Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in Arona, Novara!

Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo (Sancarlone)

Why Visit?

Discover the Majestic Sancarlone: A Wheelchair-Friendly Guide

Welcome to a day of exploration at the iconic Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo, affectionately known as Sancarlone. A towering tribute to the town"s patron saint, this statue offers a unique and accessible adventure near the scenic shores of Lake Maggiore in Arona, Italy.

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Start your day with a scenic drive or ride to Arona. For those coming from Milan, the most convenient approach is by train. Trains are accessible, with assistance available upon request to help board and disembark. Once in Arona, catch a local accessible taxi or a bus equipped with ramps to the statue, located just a few kilometers from the station.

Upon arrival at Sancarlone, situated in the peaceful park of the Collegio Rosmini, navigate through the lush gardens via well-maintained, wheelchair-friendly paths. The park opens at 9:00 AM, allowing you to enjoy the serene morning atmosphere.

Midday: The Colossus Up Close

Captivating visitors since 1698, the statue stands at a monumental 35 meters, including its base. The impressive bronze viewing gallery, which offers awe-inspiring views of Arona and the lake, is sadly not accessible by wheelchair. However, the statue"s grandeur is equally impactful from the base, where detailed informative panels in English and Italian tell the story of its construction and significance.

Afternoon: Leisure and Local Cuisine

Post exploration, head to the nearby lakeside promenade in Arona. Many restaurants here offer accessible entrances and terraces, perfect for an alfresco lunch. Enjoy regional dishes like rustic risotto and freshly caught fish, all while soaking up views of the shimmering Lake Maggiore.

Departure

Conclude your visit with a gentle stroll along the promenade or a rest in one of the many accessible lakeside parks before heading back to the station for your return journey, invigorated by the day’s unique blend of art, history, and nature.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Lake Orta (Lago di Orta)

Why Visit?

Day 1: Discovering Orta San Giulio

Start your adventure at the charming village of Orta San Giulio. Park at the designated disability-friendly parking area near the main square, Piazza Motta, which is a convenient spot as it"s flat and close to the town’s attractions. Wander through the picturesque streets lined with artisan shops and quaint cafés. Many of these are accessible, though some might need assistance due to old thresholds.

Visit the main attraction, the beautiful Church of Santa Maria Assunta. This historic site offers ramped access for an easy visit, allowing everyone to enjoy its stunning interior and peaceful ambiance.

For lunch, head to a lakeside restaurant with accessible facilities, such as Ristorante Venus, which offers breathtaking views of the lake along with delicious local cuisine.

Day 2: Isola San Giulio

Begin your day with a serene boat ride to Isola San Giulio, the jewel of Lake Orta. The public boats are equipped with ramps and staff are ready to assist, ensuring a smooth embarkation from Orta’s main dock. The island, dominated by its ancient monastery, is a sight to behold. Though some parts of the island may be challenging to navigate, the main path around the island is accessible.

Explore the Basilica di San Giulio, known for its stunning frescoes and Romanesque architecture. The basilica is accessible, though assistance might be required for the slight incline leading up to it.

Day 3: Sacro Monte di Orta

Conclude your visit with a trip to Sacro Monte di Orta, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The site offers designated disabled parking and accessible paths that lead through its 20 chapels, each adorned with life-size sculptures and frescoes depicting the life of St. Francis of Assisi. The spiritual and tranquil environment here makes a perfect end to your Lake Orta exploration.

Each location in your itinerary combines ease of access with the rich history and stunning views of Lake Orta, ensuring a fulfilling experience for all visitors.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Isola Bella

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating and accessible adventure to Italy"s enchanting Isola Bella, a gem nestled in Lake Maggiore. This wheelchair-friendly itinerary ensures smooth sailing through the island"s stunning attractions, blending Baroque art and lush gardens with ease and comfort.

Getting There

Start your journey from Stresa, a charming lakeside town. From Piazza Marconi, catch a wheelchair-accessible boat, equipped with ramps and dedicated spaces, for the 15-minute scenic ride to Isola Bella. Boats usually operate from March to October, ensuring a pleasant experience in the milder months.

Palazzo Borromeo

Upon arrival at Isola Bella, head straight to the majestic Palazzo Borromeo, which is partially accessible to wheelchair users. The ground floor of the palace showcases opulent rooms adorned with rare artworks and antique furniture. While the upper floors are not wheelchair accessible, the beauty of the ground floor and the informative displays provide a deep dive into the island"s rich history.

The Italianate Baroque Garden

Accessible directly from the palace, the gardens of Isola Bella are a true highlight. Smooth pathways lead you through a series of terraced gardens adorned with statues, fountains, and exotic plants. The lower terraces are fully accessible, offering breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding mountains. Rest areas are strategically placed, inviting you to relax and soak up the serene atmosphere.

Dining and Facilities

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the café within the palace grounds, which features accessible dining options and restroom facilities. The café offers local cuisine that compleates the royal experience.

Practical Tips

- Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds.

- Check the boat schedule in advance and opt for services offering accessible boarding.

- Remember to bring a camera to capture the stunning views and intricate details of this island paradise.

Explore Isola Bella at your own pace, where history and nature are perfectly aligned to provide a memorable, barrier-free experience.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.