Italy's Lakes Explored

Photo credit: fotopedia.com

James Bond villain chases, sexy cars, twisty roads and romantic countryside are all images that spring up when the Italian lakes come to mind, and thankfully you don’t even have to be a super-rich movie star to enjoy all the wonderful things the lakes have to offer. In order to truly enjoy the lakes, make sure you set yourself at an leisurely pace, and pack your car up with plenty of refreshments and food, because once you find your perfect spot, you’re not going to want to leave!

Even if you’re visiting the lakes around Italy on a weekend getaway, you’ll still be able to fit loads in. By getting up early and covering as much ground as soon as you can, minutes will slowly turn into hours at these stunning locations, while you sleep the day away at some of the most beautiful locations on the planet. Let’s explore Italy’s wonderful lakes.

Valle Maggia and Lago Maggiore

Locarno is located just over the boarder of Switzerland, on the northern tip of Lago Maggiore. Not only does it offer a wonderful mix of luxurious and rustic beauty, but there’s a natural pace about this spectacular area, and it’s far from hurried or rushed. In fact, you’ll find it hard to believe that you’re in Switzerland at all, with tanning sunbathers, amazing climate and palm trees surround the lake.

The Annual Locarno International Film Festival is probably the only time where the relaxed and peaceful atmosphere changes, but even then it’s hardly a rock concert. Hotel prices do jump skyward however, and people come from all over the world, filling up the town and inducing commotion everywhere you look. Make sure to rent a car to get down to the lake, as the pedestrian foot paths will be crowded.  But still, the lake remains tranquil and humble, and if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the main town, there’s nowhere better to turn to than the warm waters and glistening sunshine.

Santuario della Moadonna del Sasso

As this huge yellow church peers over the steep cliff upon which it is perched, watching over the sleep town of Lago Maggiore settled in the shadows of huge rock faces and forest, visiting Santuario della Moadonna del Sasso is a must experience adventure for any tourist. Not only are the views unmatched, but the picturesque setting of the church inspires the artist in every person who sets their eyes upon it.

If you want to visit the church, then it is easily accessible via the marked road from the train station, and there are even tour guides for hire that will give you give you the history of the great monument. Once you’re at the top, you’ll be able to see one of the most beautiful landscapes in all of Italy, including a magnificent view of the Ascona lake. Tucked away in a small bay towards the coastline, the promenade is can be reached by car or foot, and there are a number of café’s looking out onto the lake.