Jewels of Lake Maggiore, Lake Orta & the Centovalli Railway
This 7-night Escorted Tour offers a wonderful balance of organised sightseeing and relaxing leisure time in Northern Italy. Based in the scenic town of Baveno or Stresa, you will stay on a half-board basis at either the Hotel Beau Rivage or Hotel Royal Stresa. This holiday is designed to showcase the natural beauty of the Italian Lake District, focusing on the crystal-clear waters of Lake Maggiore and the tranquil atmosphere of Lake Orta. You will travel with a dedicated tour leader and a local guide who will ensure every detail of your journey is handled professionally.
One of the most spectacular parts of the itinerary is the Lake Maggiore Centovalli Railway excursion. This full-day trip takes you on a scenic rail journey through the ‘Hundred Valleys’, traversing eighty-three bridges and thirty-one tunnels. You will travel from Domodossola across the border into the Swiss town of Locarno, providing a unique perspective of the alpine landscapes that define this region. It is a fantastic opportunity for photography and a highlight for those who appreciate the slower pace of rail travel.
The tour also includes a comprehensive boat excursion to the Borromean Islands. You will visit Isola Bella, famous for its grand 17th-century Baroque palace and Italian-style terraced gardens where white peacocks roam. You will also spend time on Fisherman’s Island, the only permanently inhabited island in the group, known for its narrow streets and traditional character, before visiting the exotic botanical gardens of Isola Madre.
Beyond the main attractions, you will visit Lake Orta, a destination often favoured by locals for its quiet charm. You will explore the medieval village of Orta San Giulio, often referred to as a ‘Venice without water’ due to its car-free cobbled lanes and historic architecture. With return flights from Dublin, checked luggage, and airport transfers included, this tour provides an excellent value-for-money way to experience the best of Northern Italy and the Lake Maggiore Centovalli Railway.
What is the accommodation like on this tour?
Is the Centovalli Railway journey included?
What luggage is included in the flight?
What's Included+
- Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
- Return direct scheduled flights from Dublin to Milan
- All airport taxes, charges, and fees
- 10kg checked bag per person
- Return airport coach transfers
- 7 nights accommodation at the 3* Hotel Beau Rivage or 3* Hotel Royal Stresa
- Half board basis
- Relax on a scenic boat tour of the Borromean Islands with a stop to explore Isola Bella.
- Explore Lake Orta by boat on a guided day trip.
- Take a scenic ride on the Centovalli Railway & visit the Swiss town of Locarno.
- The assistance of our local tour guide and dedicated tour leader throughout
Itinerary
1Arrival at Lake Maggiore+
Upon landing in Milan, you will be met by our local representative and transferred by coach to your hotel on the shores of Lake Maggiore to begin your holiday.
2Day at Leisure in Baveno+
Enjoy a full day to relax. Take a stroll along the lakeside promenade, enjoy a coffee at a local café, and take in the views of the Borromean Islands across the water.
3Exploring the Borromean Islands+
A full-day boat excursion visiting Isola Bella to see its Baroque Palace and gardens, followed by the charming Fisherman's Island and the botanical beauty of Isola Madre.
4Free Time for Exploration+
Another day to relax at your own pace. Your local guide can suggest the best spots for a quiet lunch or further sightseeing in the surrounding Piedmont region.
5Day Trip to Lake Orta+
Travel by coach to Omegna before boarding a boat to the medieval village of Orta San Giulio. Explore the narrow cobbled lanes and historic chapels of this serene location.
6Relaxation by the Lake+
Take this day to revisit your favourite spots or simply enjoy the hotel facilities. The local boat service is easily accessible for those wanting to explore further independently.
7The Lake Maggiore Centovalli Railway Journey+
Board the narrow-gauge railway for a scenic trip through the 'Hundred Valleys', crossing 83 bridges on your way to the Swiss town of Locarno for an afternoon of sightseeing.
8Departure from Italy+
Enjoy a final breakfast before your coach transfer to Milan airport for your return flight to Dublin, assisted by your tour guide.
| Date | Acc. | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27 Sep 2026 | Twin | €1,399 | Enquire Now |
| 11 Oct 2026 | Twin | €1,199 | Enquire Now |
| 02 May 2027 | Twin | €1,379 | Enquire Now |
| 20 Jun 2027 | Twin | €1,399 | Enquire Now |
| 11 Jul 2027 | Twin | €1,399 | Enquire Now |
| 12 Sep 2027 | Twin | €1,379 | Enquire Now |
| 10 Oct 2027 | Twin | €1,269 | Enquire Now |
- Booking deposit: enquire at time of booking
- Prices are per person based on two sharing.
- Single Supplement applies.
- A non-refundable / non-transferable deposit is required at the time of booking.
- Balance due 16 weeks before departure.
- Optional insurance available (terms & conditions apply).
- Taxes, prices & itinerary subject to change.
- Booking terms & conditions apply.
- Travel Insurance is not included.
Ref: TD
