Adventure in Arona, Novara!

Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo (Sancarlone)

Why Visit?

Embark on a thrilling day’s adventure to the awe-inspiring Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo, commonly known as the Sancarlone, located in the picturesque town of Arona on the western shores of Lake Maggiore, Italy. This colossal statue, one of the tallest in the world, stands a majestic 35 meters tall, offering not just a historical journey but also panoramic views that will leave you breathless.

Morning: Arrival in Arona

Start your day early by catching a train from Milan to Arona, a charming trip that takes just under an hour. Once in Arona, enjoy a brief stroll through this quaint lakeside town, savoring a strong Italian espresso at one of the local cafés before heading to the statue.

Midday: Ascend the Colossus

Approach the imposing figure of San Carlo, which looms grandly over the town. Constructed in 1698, this bronze and copper statue was designed by Giovanni Battista Crespi and is dedicated to the influential Cardinal Charles Borromeo. Before you ascend, take a moment to appreciate the intricate details of the statue, from its solemn facial expression to the robes detailed with baroque flair.

Climb Inside the Statue

The highlight for any adventure lover is the climb up the narrow staircase inside the statue. Ascend the 128 steps to reach the head and shoulder viewing platforms. Here, you"ll be rewarded with a stunning, bird’s-eye view of Lake Magiere and the surrounding Italian Alps. It"s a surreal experience to peer out from within the head of this giant.

Afternoon: Explore Parco della Rocca

Post descent, take a leisurely hike around Parco della Rocca Borromea, which offers not only lush pathways and historic ruins but also splendid views of the lake and beyond.

Wrap up your visit by grabbing a gelato in Arona’s vibrant town center before heading back to Milan, filled with unforgettable memories of a giant among men.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Lake Orta (Lago di Orta)

Why Visit?

Adventure Itinerary: Exploring the Enchanting Lake Orta

Day 1: Arrival and Orta San Giulio Discovery

Start your adventure by arriving in Orta San Giulio, a picturesque village that seems suspended in time. Reachable by train from Milan to Orta-Miasino Station, followed by a short taxi ride, the village offers a magical beginning to your journey. Spend your day wandering through cobblestone streets, exploring artisan shops and enjoying lakeside views. Don’t miss the Sacro Monte di Orta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where 20 chapels dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi dot the hillside, each adorned with frescoes and statues from the 16th century.

Day 2: Island and Summit Adventures

Embark on a morning boat ride to the enchanting Isola San Giulio, just a short trip from the main square. The island, dominated by a silent Benedictine monastery, is perfect for a reflective walk around its perimeter, absorbing the tranquil spiritual ambiance. Return to Orta and gear up for an afternoon hike to the Mottarone peak. Catch a bus to the base and follow the marked trails for a vigorous 3-hour ascent. You’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Alps and the seven surrounding lakes.

Day 3: Watersports and Relaxation

Dive into water-based adventures such as kayaking or paddleboarding, with equipment easily rented from the main waterfront in Orta San Giulio. For the more adventurous, local operators offer wakeboarding and waterskiing. After a thrilling morning on the water, spend your afternoon cycling around the lake, with bike rentals available near the town center. The route is dotted with charming villages and stunning vistas, perfect for leisurely exploration.

Departure

Conclude your Lake Orta adventure by enjoying a final gelato on the piazza as the sun sets over the serene waters, before heading back to the station for your journey onwards. This enchanting Italian lake, smaller and quieter than its neighbors, offers an intimate escape into nature’s embrace, making every moment of exertion worth the unparalleled tranquility and beauty.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Isola Bella

Why Visit?

Isola Bella: A Jewel of Lake Maggiore

Embark on an exhilarating journey to Isola Bella, a splendid island nestled in the shimmering waters of Lake Maggiore in northern Italy. This tiny island, not just a haven of baroque art and architecture, promises adventure and discovery at every step.

Morning: Arrival and Palazzo Borromeo

Begin your adventure in the charming town of Stresa, located on the shores of Lake Maggiore. From here, frequent boats will whisk you away to Isola Bella (about a 10-minute ride). Once you disembark, head straight to the majestic Palazzo Borromeo. The palace, an epitome of 17th-century opulence, is your gateway to a labyrinth of beautifully adorned rooms and stunning artworks. But the real adventure lies in its grottoes - a series of underground rooms adorned with pebbles and shells, creating a surreal subterranean landscape.

Midday: The Italianate Gardens

Step outside to explore the terraced Italianate gardens, a baroque masterpiece where white peacocks roam freely. The garden"s ten terraces are a heroic creation of nature tamed by man, adorned with statues, fountains, and rare botanical specimens. Each level offers a new vista, a fresh adventure for the eyes and spirit.

Afternoon: Boating around the Borromean Gulf

Conclude your visit with a thrilling boat tour around the Borromean Gulf. Rent a small motorboat from Stresa and feel the wind in your hair as you navigate the waters, enjoying unparalleled views of the islands and the Alps beyond. For those seeking a quieter adventure, paddleboarding or kayaking are serene alternatives, providing a closer look at the island"s rugged shoreline and hidden coves.

Isola Bella is not just a visit; it"s an adventure of artistic and natural beauty, a jewel that continues to shine on the cerulean canvas of Lake Maggiore.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.