Lake Maggiore Discovery holidays

From the delightfully pretty scenery of Lake Orta, to the majesty of Milan’s impressive Duomo, this seven night trip introduces you to the wealth of culture and natural beauty to be found around Lake Maggiore. Admire some of the most famous landscapes in Europe such as picturesque Lake Como, cosmopolitan Lugano and the breathtaking Matterhorn.

You will be based at the Hotel Villa Paradiso in the small, tranquil resort of Meina, 12km south of bustling Stresa, on Maggiore's western shore. Stresa and other resorts around the lake are linked to Meina by regular public bus and by twice daily ferry connections from June onwards.

This package includes:

• Full day excursion to Lake Lugano, Lake Como & Lake Maggiore
• Full day's guided trip by coach and train to Zermatt and the Matterhorn
• Guided excursion to Lake Orta
• Full day's guided tour of Milan

Additional information:

This trip starts on a Saturday and can be taken on it's own or as a first or second part of a twin centre holiday, offering amazing value for money.

Trips are daily local coach excursions (guided in English) and it is likely that guests from other companies will be on the coach with you.

Excursion highlights:

Three lakes: A trip up the western shores of Lake Maggiore as far as Locarno and then on to Lugano in Switzerland. Visit the Santa Maria degli Angeli church, with free time to explore the narrow streets, arcades, cafes and galleries of Lugano. The trip continues onto Lake Como and Como city, with a trip to the cathedral and free time to explore.

Zermatt and the Matterhorn: Travel on coach to Switzerland via the Simplon Pass and on to Brig and Visp. At Taesch take the rack and pinion railway to Zermatt. Free time to explore one of the most impressive locations in the world, surrounded by three of Europe's highest mountains. Optional trip available on the Sunnegga Paradise funicular for better views of the Matterhorn.

Lake Orta: Coach trip to Omenga on Lake Orta, where there will be time to explore or alternatively take an optional boat cruise to St Giulio's Island. Lake Orta is one of the smallest and least known of the Northern Italian lakes, however it's beautiful landscape, fascinating history and wealth of artistic treasures, make it a must see.

Milan: A guided tour of this sophisticated city, with visits to Sforzesco castle, the cathedral and many more famous sights. Time to 'shop til you drop' or an optional trip to the San Siro soccer stadium.

Please note: Entrance fees and optional additional activities are payable locally.