Trip to the Angera Castle, the Dolls Museum, and Arona from Lake Maggiore and Orta: How to Plan Your Tour

If you are planning to visit the beautiful Lake Maggiore or Orta and want to explore some of its top attractions, don’t miss the opportunity to take a private day trip to the Angera Fortress (Rocca di Angera), the museum of antique dolls, and Arona town. This tour offers a comfortable and hassle-free experience, allowing you to travel in a private vehicle with your personal group and providing ample free time to discover the well-preserved fortress, the dolls’ museum, and the stunning surroundings of Arona. In this guide, we’ll give you all the information you need to plan your trip, including what’s included in the tour, how to book it, and what to expect from each attraction.

Overview of the Tour

The tour starts with a pickup from your hotel in Stresa, Baveno, Pettenasco or Orta San Giulio. You’ll be met by your private driver, who will take you in an air-conditioned minivan to the first stop of the tour: the Angera Fortress. During the journey, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of Lake Maggiore and Orta and have the chance to ask any questions you may have about the tour or the area. Once you arrive at the fortress, you’ll receive your entry tickets (€13 per person) and have ample free time to explore the castle and its museum of antique dolls. The fortress offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, and the museum boasts a unique collection of more than 1,000 dolls from different eras and countries. You can also visit the castle’s archaeological museum, which exhibits objects found during archaeological digs in and around the fortress. After visiting the fortress, your driver will take you to the charming town of Arona, located on the western shore of Lake Maggiore. Here, you’ll have free time to explore the town’s narrow streets, beautiful squares, and historical landmarks. One of the highlights of Arona is the towering Statue of St. Charles, which stands at more than 35 meters tall and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding Alps. Finally, your driver will take you back to your hotel, where the tour ends.

What’s Included in the Tour

The tour includes: – Transport by private vehicle: You’ll travel in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan with your personal group, and your driver will take care of all the driving and parking. – Round-trip private transfer: You’ll be picked up from and dropped off at your hotel in Stresa, Baveno, Pettenasco or Orta San Giulio. – Entrance fees: Entry tickets to the Angera Fortress and dolls’ museum are included in the tour price (€13 per person). – Gratutes (optional): Gratutes are not included in the tour price, but you are welcome to tip your driver if you are satisfied with the service. Note that food and drinks are not included in the tour price, but you can buy them at the different stops of the tour.

How to Book the Tour

You can book the tour online through Viator, a trusted platform for booking tours and activities around the world. The tour costs €335 for 1-3 people, €350 for 4-5 people, and €375 for 6-8 people. To book the tour, follow these steps: 1. Go to the tour page on Viator: https://www.viator.com/tours/Lake-Maggiore/Trip-to-the-Angera-castle-the-dolls-museum-and-Arona-from-lake-Maggiore-and-Orta/d26112-8251P9?pid=P00070472&mcid=42383 2. Choose your preferred date and number of participants. 3. Click on “Check Availability.” 4. Review the tour details and inclusions, then click on “Book Now.” 5. Follow the instructions to enter your personal and payment details, and complete your booking. Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details of the tour, including the meeting point, the pickup time, and your driver’s contact information.

Tips for the Tour

To make the most of your tour, here are some tips to keep in mind: – Wear comfortable shoes and clothes: You’ll be walking and climbing stairs at the fortress and museum, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothes that allow you to move freely. – Bring sunscreen and a hat: The tour takes place mostly outdoors, so protect yourself from the sun and heat by applying sunscreen and wearing a hat. – Bring cash: While entry tickets to the Angera Fortress and museum are included in the tour price, you may want to buy souvenirs or food and drinks at the different stops of the tour, so make sure to bring cash with you. – Respect the local culture: When visiting Arona and the other stops of the tour, be respectful of the local culture and customs, and avoid littering or causing damage to the environment.

Book Your Tour Now

Visiting the Angera Fortress, the museum of antique dolls, and Arona is a must-do experience for anyone who wants to discover the beauty and history of Lake Maggiore and Orta. This private day tour offers a comfortable and hassle-free way to explore these top attractions, allowing you to travel in your own vehicle with your personal group and providing ample free time to discover each place at your own pace. Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of Italy’s most beautiful regions! Book the tour here

FAQ about Lake Maggiore

1. What is Lake Maggiore?

Lake Maggiore is a large lake located on the border of Switzerland and Italy. It is the second-largest lake in Italy and the largest in southern Switzerland. The lake is a popular tourist destination and is known for its stunning scenery, picturesque towns and villages, and numerous activities for visitors.

2. What are some of the activities available at Lake Maggiore?

There are plenty of activities to enjoy at Lake Maggiore, including:

• Boat trips around the lake
• Swimming and sunbathing on the lake’s beaches
• Hiking in the surrounding hills and mountains
• Cycling along the lake’s many trails and paths
• Visiting the numerous gardens and parks around the lake, such as Villa Taranto and the Borromean Islands
• Exploring the charming towns and villages that surround the lake, such as Stresa, Verbania, and Locarno
• Participating in water sports such as canoeing, kayaking, and windsurfing

3. What is the weather like at Lake Maggiore?

The weather at Lake Maggiore is generally warm and sunny during the summer months, with temperatures averaging around 25-30°C (77-86°F). Spring and autumn are mild with occasional rainfall, while winter can be cool and rainy with occasional snowfall in the surrounding mountains.

4. How do I get to Lake Maggiore?

The easiest way to get to Lake Maggiore is by flying into one of the nearby airports. The closest airports are Milan Malpensa Airport in Italy and Lugano-Agno Airport in Switzerland. From there, you can take a train or hire a car to reach the lake.

5. What are the best towns and villages to visit at Lake Maggiore?

There are many charming towns and villages to explore around Lake Maggiore, but some of the most popular include:

• Stresa: a picturesque town on the western side of the lake with stunning views of the Borromean Islands
• Verbania: a bustling town on the northern tip of the lake with plenty of shopping, restaurants, and cafes
• Ascona: a Swiss town on the northern shore of the lake known for its picturesque streets and lively events
• Cannobio: a small town on the western shore of the lake with a charming old town and a weekly market
• Locarno: a Swiss town on the northern shore of the lake known for its beautiful Piazza Grande and the annual Locarno Film Festival

6. What are the best gardens and parks to visit around Lake Maggiore?

There are many beautiful gardens and parks around Lake Maggiore, but some of the most popular include:

• Villa Taranto: a stunning botanical garden with over 20,000 plant species
• Isola Bella: a beautiful island on the lake with a palace and stunning Italian-style gardens
• Isola Madre: a peaceful island with a beautiful palace and well-preserved gardens
• Botanical Gardens of Gambarogno: a large collection of alpine and subalpine plants located on the Swiss side of the lake

7. Are there any special events or festivals that take place at Lake Maggiore?

Yes, there are many special events and festivals that take place throughout the year at Lake Maggiore, including:

• Stresa Festival: an annual music festival that takes place in Stresa during the summer months
• Locarno Film Festival: an international film festival that takes place in Locarno every August
• Ascona Jazz Festival: a popular jazz festival that takes place in Ascona every summer
• Cannobio Flower Festival: a colorful festival that takes place in Cannobio every September

8. What are the best hiking routes around Lake Maggiore?

There are many excellent hiking routes around Lake Maggiore, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes in the surrounding hills and mountains. Some of the most popular routes include:

• Sentiero Azzurro: a stunning coastal walk along the western shore of the lake
• Mottarone: a scenic mountain hike with stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains
• Campo dei Fiori: a challenging hike through the hills to the north of Varese
• Sacro Monte di Ghiffa: a UNESCO World Heritage site with a series of 15 chapels and stunning views of the lake

9. What are the best restaurants and cafes to visit at Lake Maggiore?

There are plenty of excellent restaurants and cafes to choose from around Lake Maggiore, ranging from traditional Italian trattorias to international cuisine. Some of the most popular include:

• Ristorante Il Portale: a Michelin-starred restaurant in the town of Verbania
• Orta Ristorante: a trendy and innovative restaurant in the town of Orta San Giulio
• Ristorante Belvedere: a charming restaurant in the town of Stresa with stunning views of the lake
• Caffe Torino: a historic cafe in the town of Arona with delicious coffee and pastries

10. Can I go swimming in Lake Maggiore?

Yes, there are plenty of places to go swimming in Lake Maggiore, including public beaches, private lidos, and secluded coves. However, it’s important to be aware of the local rules and regulations regarding swimming, and to check the water quality before diving in.

Book Your Tour Now

Lake Maggiore is a beautiful and diverse destination with something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in hiking, swimming, exploring charming towns and villages, or simply relaxing in stunning natural surroundings, you’re sure to find plenty to love about this magical lake. With this comprehensive FAQ, you’ll have all the information you need to plan the perfect trip to Lake Maggiore.

How to spend your time in Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore is a beautiful lake located in Northern Italy, close to the Swiss border. The lake is surrounded by picturesque towns and villages, each with its own unique character and charm. If you’re planning a trip to the area, there’s plenty to see and do to keep you entertained. In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the activities you can enjoy during your stay.

1. Take a boat tour

One of the best ways to see Lake Maggiore is by taking a boat tour. There are plenty of companies that offer tours of the lake, ranging from short trips to longer, more comprehensive excursions. Some of the most popular boat tours include the Borromean Islands tour, which takes you to the three beautiful islands in the lake – Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola dei Pescatori. You can also take a cruise around the lake, which will give you stunning views of the mountains and shoreline.

2. Visit the Borromean Islands

The Borromean Islands are a must-see on any trip to Lake Maggiore. Each of the islands has its own unique character and attractions, and they’re all well worth a visit. Isola Bella is perhaps the most famous of the three islands, with its stunning palace and beautiful Italian-style gardens. Isola Madre is a more natural island, with stunning gardens and a 16th-century palace that’s now a museum. Isola dei Pescatori is a charming fishing village, with narrow streets and traditional houses.

3. Explore the town of Stresa

Stresa is a charming town located on the western shore of Lake Maggiore. It’s a popular destination for tourists, thanks to its beautiful architecture and stunning views of the lake. You can take a stroll along the lakefront promenade, explore the narrow streets of the historic town centre, and visit the many shops and cafes. There are also several impressive villas to see in the area, including Villa Pallavicino and Villa Taranto.

4. Visit the botanical gardens

Lake Maggiore is home to several beautiful botanical gardens, which are a must-see for nature lovers. The most famous of these is Villa Taranto, which has over 20,000 species of plants from around the world. The garden is particularly stunning in the spring, when the many tulips, daffodils, and other flowers are in full bloom. Other botanical gardens to visit include the Alpinia Garden and the Botanical Garden of the Isola Madre.

5. Go hiking in the mountains

If you’re looking for a more active holiday, Lake Maggiore is a great destination for hiking and mountain climbing. The mountains around the lake offer some stunning views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. One of the most popular hiking trails is the Sentiero Azzurro, which takes you through the hills and forests around the lake. There are also several climbing routes available for more experienced climbers.

6. Take a cable car ride

For panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, take a cable car to the top of Mount Mottarone. From here, you can enjoy stunning views of Lake Maggiore and the Alps. You can also go skiing or snowboarding in the winter, or take a paragliding or hang gliding flight in the summer.

7. Visit the Sacro Monte di Ghiffa

The Sacro Monte di Ghiffa is a religious complex located on a hill overlooking the lake. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to several beautiful chapels with impressive frescoes. The complex also offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Book Your Tour Now

Lake Maggiore is a beautiful destination with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone. From boat tours and island visits to hiking and cable car rides, you’re sure to find something to keep you entertained during your stay. So why not start planning your trip today?