Family-Friendly Adventures in Arona, Novara!

Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo (Sancarlone)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: Exploring the Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo (Sancarlone)

Morning Arrival

Start your adventure by driving or taking public transport to Arona, a charming town on the shores of Lake Maggiore in Northern Italy. For those using public transportation, trains regularly depart from Milan to Arona. Once in Arona, enjoy a scenic 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride to the site of the Sancarlone.

Exploring the Colossus

Arrive at the Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo, an impressive statue standing 35.1 meters tall, making it one of the tallest statues in the world. Begin with a tour around the base, where you can admire the intricate craftsmanship and learn about its construction, which was completed in 1698 as a tribute to the influential Cardinal Charles Borromeo.

Climbing the Statue

For an unforgettable experience, climb up the small spiral staircase inside the statue to the viewing platform in the saint’s head. Peering out from the eyes, you get a panoramic view of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding Alpine landscape — a perfect photo opportunity for the whole family!

Picnic Lunch

After descending from the statue, enjoy a picnic in the adjacent park. Pack a lunch or grab some local treats from a nearby shop in Arona. The park offers a serene setting with plenty of space for children to play and adults to relax.

Afternoon in Arona

Conclude your day with a stroll through Arona’s lovely streets. Visit the Arona Castle (Rocca Borromea) for a dash of history, and if time allows, treat the family to some delicious gelato from a local gelateria.

Departure

Head back to the train station or your parking area in Arona, filled with memories of an exciting day exploring one of Italy’s monumental treasures.

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

Lake Orta (Lago di Orta)

Why Visit?

Experience the enchanting beauty of Lake Orta, an idyllic Italian lake west of Lake Maggiore, perfect for a family getaway. Here"s a fun-filled itinerary that captures the magic and charm of this picturesque destination.

Day 1: Discover Orta San Giulio

- Start your adventure in the quaint village of Orta San Giulio. Park at the main car park at the entrance to the town and stroll through its narrow, cobbled streets.

- Visit the beautiful main square, Piazza Motta, which is lined with cafes perfect for a lakeside breakfast.

- Take the short boat ride from the square to the enchanting Isola San Giulio. Explore the island"s basilica, adorned with stunning frescoes and the silence cloister. Boats leave every half hour and the trip is a thrilling ride for the kids.

Day 2: Explore the Sacro Monte di Orta

- Head to Sacro Monte di Orta, a UNESCO World Heritage site located on a hill above Orta San Giulio. It"s easily reachable by a scenic walk or a short drive. This site features 20 chapels depicting the life of St. Francis of Assisi through frescoes and statues, set in a serene woodland—a great spot for children to learn and play.

- Enjoy a picnic lunch in the expansive grounds, offering spectacular views over the lake.

Day 3: Adventure in Omegna and Mottarone

- Drive to Omegna at the northern end of the lake, about a 20-minute journey from Orta. Visit the old town and enjoy the vibrant market if you’re there on a Thursday.

- Spend your afternoon at Mottarone, a mountain between Lake Orta and Lake Maggiore. Take the cable car from Stresa, which is an exciting experience for kids, offering breathtaking views. At the top, enjoy hiking or just relax and soak up the panoramic views of the Alps.

Each of these spots provides interactive and engaging experiences for children, ensuring that every member of the family leaves with cherished memories.

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

Isola Bella

Why Visit?

Isola Bella, a stunning island in Italy’s Lake Maggiore, is a fantastic destination for a family day out. Start your adventure from the town of Stresa where you can catch a ferry. The short, scenic ride across the azure waters of the lake itself is an enchanting experience, especially for children who might enjoy watching the water and the approaching beautiful island.

Once you land on Isola Bella, your first stop should be the magnificent Palazzo Borromeo. This Baroque palace, with its opulent rooms and impressive artworks, will captivate imaginations young and old. Don’t miss the grand Throne Room and the fascinating grottoes - a series of six caves decorated with pebbles and shells, which provide a cool retreat on hot days.

Next, step into the palace’s sprawling Italianate gardens. These are real-life wonderlands where peacocks wander freely and statues peek through the lush foliage. The gardens are tiered over 10 terraces, a design inspired by the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, offering breathtaking views of the lake. The kids will love exploring the garden’s many paths, discovering fountains, and maybe even making a wish at one!

For a lunch break, pack a picnic to enjoy in the garden, or head to the quaint café on the island for some Italian treats. Post-lunch, stroll around the small village on the island. Although it primarily serves the tourist trade with several shops and boutiques, it’s a good spot to pick up souvenirs.

Plan your return to Stresa in the late afternoon, allowing time to soak in the tranquil lake views one last time from the ferry. The whole experience combines education, adventure, and relaxation, making Isola Bella a highlight of any family trip to Northern Italy.

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