Information on Italy's Lake Maggiore, as provided by Formafantasma
Discovering the Delights of Lake Maggiore
Nestled just an hour's train ride from Milan, Italy, Lake Maggiore offers a captivating blend of culinary delights, scenic beauty, and cultural experiences. Here's a taste of what you can expect.
In the lesser-known town of Besozzo, you'll find Osteria del Sass, a small restaurant renowned for its rabbit ragu with lasagnette. For those with a sweet tooth, Pasticceria Cardy in Gavirate is a must-visit, known for its Cannoncini alla Crema Pasticcera.
If you're staying at the Il Porticciolo Hotel in Varese, you're in luck. La Tavola at the hotel offers fresh dishes using lake fish, along with panoramic views of Lake Maggiore.
Design enthusiasts might be interested to know that the designers Andrea Trimarchi and Simone Farresin, of studio Formafantasma, call Milan home.
As for the restaurants around Lake Maggiore, Trattoria Imbarcadero on Isola Pescatori is a standout. Praised for its traditional Italian dishes with fresh lake fish and homemade pasta, the restaurant is also noted for its lake view and friendly family-run service. Another excellent option is Ristorante La Pescheria on Isola Pescatori, offering seafood with a beautiful lakeside terrace and reasonable prices. For a unique dining experience, Albergo Ristorante Verbano in Cannobio provides a picturesque setting on a small island, accessible by boat.
Besides dining, Lake Maggiore offers a variety of activities. Boat trips and island visits, particularly to the Borromean Islands like Isola Pescatori and Cannero Riviera, are highly recommended for their scenic beauty and charming villages. Wine tasting in Piedmont, such as at Marrone Winery and Borgogno Wine Tasting, offers a relaxing experience with scenic outdoor terraces and renowned Barolo wines.
Exploring lakeside towns like Stresa and Cannobio, with their picturesque promenades and historic sites, is also a must. For shopping, local artisan shops and markets around Lake Maggiore offer regional specialties such as wines, chocolates, and handcrafted goods. Small boutiques on islands like Isola Pescatori provide unique souvenirs and local products, while Stresa and Cannobio offer Italian fashion, crafts, and food products.
This combination of excellent lakeside restaurants, scenic and cultural activities, and local shopping makes Lake Maggiore a rich and enjoyable destination. Whether you're a food lover, a design aficionado, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, Lake Maggiore is sure to delight.
Embarking on a journey of culinary exploration, you'll find that Lake Maggiore's lifestyle integrates food-and-drink experiences into its travel itinerary. Notable restaurants like Trattoria Imbarcadero on Isola Pescatori and Ristorante La Pescheria offer traditional Italian dishes, complemented by breathtaking lake views and friendly service.