and Italy. Even today, many Swiss choose this area for their holidays or even as a second home, attracted by the mild climate and relaxed atmosphere.
Hiking trails and hidden treasures
One of Campagnano’s main strengths is its strategic location as a starting point for excursions to enchanting and lesser-known spots on Lake Maggiore.
Numerous CAI trails begin right outside the Sunset View Lago Maggiore vacation home, leading to the lake or up to altitudes of 1,200 meters. Worthy of note is the route leading to Lake Delio, a reservoir created to supply the valley with electricity, a vital dam for the residents’ needs. You can follow the trail either on a paved road or through the woods, following well-marked signs, passing the charming village of Musignano until reaching the summit, a moderately challenging hike.
Among the hidden treasures, the trail leading to the Mulini di Piero, ancient watermills dating back to the 15th century, stands out. Powered by the waters of the Giona stream, these mills tell the story of a local economy based on grain processing. According to local tradition, during the plague described by Manzoni, these isolated structures became a refuge for residents fleeing the contagion, while also ensuring the production of flour for the surrounding communities.
For mountain lovers, a hike to the Forcora Pass (1,180 meters) is a must-see, offering 360-degree views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Just a few kilometers from the Swiss border, this pass is popular year-round: in summer for hiking and in winter for snowshoeing. During World War II, this area became an important transit point for smugglers and those trying to escape to Switzerland, and traces of this recent history can still be found along the trails.
Explore the lake and its attractions
Campagnano’s strategic location makes it easy to explore Lake Maggiore’s main attractions. Boats depart from the nearby Maccagno pier to connect the various lakeside towns, offering a charming alternative to driving.
The famous Borromean Islands are accessible via a pleasant boat ride. These pearls of the lake, with their sumptuous palaces and Italian gardens, are a must-see for anyone staying in the area. Isola Bella with its Baroque palace, the spectacular gardens of Villa Taranto, Isola Madre with its botanical garden, and Isola dei Pescatori with its picturesque village offer different but equally fascinating experiences.
Other must-see destinations nearby
Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso: a monastery literally clinging to the rock that rises above the lake. Legend has it that it was founded by a wealthy merchant who survived a shipwreck, as a sign of thanks to Saint Catherine of Alexandria. The vertiginous location and centuries-old history make this place a unique experience.
Laveno: A town with a historic ceramic tradition. Since the 18th century, it has been an important center for the production of artistic ceramics, and still hosts artisan workshops where you can watch master potters at work and purchase unique pieces.
Luino: An elegant Art Nouveau town, famous for its international Wednesday market, one of the largest in Europe. Strolling along the lakeside and the streets of the town center, you can admire splendid examples of Art Nouveau architecture, a testament to the Belle Époque, when the town became a favorite destination for intellectuals and artists.
Maccagno Imperiale: with its ancient village characterized by narrow alleys, arches, and covered passages that tell the story of the Romans. The Parisi Valle Civic Museum, housed in the ancient Palazzo dei Mandelli, preserves archaeological finds that testify to the long history of this settlement.
Conclusion
Next time you’re wondering where to go on vacation in Italy on Lake Maggiore, consider the Lombardy shore, particularly the area of Maccagno con Pino and Veddasca, with its little gem of Campagnano. You’ll discover a still authentic area, rich in traditions and views that will remain etched in your memory.
Do you want to experience the authentic Lake Maggiore?
