AN ENCHANTING SUMMER ON ITALIAN LAKES

The region’s joining of art and nature is nowhere more evident than at Villa Carlotta. Crossing the waters of Lake Como this morning, we explore the villa’s vast art collection, acquired over three centuries. The nearby Villa Balbianello was built as a retreat by Cardinal Durini at the end of the 18th century. From the gorgeous yellow edifice of this luxurious dwelling, visitors can follow tree-lined pathways on a winding descent through immaculate lawns, and past majestic topiary, to the shimmering waters of the lake. During lunch, we relish Ristorante Crotto dei Platani’s prime position on the edge of Lake Como. Enjoy the warm summer breeze as we dine upon the restaurant’s lakeview balcony. After once more crossing the lake by boat, we wander the exquisite garden of Villa Melzi, a site that has inspired many writers, artists and poets.

We make our way to Lake Como’s southern shores, where we find the clifftop village of Brunate. In the nearby city of Como, enjoy lakeside dining at your choice of restaurant. Soak in the aura of Lake Como further as we dine this evening at Ristorante Alle Darsene di Loppia.

This morning, we set out for a stroll through the peaceful village of Varenna, whose waterfront is populated with an abundance of pastel-coloured houses. A final lunch sees us dine at the lakefront Ristorante Lago, in nearby Menaggio, before we bid Italy a brief farewell. Our coach follows a spectacular route along the edge of Lake Lugano, and soon we are crossing into Switzerland, arriving in Lugano. On the banks of the lake, we’re presented with the majestic vision of Hotel Splendid Royale, our home for the next two nights. Savour fine Mediterranean cuisine this evening at our hotel’s La Veranda restaurant.

A guided tour of the city this morning further demonstrates the region’s beautiful lakeside settings. Lugano’s delightful squares, colourful buildings, and mountain panoramas are revealed before we choose from its many tempting restaurants. Perhaps take the afternoon to shop or relax on your own schedule before we reconvene for dinner at a local restaurant.

Our time in Switzerland draws to a close and we make our final border crossing back to Italy. Arriving in the lakeside town of Arona, we peruse the stalls of its morning markets. Afterwards, relax along the shores of Lake Maggiore and compare your respective finds, whether clothing, fresh produce, or some handcrafted ceramics. Following our relaxing afternoon, we come together at Ristorante Taverna del Pittore, overlooking Lake Maggiore. We then follow the shores of the lake north, along roads that wind their way through charming villages and past lush hillsides, on our way to Stresa. It’s then time to lap up the elegant interiors of the Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees, our residence for the next two evenings. We make our entrance to the refined Il Borromeo Restaurant for a gastronomic experience to savour, complete with magnificent views of Lake Maggiore.

This morning, embark a boat for a cruise of the Borromean Islands. Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Madre prove equal in beauty, yet each possesses its own distinct charm. On the sparsely populated Isola dei Pescatori, we dine on the fruits of the sea at La Pescheria. Reaching Isola Madre, we admire its grand 16th-century palace and English-style garden. The striking Teatro Massimo, meanwhile, takes pride of place on Isola Bella. Its intricate arrangement of statues and obelisks makes for an ethereal experience. You may also spy the occasional peacock roaming the grounds here. At the close of another day’s adventure, we take comfort in the traditional home-style cooking at the intimate Il Vicoletto restaurant.

We bid our grand hotel farewell this morning and travel south to Masserano. At Villa Cavalieri, we enjoy a tasting of local winery Colombera & Garella’s varietals. We continue our exploration of the Alto Piemonte wine region, tasting the finest wines of two of the area’s most renowned producers. Nearby, the town of Pettenasco rests on the shores of Lake Orta. It’s here that we come across our luxurious, contemporary hotel, Laqua by the Lake. This evening, we gather for dinner at the lakeside restaurant Ristorante Giardinetto.

This morning, we board a ferry for Isola San Giulio. It is said this island was once overrun with snakes and monsters, until St Giulio arrived upon the island and banished them. Today, the island’s population is comprised mostly of the nuns who live at the local convent. We see the Basilica di San Giulio, with its many elaborate frescoes, and wander the island’s maze of narrow alleyways. Back on the mainland, select where you would like to dine for lunch, from among Orta San Giulio’s many fine restaurants. This afternoon is yours to explore or relax as you wish. We dine in style this evening, as celebrated chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo fuses past and present, serving a range of inspired dishes from our hotel’s restaurant.

Today, we enjoy a relaxed morning before transferring to Milan’s Malpensa Airport. Our magnificent gourmet journey concludes as we farewell new-found friends and board our return flight to Milan.