Lake Orta

The guided tour of Orta San Giulio starts from the Sacro Monte, which will be reached with a short ride on the train, a promontory on which in the 16th century a group of chapels and a convent were built to accommodate the Capuchin Franciscan friars, to protect from invasion of the Lutheran religion. The monumental complex, also called "Assisi of the North" has its vital center in the church of Saints Nicolao and Francesco and consists of 20 chapels in which scenes from the life and miracles of St. Francis of Assisi are depicted through frescoes and beautiful life-size terracotta statues. From the Sacro Monte, spectacular views of the lake alternate with its only island, the island of San Giulio. We continue the visit descending from the mountain through the suggestive alleys until we reach the church of Santa Maria Assunta from the 15th century; from here starts a wide downhill road entirely paved with stones called "Motta" framed by some of the most beautiful palaces in Orta, such as Palazzo Gemelli with splendid paintings on the facade and neoclassical style buildings. We then arrive in Piazza Motta, a real living room overlooking the lake, from which boats depart for the island of San Giulio and where you can admire the 16th century broletto or Palazzo della Comunità della Riviera di San Giulio with the bell tower. . You will discover the various streets of the village full of shops and gastronomic shops of handicraft products and typical local dishes until you conclude the visit to Villa Bossi, seat of the town hall of Orta, where you will be able to access a delightful garden overlooking the lake, a must for a magnificent panoramic view. The guided tour will be made even more characteristic by the tasting at the pastry shop of the famous Michelin star chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo

Start the walk at the Church of Saint Mary of the Angels. Despite the simplistic appearance, walking inside the church is a striking experience of marveling at the famous Renaissance frescoes of the Passion And Crucifixion of Chris and Last Supper, covering all over the dividing wall and the nave’s south wall respectively. The mesmerizing masterworks strongly influenced by Leonardo are the most important examples of the Lombard Renaissance in Switzerland. Upon leaving the faraway land, join the atmospheric Via Nassa, historically Lugano’s most important commercial street. The high-end labels and historic architectural elements add an elegant touch to this street, which elevates window shopping to an art form with an array of classy boutiques, exquisite antiques, lovely eateries, and elegant cafés nestling under the porticoes along the thoroughfare. At the end of the street is the Reformation Square, which hosts regular lively festivals and markets. The relaxing ambiance of elegant neoclassical buildings, quaint cafes, and flamboyant booths selling local produce make it the favorite meeting venue in the city today. But three centuries ago, the Town Hall dominating the cozy square was the quiet witness of a series of chaotic political events. Next, it’s time to pace yourself and walk up to the higher part of the city where the Cathedral of Saint Lawrence rests in the shadow of its looming Baroque-style bell. The climb rewards with pleasant vistas of the town below, the imposing mountains, and a splendid sight of the majestic white-stone temple hiding inside a glorious interior. Then, head to the riverfront to the stunning Mocetti Fountain, housing miniature mountains and a pond of crystal clear water, symbolizing the natural landscapes that Lugano is blessed with. The waterwork surrounded by nice buildings and facing out right to the picturesque Lugano Lake offers excellent backdrops for souvenir photos. In the following step, check out the elegant Church of S. Rocco, whose neo-baroque façade showing off intricate carvings and inscriptions is an outstanding example of its kind. Finally, explore all the wonders that Ciani Park has to offer within an area of 63,000 m², including a gigantic botanic collection of native and exotic vegetation, velvety lawns alternating with flower beds in bloom, winding paths lined by century-old trees and beautiful buildings far and few in between, and the list goes on. The secluded green oasis overlooking the vast lake is a veritable wonderland to get in touch with nature after the hustle and bustle in the vibrant city center.