About Lake Orta
Lake Orta is a small picturesque lake west of Lake Maggiore. Thanks to the quiet beauty of the landscape, its fascinating history and its wealth of artistic treasures - principally Romanesque and Baroque architecture – Lake Orta and the surrounding area have long been a favourite tourist destination. The climate is pleasant and mild.
Lake Orta is situated in the foothills of the Alps: at the south end of the lake the hills are are low, whereas at the north end the mountains are much higher (the Mottarone for example is nearly 1,500 metres) and you can see the distant Alpine peaks. The general effect is of a much gentler and more inviting landscape than some of the larger alpine lakes. Lake Orta is not particularly well know and remains a bit of a hidden gem, despite being so close to the popular Lake Maggiore.
On the beautiful Island of San Giulio in the middle of the lake, facing the old village of Orta San Giulio, there is the ancient Basilica of San Giulio, with interesting 15th century frescoes.
In the pretty town of Orta San Giulio visitors will find nice restaurants, wine-tasting shops, delicatessen and romantic streets of cobbled stones. Classic music concerts are held almost year-round in the historical centre and on the island.
At around 1km there is the interesting Sacro Monte (Holy Hill), a wooded hill with a religious complex made up of around twenty chapels dedicated to Saint Francis, put up between the 16th and 18th centuries and decorated with frescoes and sculptures.
Other main towns on the lake are Pettenasco with a good delicatessen, a couple of grocery shops and restaurants, and Omegna with restaurants, bars, supermarkets, shops, accessories and interior designer outlets.
Accommodation options from Italian Breaks around Lake Orta include private villas with pool for a relaxing holiday in comfort. For small parties please have a look at Vista Lago, while Villa Orta is ideal for larger groups, with the added bonus of a heated private swimming pool.