Often when I think about a village or town I have visited in Italy, I think, that one is my favourite.  I have come realise that I have so many favourites. How does one really pick a favourite when Italy is full of the most amazing and beautiful places?

The last time I was in Italy I returned to a very beautiful town, Stresa.  I had visited Stresa several years earlier and promised myself then that one day I would return.

Stresa is situated on Italy’s second largest lake, Lago Maggiore, which has 11 islands, the most famous being the Borromean Islands which includes the very unique Isola Bella.

Stresa is an easy train trip from Milan. Its main train station is well positioned close to most hotels and not far from the lake. It is just a short taxi ride, however it is also an easy walk.  While we were there, we took the train into Milan just for the day starting off with a short walk from our hotel. When we left Stresa, we took the luxury comfortable shuttle coach directly to the international airport in Milan.

We had 8 magic days in Stresa, staying at La Fontana hotel which is right by the lake with stunning views towards the islands.

Each day, and often twice a day, we walked in to the township of Stresa. Walking along the lakefront promenade is a perfect way to start any day and a delightful way to end a day.

 

Come for a walk with me along the promenade. Here are some of the many sights you will see. Many of these stunningly grand hotels were built in the early 1900’s.

 

While staying in Stresa, we took the local public ferry boat to many of the other towns on the lake plus we visited 3 of the Borromean Islands . Such a pleasant way to travel. Each town we visited was only a short distance.

It is so very easy to get around in Stresa. The roads are wide making driving a breeze and there is plenty of parking which is also available in the hotels.

Of course if you are up to it, just put on those walking shoes and take in the exquisite beauty of Stresa on Lago Maggiore. You will not be disappointed.