Explore even more! Book a second 2022 holiday and save 20% if your second holiday is a river, yacht or ocean cruise of 8 days or more.
Book either two new holidays or a second holiday between 1 April and 31 May 2022 and save 20% on your second holiday if it is a river, yacht or ocean cruise departing in 2022. Savings will be applied to your final balance post-booking. Find out more
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Change your holiday for free for any reason right up until your final balance payment is due.
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It’s difficult to describe the flawless beauty of the Italian lakes, yet viewing them you’ll immediately understand why so many artists, composers and writers have sought inspiration here. The heady mix of serene waters, forest-clad hillsides, medieval villages, orange-blossom-scented warm air and delicious food make them an irresistible destination.
It was the arrival of the British during the days of the ‘Grand Tour’ that first brought fame to the sublime Italian lakes and helped to create the sophisticated villages nestling like pearls on a string along the verbena-clad shores. This wonderful combination of magnificent Swiss mountain scenery and Italy’s tranquil, crystal-clear lakes creates a stunning visual montage that cries out to be explored.
Lake Maggiore straddles both Italy and Switzerland and we stay in Baveno, a typically Italian lakeside town that overlooks the stunning Borromean Islands. We explore not only Lake Maggiore but also the equally beautiful Lake Como and lesser-known Lake Orta, one of the most spellbinding places you’ll ever visit. With the arc of the imposing Alps stretching out along the horizon, you’ll enjoy arguably the finest mountain scenery on the planet during your visits to Switzerland – dramatic Zermatt, nestled at the base of the world’s most mesmerising peak, the mighty Matterhorn. Then there are the delightful lost valleys, tumbling glacier streams and classic chalet scenes that, when blended together, offer a truly inspirational tour.
The price of this holiday is per person based on two people sharing a room. Double sole occupancy rooms are available at the relevant supplement. The price includes:
Good quality walking shoes or boots are a must. We also recommend a waterproof jacket, comfortable rucksack, hat, sunglasses, sun cream, water bottle and clothes that can be layered easily. Hiking poles are not necessary, but you may wish to take them.
Most of our walks are guided by accredited local professionals, who have intimate knowledge of the routes and can offer meaningful information about the history and nature of the area.
Our Walk & Discover holidays are designed to appeal to anyone who would typically enjoy an escorted tour but would like to incorporate a little more activity. There is almost always a choice of an easy or moderate option. While a reasonable level of fitness is recommended, the easy walk should suit most travellers.
We've put together a few graphs to help show the elevation of each of the walks on this tour, so that you can gauge how comfortably you'll be able to manage them. Click on a walk below to view the elevation.
On each walk we prefer an intimate atmosphere, so you can expect around 12 to 18 people. Depending on the nature of the walk, the group may occasionally be slightly larger. The wider group size will be around 40 people, mainly during coach transfers.
While we will always try to adhere to the route as advertised, we may be required to modify the itinerary due to local conditions. Our guides may also make minor changes to tailor the walk to the group.
Fact File
Visa Information
UK Citizens do not require a visa to enter Italy however must have a valid passport. For the most up-to-date passport and visa information visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/italy/entry-requirements
We are unable to accept responsibility if you are unable to travel because you have not complied with any passport/entry/immigration requirements.
Mobility
We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the holiday due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to call us to discuss these concerns. General information on mobility in connection with our tours can be found here.
Hotel Information
All transfer times listed here are approximate, and dependent on traffic. If you have a question regarding transfer times please don't hesitate to contact us.
Arrival airport | First hotel location | Transfer time |
---|---|---|
Milan Malpensa Airport | Stresa | 1 hr 15 mins |
Milan Linate Airport | 1 hr 45 mins | |
Milan Bergamo Airport | 2 hrs |