Villa Lago Maggiore is based in Arolo, Leggiuno. Arolo is a beautiful old lakeside village, famous for its unspoilt beach and harbour.
Arolo only has a few restaurants, but they are high quality and it is close to many other towns and villages with lots to offer. The east side of Lake Maggiore is a quiet haven and Arolo itself is not really known to tourists. Therefore enjoy your time here and mix with locals, who are very friendly, especially to families.
A few of our favourite activities close to the Villa:
1. Visit Arolo's beach
The house has direct access to the beach area, which has a good cafe/bar and children's playground, as well as a large grassed area to sit and steps down to the lake for swimming.
We're based on the east side of the lake, so you will enjoy plenty of sun!
2. Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso
Photo source: Santa Caterinadel Sasso
Situated in the cliffs above the lake you will find a magical old monastery and a 14th century 15-meter high Belltower. The Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso is a fusion of three chapels, built separately in three different eras between the 13th-17th century. The church walls play host to a series of story-telling art pieces dating from 14th-19th century. And you're treated to a breathtaking view from the balcony looking out over Borromeo Gulf, Stresa and the islands.
The monastery is a 2 km drive or 3 km walk from the villa - we highly recommend a visit during your stay.
Read more on TripAdvisor. or via the official monastery site.
3. Rent a boat in Reno, Nautica Costantini
Photo source: Nautica Costantini
If you're visiting Lake Maggiore, getting out on the lake to enjoy the views is a must! My family and I use Nautica Costantini, who offer a brilliant range of boat rentals, suitable for families, with no need for a licence. Prices start from € 150 for a half-day (4 hours of navigation) or € 200 for a full day (8 hours of navigation).
The company offer a safe and enjoyable experience and are within walking distance of the villa.
4. Cittiglio Waterfalls:
The three Cittiglio waterfalls are formed by a small river, the San Giulio. To reach the falls, you'll need to head to the small village of Cittiglio, where there's space to park, and then a 30-minute walk is required. The waterfalls are between 324 and 474 metres high and based in beautiful woodland surroundings. Bring suitable walking shoes, a picnic and a swimsuit so you can enjoy a dip in the fresh natural water.
5. Hiking, canoeing, mountain biking
You'll find a canoe in the garage at the villa. You're more than welcome to take it out on the lake. We recently took it out and made our way from Arolo to Santa Caterina del Sasso, which took about 20 minutes.
Hiking and mountain biking are also popular activities in Arolo, with lots of interesting routes along the lake. And many visitor attractions are within walking/easy cycling distance.
We're more than happy to give further advice on activities in and around Arolo, so do not hesitate to reach out!
Remember to share your experience of the villa and Lake Maggiore, by tagging us on Instagram (@VillaLagoMaggiore) and using the hashtag #VillaLagoMaggiore
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