Is one of the most popular resorts V Western Europe. The Italian part of the lake is located in the provinces of Piedmont and, and the Swiss part is in the canton of Ticino. total area The water surface is over 200 square kilometers. Lago Maggiore was formed as a result of the melting of glaciers over millions of years and is a tectonic basin filled with the purest water and surrounded by high banks, behind which the outlines of the Lombard Alps are visible.
From all sides the lake is blown by winds, and each direction has its own name. So "mergozzo" means "western", and "major" - "northern", which is reflected in the name of the lake. Its main features are a significant fluctuation of the water level throughout the year and tolerance to frost. Lago Maggiore does not freeze even in the coldest winters. Thanks to the mild climate and beautiful landscapes, these places attract thousands of people who want to relax on the picturesque shores of this Italian-Swiss resort all year round. In addition to tourism, the region has well-developed areas of activity such as fishing, shipping and water sports sports, and the cities of Cannobio and Stresa are especially popular among tourists, since they are located directly along the coast of Lago Maggiore.
Village Cannobio, located on the Italian territory of the lake, is a tiny settlement with about five thousand local residents who live in small one-story houses with tiled roofs. Among the attractions here are the Palazzo Mandamental Palace, in the picturesque mountain gorge of Van Cannobio and the church of Santupario della Pieta. There are several 3 and 4 star hotels in the settlement. Pure mountain air and a convenient location relative to Lago Maggiore make Cannobio great place for a quiet family holiday.
On the very shore of the lake, at the foot of the mountains Mottarone, stretched Italian commune called Stresa. After the railway was built here, this resort became the most visited in the region. For a long time, famous painters and artists of Europe rested here. At one time, Stresa was preferred to other resorts even by members of the British royal family. Picturesque parks and gardens, closed on all sides majestic mountains Mottarone make a huge impression, and the architecture of the city is reminiscent of the traditional Italian culture of the Middle Ages. In turn, along the coast of Lago Maggiore, there are luxurious villas and five-star hotels, which, despite high prices, are almost always filled to capacity.
- a small Swiss town in the south of the country, in the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino. In Europe, he became famous thanks to the annual international film festival, held in the month of August on the main city square, Piazza Grande. Being on the shores north coast Lago Maggiore, Locarno is considered a favorite resort area among the inhabitants of this region and the cities adjacent to it. The picturesque gorges of Vallemaggia and Centovalli are considered great place for hiking, and the coast itself has excellent conditions for active pastime, including diving, water skiing and many others active entertainment. And those who are tired of contemplating the narrow streets of a provincial town can take an electric train at the nearest railway station, and after only half an hour to be in one of the most sophisticated Italian cities - Milan. A short distance from the major cities of the Italo-Swiss region is also considered a hallmark of Locarno.
Another cozy tourist place in the Swiss part of Lago Maggiore is considered. This is also a small town with a population of just over 5,000 people. It is located at an altitude of 196 meters above sea level, on the picturesque hill of Monte Verita. At one time such people were born here famous people like the English writer James Hadley Chase, the Russian sailor Ferdinand Wrangel, the Italian architect Gaetano Matteo and the Catholic martyr Peter Berno. Every summer, Ascona hosts a jazz music festival, which attracts many fans of this musical trend. The old district of the city is a storehouse of historical sights, including the ruins of the once majestic castle of San Materno, which have survived to this day, Cathedral San Pietro and the Church of Santa Maria dela Misericordia. Ascona, as well as other resort towns of Lago Maggiore, enjoys special attention from tourists, but mainly in winter time year, taking into account the gentleness of the mountains and the thickness of the snow cover.
The climate in the region is subtropical, despite the significant height above sea level and remoteness from the equator. These places are rich in fruits and green vegetation. At the same time, there are areas where the snow does not melt for years. By the end of April, a hot summer reigns on Lago Magjorne. The air temperature from May to October does not fall below +22 degrees, and in June, July, it can reach +30. Winter is never cold, so you can practically relax here. all year round regardless of preference. Here, both skiing with sticks and a mask and snorkel are equally in demand. The infrastructure of the resorts is debugged at the traditional European level, and the hospitality of the locals only complements the positive impressions of staying on the shores of Lago Maggiorne.
Panorama del Lago Maggiore da Poggio Sant "Elsa sopra Laveno-Mombello (VA)
One of the most beautiful lakes in the Alps on the border of Italy and Switzerland attracts with original villages and picturesque islands.
Lago Maggiore(ital. big lake) - a lake on the border of Switzerland and Italy. The Swiss part of the lake is located in the canton of Ticino, the Italian part is in Piedmont and Lombardy. The water's edge of Lago Maggiore is the lowest point in Switzerland.
Lake Maggiore- the second largest in Italy after Lake Garda - is a huge body of water at the foot of mountain ranges, extending up to Swiss Alps. The length of the lake is 65 km, the maximum width is 4.5 km. On its banks grow camellias, azaleas and verbena, from which ancient lake and got its Roman name -
Verbanus. The main attractions of Lake Maggiore are the four Borromeo Islands - Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori, Isola Madre and Isola San Giovanni. The patron saint of the area is Cardinal Carlo Borromeo. The Borromean Islands of Lake Maggiore are pearls of natural beauty enriched by the creations of architects and gardeners. Isola Bella is home to the 17th century Palazzo Borromeo with a delightful park, decorative terraces, fountains, peacocks, statues and grottoes.
“If you have a heart and a shirt, sell the shirt and visit the surroundings of Lago Maggiore,” the great classic Stendhal advised to do so.
Isola Bella is especially popular. Almost all of its territory is occupied by a baroque palace and a garden with exotic plants adjacent to it.
Locarno is located on the northern shore of Lake Maggiore.
The city is known for hosting an annual film festival.
The main attraction of the Swiss city is the monastery of Madonna del Sasso, located in an incredibly picturesque place!
How to get there: from Moscow to Milan, direct flights are operated by Alitalia. The cost is 460 euros (round trip). Then by train to Stresa - from 6 euros. Well, or you can get a savage :)
Switzerland is a country of numerous mountains and lakes. Surprisingly clean, unrealistically azure, the lakes in Switzerland are one of the best options easy rest with the opportunity to enjoy the most beautiful landscapes. And the most beautiful lakes it is best to look in the mountains, during: it is there that you will find those postcard views, as if painted, they are so beautiful and unreal. In clear, calm weather, the surface of the lake turns into a mirror, in which mountain peaks and clouds are reflected, creating the illusion of a world floating in the air.
There are several large lakes in Switzerland, which you can take a cruise on. Cruises on lakes in Switzerland are held all year round, but not everywhere. For example, on Lake Firwaldstätt, you can even New Year meet, but there are no cruises on the lake in winter, only summer.
The two largest lakes in Switzerland - and Lake Constance - are located on the borders and are shared with neighboring countries(France and Germany with Austria, respectively). Lake Neuchâtel with an area of 218 sq. km is the largest located entirely in Switzerland. Lago Maggiore, only slightly smaller, is mostly located in Italy.
Lake Geneva
One of the most beautiful and beloved by tourists lakes in Switzerland is this. Named after the city near which it is located, the lake is popular place for summer holidays and for the construction of luxury villas. The lake is located on the territory of two countries - its southern part is located in the province of Como, Italy. On the banks is an Italian exclave on Swiss territory - the commune of Campione d'Italia.
With picturesque villages along the banks and surrounded by green mountains, Lake Lugano is perfect place for recreation and active tourism. Quite elongated, 36 km long and no more than 2 km wide, it is the only one in Switzerland that is spanned by a bridge.
Periodically, strong winds can blow on the lake - tivano (northern) and breva (southern). Porlezzina (east) sometimes brings strong storms. Thanks to clean air, practically free of dust and fog, Lake Lugano is considered the best place for rest and treatment after lesions of the respiratory tract and for rheumatic patients. The holiday season lasts from May to October.
Lake Vierwaldstet (Lake Lucerne)
About 40 km long, it stretched out in an arc along three cantons:, and. The lake is flowing: in the east, the Lint River flows into it, and in the west, in the center of Zurich, the Limmat River flows out of it. At the cape, the lake is divided into two parts by a dam: on the side of Zurich, the Lower Lake is located, and in the east, the Upper Lake (Obersee), between and.
On Lake Zurich there are regular and ferry connections between the shores, including automobile (between Horgen and Meilen). Among the ships, two old paddle steamers ply: Stadt Zurich(built in 1909) and Stadt Rapperswil(built in 1914).
The cruise along the entire Lake Zurich takes 1:50 from Zurich to Rapperswil. Along the shore of the lake by train, the same distance can be traveled in just 36 minutes. Departure from the Zürich Bürkliplatz pier. From December 11, 2016, an additional charge for travel on Lake Zurich is introduced - 5 francs in addition to the valid ticket for certain fare zones.
lake constance on German Lake Konstanz is usually called - in honor of the German town of the same name on the border with Switzerland. The lake washes the shores of three countries at once: in the north it borders on Germany, in the south - on Switzerland, and on the east side Austria stumbled. Lake Constance, 536 sq. km, is the second largest in Switzerland, second in size only. The river Rhine flows through it.
Lake Constance is navigable: there is ferry crossing(for example, from Konstanz to the beautiful Meersburg), also for cars. On the shores of the lake are German cities Konstanz(a very beautiful city, tickets of the Swiss Pass series are still valid before it), Meersburg(a wonderful castle, and a beautiful town), Friedrichshafen(and this is the birthplace of airships. Just think, there were flights of airships from Friebrichshafen to Moscow and Tokyo !!!), Lindau and Austrian city Bregenz. Located in the middle of Lake Constance monastery island of Reichenau declared .
Lake Brienz
In the summer on Lake Brienz (in German - Brienz See - Brienzsee) there are many regular flights to the side. Cruises on Lake Brienz are made from April to October, and in spring and autumn the number of cruises is noticeably less than in summer, during the high season.
Cruises on Lake Brienz cost from 30 francs and include breakfast / lunch or traditional Swiss.
Lake Zug
Lake Zug, named after the city, is located in two cantons - and, at the foothills. This is a navigable lake, around the city in cruise mode and regular transportation the boats of the Zugersee Schifffahrt company run. The maximum ticket price for a cruise on Lake Zug (between Zug and Arth) is 36 francs. A full-day ticket for the entire Zug region, including cruises on the Zugersee and Ägerisee lakes (Zuger Tagespass +) costs 39 francs per person (you can ride there and back unlimited). For children or owners - CHF 19.50.
The name Lago Maggiore literally means "Big Lake". It is located in the south of Switzerland, on the border with Italy, in. Most of the lake is located in Italy, in Piedmont and Lombardy.
The climate in the vicinity of Lago Maggiore is quite mild, due to which there are many resorts on the shores: Tenero in Switzerland and Canobio, Stresa, etc. Among the attractions of the lake are the Borromean Islands: Isola Bella, Isola Madre, Isola Superiore, and Isola di San Giovanni, located near the island of Brissago, as well as the Monastery of Santa Caterina del Sasso, located on a mountainside in.
On Lago Maggiore there are cruises on the Locarno-Magadino route and to the islands. A ticket from Ascona and Locarno to the island of Brissago costs 20.20 and 33.60 francs respectively (+8 francs for entry). A ticket for 1 day on Lake Maggiore costs 38.00 CHF, for 2 days - 50.00 CHF. The Holiday Card Lago Maggiore (CH + I) travel ticket is valid for the whole lake in Switzerland and Italy and costs 93 CHF for 3 days and 140 CHF for 1 week. An all-day ticket on the Swiss side of the lake costs 20.70 CHF for 1 day for 1 zone or 36.60 CHF for 2 zones. With general abonnement (GA), half-fare card SBB or SwissPass tickets, a ticket for 2 zones will cost 29.30 CHF.
Lake St. Moritz or St. Moritzsee (St-Moritzsee) is located right at the foot of the town of the same name. This is the most northeastern and the smallest in area in the chain of three large lakes of the Upper Engadine in.
Lake St. Moritz is very popular among yachtsmen. In winter, when the surface of the lake is frozen, it is used for sporting events: since 1906 - horse races "White Turf", in 1928 - part of the competitions of the Winter Olympic Games, and since 1988 - cricket tournaments. At present time, every January or early February, polo competitions are held here.
Lake Sils
Lake Sils or Sils See ( Silsersee) is named after a nearby village. Due to the constant and rather strong winds blowing from the Maloja Pass, it is popular among windsurfers, yachtsmen and kiters. Lake Sils is the highest lake in Europe with commercial navigation. During the summer, there are regular boat trips bringing tourists and hikers from Sils Maria to Maloja via Chastè, Plaun da Lej and Isola. Cruises operate from late June to September/October.
The famous German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche visited Lake Sils for the first time in July 1881 and spent seven years there until 1888 in the village of Sils Maria (German: Sils Maria), where he rented a room on the second floor in the house of the Durisch family (German: Durisch) . There he wrote a number of his works, including part of the book Thus Spoke Zarathustra.
This lake is most beautiful in early October, when the air is especially transparent, and the local hills are painted with gold of yellowed larches. It is his photographs that adorn numerous postcards with views of autumn Switzerland.
Lake Silvaplana
Lake Silvaplana ( Silvaplanersee) is named after the village of the same name, located on the coast. This is one of the three large lakes of the Upper Engadine, located at the beginning of the ascent to the southern slope of the Julian Pass. To the south of the lake, higher in the mountains is the popular ski resort Korvatsch.
External deposits of the Ova dal Vallun stream flowing into the lake (romsh. Ova dal Vallun) led to the division of the lake into two parts, the lower (north-eastern) part is a separate lake called Lej da Champfer (romsh. Lej da Champfèr).
Thanks to the steady winds blowing from the Maloja Pass, Lake Silvaplana is popular with windsurfers, yachtsmen and kiters.
Lake Murten
Murten Lake (in German - Murtensee-Murten See) is named after the town of the same name, located on its southern coast, in, and borders on. Lake Murten is located at the foot of the Jura Mountains and, along with Neuchâtel and Biel, forms the hydrosystem of the Zeeland region (Lakeland). There are regular cruises on these three lakes, including themed fondue cruises in winter (departure at 11:30 and 19:30, duration 3 hours, 55 CHF per person), but not every day. There is a New Year's Eve cruise (19:30 - 1:30, cost 140 CHF per person, including gala dinner).
Murten Licht-Festival 01/11/2017 - 01/22/2017 - Murten Licht-Festival, cruises 18:00 - 22:00.
Lake Neuchâtel
Lake Neuchâtel is located near the city of the same name in western Switzerland, mainly in, but also partially in, and. Together with the Murtensky and Bielsky lakes, it forms the hydrosystem of the Zeeland region (Lakeland).
Area 218 sq. km, Lake Neuchâtel is the largest in Switzerland, located entirely inland. The lake is located at an altitude of 429 above sea level, and the maximum depth reaches 152 m.
Lake Biel
This large lake, named after the city, stretches over the territory and. Together with the Murten and Neuchâtel lakes, it forms the hydrosystem of the Zeeland region (Lakeland). In the south, lakes jut out of the water islet of St. Peter at 473 m, which attracts many tourists (Jean-Jacques Rousseau once spent several months on it), and the small Rabbit Island at 448 m - the highest points of the underwater ridge known as the “Ways of the Pagans”, which completely dries up at low water and stretches to Erlach.
Klönthaler See
Lake Klöntaler See (Klöntalersee) or Klöntal Lake is a small picturesque lake in the center of Switzerland, at an altitude of 848 m above sea level. Since 1908, the lake has been used for electrification purposes.
Klöntaler See is a popular route for.
Lake Walensee
Lake Walenseeor Walenstadt Lake - one of the largest in the country. It is located in the east of Switzerland, 2/3 of it is located in and 1/3 in. The Linth River flows through the lake, flowing into. The lake is quite picturesque - from the north, straight to the water's edge, the steep slopes of the Churfirsten mountain range, reaching a height of 2306 m. south coast the Mürtschenstock mountains rise.
Due to the fact that the lake is located deep in the valley, without excess sunlight, even in summer the water temperature in the lake usually does not exceed 20 ° C).
Davos Lake
Lake Davos is a small natural water reservoir with a maximum depth of 54 m, used for the production of hydroelectric power. The lake is filled with the waters of the Rhine, Fluelebach and Totalpbach springs. The lake is not navigable, it is used for fishing (you need a special permit).
Mountain lakes in Switzerland
In addition to the large lakes in Switzerland, it is worth climbing the mountains at least once to see the real alpine beauties and fabulous mountain lakes. Below you will find a selection of the most beautiful mountain lakes in Switzerland.
It is located one and a half hours walk from the village of Kandersteg. An easy uphill hike with breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountain peaks of the Jungfrau Aletsch region, a listed canton of Nidwalden
Fuorcla Surlej (2760 meters above sea level), Mond, Val Roseg. Web site
Mountain hotel-restaurant Fuorcla Surlej, located in the vicinity of Silvaplana and ski resort Corvatsch, in one of the most beautiful places in the Engadine region, in the canton of Graubünden. From here you have a breathtaking view of the mountain peaks Piz Bernina (4.049 m) and Piz Roseg (3.937 m).
The hotel is closed from 10 October 2016 until 31 January 2017.
Open: from February 1, 2017 to April 22, 2017, subject to snow conditions. Daily from 8:30.
The number of seats inside is 40, the number of seats outside is 80.
Riffelsee
Riffelsee, Gornergrat, Zermatt
The small Riffelsee lake is located just below the mountain station. railway(not reaching 1 station to the top). On a calm day, the surface of the lake reflects the snow-capped pyramidal peak of the Matterhorn like a mirror.
From the lake there are numerous routes for, including.
Wildsee
The absolutely incredible Lake Wildsee is located a half hour walk from the top station cable car Pizol. It's a completely cosmic landscape, with black teeth mountain peaks, surrounding a milky blue lake ... A fabulous place is part of the popular 5 Lakes hiking route, where you can go for a walk with a guide, booked or on your own if you are not the first time. The route is available for walks from June to October.
Today we need to cross the border between Italy and Switzerland and get as close as possible to the start of the ascent to the San Gotthard pass. Our minimum plan is to get to Bellinzona. There is a campsite there and there I looked for a place for wild camping. I explained to Peter that the most difficult day would be on Wednesday, tomorrow. But in order to save energy for the pass, we need to get to it today. We packed our things, put the wheels on the bikes, packed up and started looking for the way to the border. There is a road, but a little lower down the slope there is a local path where you can climb on a bike. At first we pedaled on the ascent, and when we went to Bellinzona Street, the descent began here. Along the edges of the street are all sorts of shops, cafes and pizzerias. But many places are still closed. We found an open fruit shop and decided to stock up on groceries, because we are entering the expensive country of Switzerland. And it was close open cafe where we decided to have hot coffee. I asked for cocoa, but it was not available and I was offered hot chocolate. A small and cozy cafe, a respectable Italian bartender made us thick, hot and sweet chocolate. Gave 2 euros. Asked for a glass of water to drink. Grazia, Italy, we'll come sometime.
The border was passed unnoticed. Not in the sense that we disguised ourselves and quietly slipped through all the cardons. At the border, which looks like two arches on the same street, two police officers stand and randomly check the vans. Passenger cars simply slow down at the STOP sign. And bicycles pass through the green. We smiled at the police, they smiled at us. We didn’t even understand if they were Italian lawmen or already Swiss ones. Here we are in Switzerland. You need to check the map and find the correct exit from the city of Chiasso. The correct exit is again an ascent, where, however, there was an excellent view from above of the city and the railway tracks.
Last night, one problem with electronic devices was discovered. I tried to charge my Garmin tracker, which I count the kilometers traveled, but it refused to charge. Most likely, when I was going, I took the first usb-cable that came across. It was from an external hard drive and is only suitable for data transfer, not for charging. The problem is that Garmin is charging from a mini-usb connector, when most devices around the world are charging from micro-usb. We asked about the wire or charger in a couple of shops cellular communication but they did not have such a product. We were advised in Lugano to stop by a large MediaMarkt. Apparently we will.
At the entrance to Lake Lugano, the road runs along the shore. Other cyclists are coming towards us and there are a lot of them. Most on highways. When we drove up to the bridge on the opposite side of the road, two guys in the form of "Astana" passed. Seeing the expressive schnobel, I was stunned. Fabio Aru himself rode towards us. You can't confuse this face with any other. Cool, I don't want to wash my eyes.
According to the route legend on the veloland.ch website, our path was supposed to go straight, but I determined on the map that we could noticeably cut off and immediately enter Lugano. Therefore, after the bridge, we turned right and drove uphill, along the road along railway tracks. It was another rise, but we were preparing for it. Peter goes uphill hard, but does not lag far behind.
We are entering Lugano. We collect drinking water in the fountain, swept along the embankment and went to look for the Shopping Center in order to buy postings. I had to spend money in the store - I bought a Hama wire (gold-plated). Damn, now I have a real Hama USB cable for 17 CHF. What is so unique about it? Bytes are transmitted in a quality tube way? On weekdays at mall few people. I notice a man sitting in a chair who looks like Eric Clapton. Also a guitar on a T-shirt. Either I'm very lucky to meet celebrities, or this is his very good double.
It's one o'clock in the afternoon, the most inferno begins. We bought cold cola and had a small lunch. They ate fruit and ate nuts. At the same time, they lowered their wi-fi. Then we left Lugano and now our path leads to Belinzona.
After driving ten kilometers through open countryside, the bike path turned into a forest. I took advantage of the moment and decided to take a nap in the shade for 20 minutes. In this heat, even water does not save. The body is heated to the maximum and any infused liquid simply instantly evaporates through the skin. I try to sleep 20-30 minutes in the heat. We spread the cellophane from the bike and cut it down for half an hour. Cyclists on mountain bikes sometimes pass by.
Here I must explain that there are differences between bicycle signs. We haven't figured it out yet, but it seems we've never lost our way. The whole of Switzerland is criss-crossed by bike paths, mountain bike trails, roller skating trails or hiking. So the roads for mountain bikes and road bikes sometimes diverge. And if you were driving along an ordinary road, and then you saw a sign with a jumping bike, then do not rush to turn where it will show. Perhaps this will be a separate detour for owners of piston forks and wide tires.
Having left the forest, we drove through a gas station, where it was even possible to charge Tesla electric cars. And then the descent began. Yes, so steep and with turns that my hands hurt from convulsive holding of the steering wheel. The descent was along an ordinary road, where cars and large trucks drive. It was tough to leave. While we were rushing down the mountain, a couple of cyclists drove to meet us. One was kind of not heavily loaded, and the second was slowly rolling uphill with front and rear bike bags. What do people take with them?
We drove into the valley between the mountains. So we completed the program at least reached Bellinzona. And the time is about 4 days. We did not drive into the city itself, since the path leads separately through the fields. Sometimes the smells of greenery mixed with fried food from the surrounding houses evoke associations with Asia. The rich colors of the fields here are exactly the same.
We roll through small towns. We already see snow-capped peaks ahead, but they are far away. A betrayal is born inside - what if we have to climb these mountains tomorrow. Sometimes, in order to grab a good shot, you have to choose a position so that the wires of power lines do not get into the lens.
Many waterfalls and streams flow from the slopes of the mountains. And often a small hydroelectric power station is installed nearby.
In Byasco we stopped at a supermarket and stocked up on soda, buns and apples. Through the fields and without any climbs, we reached the town of Giornico. On the way we met a couple of them from Germany - my uncle and aunt were driving from St. Gotthard. They are wearing jackets, so I asked them how cold it is at the pass. They replied, "It's very cold, especially when you go down." And then my aunt finished me off with the phrase that from our side the climb to the pass is much more difficult. Great! Now I will be even more worried about getting up tomorrow and will not sleep at night.
Later we met another cyclist. A young guy from Vancouver, Canada. Stunned, a dude from another continent flew to ride around Europe. He also confirmed to us that there was a dubak on the pass. We wished each other good luck, although I forgot to talk about hockey with him.
It's already half past seven. The nearest campsite is 15 kilometers away. We cross the river, take pictures, and a new ascent begins. There are already few cars on the road, the sun does not hit here and the sky is getting darker. At the beginning of the ninth, I decide to look for a place for a wild camp. We find the exit from the road, which leads up the hill. We climb through the barrier, then through very thorny bushes and along the path we get to a clean plateau. We are surrounded by bushes and no one will disturb us. We put up a tent and have supper with everything that is left. The place looks like it was planned for the construction of a house. Even a few concrete slabs stand above the foundation pit. But the owner changed his mind about living here and the site was useful for tourists like us.
Those bushes through which we made our way were Zapodlyansky with long thorns. I had to check both great for punctures. I carried a bike on my shoulder, so my tires were clean. And Petka found one spike in the wheel. I had to fish it out with my nails. The wheel does not deflate, but if you continue to drive with such a spike, then it will slowly sink deep into the rubber until it does its vile deed. Took ten minutes to get it out. Peter writes a text message home with the text that we are going to bed in an illegal place. Immediately grabbed his hand. “Please think about what you write. Do you want your mother to stay up all night wondering what this illegal place is? Write to her that you have set up a tent in the bushes by the road.” I also found an illegal immigrant. Sent a message and went to bed.
Two tracks came out in one day. Before I bought a charging cable in Lugano. And the way from Lugano. In total, we drove 116 km.
Italy is a popular tourist destination. Holidays on Garda, Como and Lago Maggiore are considered even more prestigious than on the sea coast. In this article we will talk about the last lake of the whole trinity. Few excursion tours to Italy from Russia provide their customers with the opportunity to see this blue pearl of the Alps with their own eyes. But in vain. After all, it is said: "If you have a heart and a shirt, sell your shirt and satisfy your soul - visit Lago Maggiore." This is the second largest lake in Italy. Only Garda is larger than it in area. This lake is located on the border of Switzerland and Italy. Actually, the state cordon runs exactly along the water surface. On the Swiss side there are such resorts as Locarno, where the country's best balneological clinics are located, and ancient Ascona. Not far from the shores of Lake Maggiore is Lugano, nicknamed the European Rio de Janeiro for its vibrant social life. But in this article we will not describe the resorts of Switzerland. Let's talk about the Italian part of Lake Maggiore. How to get there, where to stay and what to see - read below.
Geography
The name Lago Maggiore is translated from Italian as " Big Lake". The name of the reservoir speaks for itself: it stretches from north to south for as much as sixty-six kilometers. The lake was formed thanks to an ancient glacier, which descended from the Alps and plowed the basin, damming the reservoir with its moraine. This explains the narrowness of Maggiore, with its steep and steep banks. At its widest point, the lake spreads for ten kilometers. At the same time, the reservoir is very deep (the maximum figure is 375 meters) - after all, the glacial tongue was sliding along a tectonic fault. In Lake Maggiore, the water is very clean due to the constant circulation. This reservoir is located at an altitude of almost two hundred meters above sea level. The area of the lake is 212.5 square kilometers, which puts Maggiore in second place after Garda. The navigable river Ticino (a tributary of the Po) flows into and out of the reservoir. Lake Maggiore on the world map is divided by two European states. Switzerland, more precisely, the canton of Ticino owns only about twenty percent of the reservoir (in the north). But even in the Italian part, the border runs along the lake - between the provinces. The eastern coast of Maggiore belongs to Lombardy, and the western coast belongs to Piedmont. Traditionally, the reservoir is usually divided into two parts - upper and lower. The first begins near the borders of Switzerland, near the town of Cannobio and extends to Verbania. Lower Maggiore is an area south of the notional line Belgirate - Castelletto sopra Ticino in Piedmont.
The climate of the region
From the north, Lake Maggiore (Italy) is closed by the high Lombard Alps. They form the climate of the reservoir. It is soft, warm, but unpredictable. Of course, the alpine peaks serve as a reliable barrier to the cold northern winds. But sometimes the icy air accumulated in high gorges breaks into the heated lake basin, causing storms. Then the locals say that the major (north wind) or mergozzo (western) blew. But these are emergencies. And usually the lake is famous for its wonderful mild and warm climate. does not freeze in winter. The water level in the lake depends on the season and fluctuates within four meters. Maggiore reaches its maximum filling in June - at the time of feeding the Ticino and other, smaller rivers. The tourist season lasts from May to October. Although during this period vacationers are not immune from unexpected storms. The prevailing winds are the tramontana. It blows in the first half of daylight hours from the lake to the shores. After lunch, the tramontana is replaced by the inverna, which rears light ripples on the water surface until sunset.
How to get to the lake
Excursion tours to Italy provide vacationers from Russia with vouchers to the capital of Lombardy, Milan or main city Piedmont Turin. Getting to Lake Maggiore from these two points is not difficult. Solo travelers Can you recommend this route. Regular flights of Alitalia and Aeroflot depart to Milan. From the capital of Lombardy, buses go to the resorts of Lake Maggiore. There is also a railway line ending in the coastal town of Verbanya. The path from the north will be more intricate. First you will need to get by plane to Lucerne, Basel or Zurich. Lugano also has an airport, but flights from Russia do not depart there. But from various Swiss cities you can get by train to Locarno or Bellinzona, lying on the shores of Lake Maggiore, in just three hours. And from there you can cross the border with Italy by bus (quickly and cheaply) or by comfortable cruise ship(glamourous and chic). The main port in the southern part of the lake is Verbanya. All resorts along the banks are connected by a network of beautiful highways. The steep shores of the lake have long been drilled by man with tunnels. So a trip on an ordinary regular bus from one point to another can already be considered an exciting excursion.
The Amazing History of Lake Maggiore
The mild climate and the richness of the waters with fish led to the fact that these places were inhabited a very long time ago. It is not known what these Celtic tribes called the lake. But when the legionnaires came here ancient rome, they were impressed by the size of the reservoir. Therefore, they called him Lacus Maximus. Translated from Latin, this means the Greatest Lake. The Romans surrounded the pond with a beautiful road, which has survived to this day in fragments. In the Middle Ages, the name of the lake changed. Since the shores of the reservoir were densely overgrown with fragrant verbena, they began to call it Verbano. At the beginning of the nineteenth century, Napoleon's troops made a brilliant crossing of the Alps. The French fortified and equipped old road, making it comfortable for carriages. The mild climate of the lake began to attract the Italian aristocracy to its shores. The rich built luxurious villas and palaces. The modest name of Lake Verbano did not reflect the grandeur of their dwelling. Therefore, the old Roman name of the reservoir was remembered. It was changed into modern Italian and began to sound like Lago Maggiore. Now resorts have grown on the shores of the lake, the beginning of which was given by local aristocrats. But much more ancient feudal castles rise on rocky ledges. In impregnable places, monasteries clung to steep banks. And on the islands there are chic palaces of nobles and representatives of the papal curia.
What are the hotels in the resorts of Lago Maggiore
Where to stop on this, giving unforgettable vacation, lake? Maggiore is dotted with resorts, each one unique. Whether you come to the Lombard side or the Piedmontese coast, everything will be fine. The hotel base on the lake is well developed. But there is one but. Hotels in Italy cannot be called budget. And on Lake Maggiore, where holidays are considered prestigious, prices soar - especially during the tourist season. But what a variety of hotels! You can even live on the Borromean Islands. True, such a pleasure will cost twenty-three thousand rubles per night. A lot of hotels are located in two resort towns - Verbanya and Stresa. Demanding clients can be advised five-star hotel "Villa e Palazzo Aminta" or "Grand Majestic". An excellent choice of housing is provided by local "fours": "Belvedere", "Ankora" and others. Prices in them range from five to seven thousand rubles. Do not be afraid to stop in the "threes". The hotels Albergo Pesque d'Oro, Aquadolce and Il Chiostro in Verbanya are an excellent balance between price and quality of services. The cost of a room in such hotels is about three thousand rubles. Campsites are open during the summer months. Not only customers with a car can stay in them. Campsites rent out mobile homes.
Sights of Lake Maggiore
Rest on this large alpine reservoir is remarkable not only natural beauties. In terms of saturation with historical and cultural attractions, Lago Maggiore is not much inferior to Milan, Turin or Verona. The lake is a wonderful symbiosis of lush southern nature and human genius. Palaces and villas fit beautifully into the landscape. An excursion to Lake Maggiore would not be complete without visiting the islands. Especially popular is the Borromeo archipelago with Isolo Bella (on which the Cardinal's palace is located), Pescatori, Madre, San Giovanni and the tiny Scoglio della Malghera. But the islands will be discussed below. It should be mentioned that the shores of the lake also do not lack palaces, villas and wonderful botanical gardens. beach holiday against the backdrop of these miracles fades into the background. And nature, which endowed Maggiore with rocky picturesque shores, did not create conditions for it. The beaches are mainly artificial terraces above the water surface. But there are excellent conditions for hiking and cycling tourism. On a small tourist boat, yacht or boat, you can make an exciting journey on Lake Maggiore.
Resorts on the west coast of the mountain reservoir
Each one is interesting in its own way. In Piedmont, the most "promoted" are Stresa and Verbania. The latter is due to the fact that it is a well-developed transport node. Verbania has already become like Sochi - it included small towns. And Stresa is interesting because it is easy to get to the Borromean Islands from it. In addition, the funicular cabins start from it, taking tourists to the top of Mount Mottarone, from where a charming view of the lake opens. Arona is very interesting. Here, in 1538, San Carlun, a representative of the noble Borromeo family, was born. The family nest, the fortress of Rocca Arona, no longer exists - it was destroyed by Napoleon's troops. But you can admire the "Colossus of San Carlon" - a thirty-five-meter sculpture of this cleric. Also very interesting are the resorts of Cannobio, Ogebbio, Cannero Riviera, Ghiffa, Baveno, Belgirate, Meina, Lesa, Castelletto sopra Ticino and Dormelletto. Special mention should be made of Stresa. Here are the most famous villas on Lake Maggiore. You should definitely see the Pallavicino Palace with a beautiful park. Also worth visiting are the Villa Ducale and the Castelli. Cannobio is a very ancient town with traces of the Romans. Above Ghiffa, not far from Verbania, rises the mountain of the Holy Trinity. There is a complex of chapels included in the UNESCO list.
Resort pearls of Lombardy
Even if you live on the western shore, nothing prevents you from crossing the narrow Lake Maggiore to admire the wonderful sights of the eastern region. Directly opposite Stresa is located Angera. She is famous for her medieval castle, which alternately changed brilliant owners - Scalligeri, Visconti, Borromeo. Angera should be visited with children, because inside the ancient citadel there is a wonderful place. It was founded at the end of the 20th century by Princess Bona Borromeo-Arrese. Lake Maggiore on the Lombard side is adorned with such equally interesting resorts as Ranko, Sesto Calende, Ispra, Besozzo, Brebbia, Monvalle, Laveno Mombello, Lejuno, Castelveccana, Brezzo di Bedero, Porto Valtravaglia, Germignaga, Maccagno, Luino, Tronzano Lago Maggiore and Pino sulla Sponda. A real tourist attraction east coast is the monastery of Santa Catarina del Sasso. It was literally carved into a steep cliff at the beginning of the fourteenth century. The monastery seems impregnable, but you can get into it not only from the side of the water, but also from the land. Lovers of untouched nature can be advised to visit national park Ticino. It is divided between Lombardy and Piedmont. The park stretches along both banks of the Ticino River.
Islands of Lake Maggiore
Of course, the main attraction of the Alpine reservoir is the Borromeo archipelago. It consists of three small and two very tiny islands. Almost the entire territory of Isola Bella is occupied by the Borromeo Palace. The island is separated from the town of Stresa by only four hundred meters of water. The palace itself was built in the Lombard Baroque style in 1632 by Charles III Borromeo for his wife Isabella. A beautiful park, consisting of Italian and English parts, was laid out later. The castle was visited by Napoleon with Josephine, the English Queen Caroline of Brunswick and other famous people. The name "Isola Pescatori" suggests that this islet has been inhabited by fishermen since ancient times. It is worth visiting this town and wandering through its narrow streets. On this tiny piece of land, three hundred meters long and a hundred meters wide, several hotels nestled. "Albergo Verbano" consists of only twelve rooms, so you need to book in advance. Isola Madre is privately owned. You can only admire them from a distance. Lake Maggiore is famous not only for the Borromeo archipelago. Three islets of Castelli di Kennero rise off the coast of Connobio. Ancient castles once towered on them - hence the name. The Lombardy region, unlike Piedmont, has only one island on Lago Maggiore. This is Isolino Partegora. But it has a great sandy beach.
What to try in this region
Lake Maggiore has long been famous for its fish. Therefore, the local region has developed its own cuisine, different from the Lombard and Piedmontese, where meat and cheeses are the main ingredients. So everywhere on Lago Maggiore you should taste lake fish dishes. Naturally, in the summer heat it’s nice to refresh yourself with wonderful Italian ice cream. There is no shortage of traditional pizzerias and spaghettias here. But there are places on the lake that serve specialties that can only be tasted here and nowhere else. Gourmets should visit Stresa not only for the villas of Pallavicino and Ducale, the Borromean Islands or the peak of Mottarone. Only in this town they make delicious crumbly Margheritine cookies. The recipe for this dessert at the end of the nineteenth century was invented by a culinary specialist from Stresa especially for the Princess of Savoy. Margherita later became Queen of Italy.
