ORTA SAN GIULIO: Italy’s Hidden Lakeside Sanctuary
ORTA SAN GIULIO (NO) Piedmont, 'Provincia di Novara', Italy
Distance from Zurich: 250 km | Approx. 3.5-hour drive
Best Driving Route: Via Gotthard Tunnel → A2 & A26 highways → Exit at Arona → Scenic drive along Lake Orta (Approx. 1 hour along the lake)
Map Reference: See Map
How to Reach Isola San Giulio: A short 5-minute boat ride from Orta San Giulio’s main piazza, with regular departures throughout the day
Best Time to Visit: Mid-March to late May - Ideal for spring blooms & mild temperatures - Easter holiday festivities & local events
Insider Tip: Plan your arrival early to enjoy the quiet charm of the town before midday crowds arrive
A Step into Tranquility
Arriving in Orta San Giulio, start your visit with a leisurely guided walking tour through the town’s cobblestone streets. As you explore, marvel at the beautifully preserved medieval architecture and vibrant piazzas while learning the town’s history. Make sure to pause at the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, a hidden gem that often goes unnoticed. Join a Walking Tour of Orta San Giulio
From the main piazza, take a short boat ride to Isola San Giulio, where you can join a guided visit to the Benedictine monastery. Stroll along the “Way of Silence,” a peaceful path circling the island, offering serene views of Lake Orta. Let the tranquility set the tone for your day.
Savor Local Delights
After a morning of exploration, indulge in a sumptuous lunch at Locanda di Orta, where you can savor specialties like Risotto al Pesce Persico and freshly caught lake fish, paired with a crisp glass of local white wine.
Among the region’s distinctive flavors, traditional dishes such as Paniscia Novarese and Agnolotti del Plin stand out. For a casual post-lunch stroll, visit a local market where vendors showcase artisanal cheeses like Toma and Gorgonzola, perfect for a picnic later in the day. Alternatively, just enjoy a wine-tasting experience in one of the enotecas around, highlighting Piedmont’s renowned vintages, including Gavi and Roero Arneis; the perfect moment to embrace the dolce far niente philosophy.
Where to Stay & Enjoy Dinner
In the afternoon, unwind with a leisurely passeggiata along the lakefront promenade, soaking in the stunning views and quiet charm of Orta San Giulio. This is the perfect prelude to your evening.
Stay: Villa Crespi - A luxurious Moorish-style boutique hotel offering not only Michelin-star dining but also exclusive wellness packages and elegant lakeside rooms. Book Your Stay at Villa Crespi
Hotel la Bussola - A more affordable option, this hotel offers a fair balance between service and price, making it a great choice for travelers seeking comfort without extravagance. Book Your Stay at Hotel la Bussola
Dinner Suggestions: Fine Dining: Return to Villa Crespi for an unforgettable dining experience led by Michelin star chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo. Relish refined Mediterranean cuisine in an intimate setting. Relaxed Option: Il Bocciolo: This family-friendly restaurant offers wood-fired pizzas, homemade pastas, and hearty local dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The Perfect Spring Conclusion
Cap off your visit with a sunset passeggiata through the main square, where the fading light bathes the town in golden hues. Stop for a final espresso or gelato at a lakeside café to savor the moment.
For those staying overnight, end your day with a visit to Sacro Monte di Orta under the evening sky; a serene and mystical experience with panoramic views of the lake.
Orta San Giulio is more than a destination; it’s an experience of timeless beauty, blending history, culture, and nature. Whether you’re wandering the tranquil streets, indulging in authentic cuisine, or gliding across the lake, this hidden gem promises memories that linger long after your journey ends.
Would you wander the tranquil streets of Orta or drift to the mystical island of San Giulio? Let us know your dream escape!