Lago Maggiore is of course famous as a summer destination and several of the main attractions in the Lago Maggiore area (Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Angera Castle) close in winter - usually from mid-March to mid-October. Similarly, most hotels also close whilst the smaller towns tend to go into hibernation through the winter months.

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But winter on Lago Maggiore doesn’t have to be synonymous with bleak and desolate. In fact, as there is no summer heat haze and the sky is often remarkably clear. If you're lucky you'll be able to enjoy a brilliant blue sky, dazzling white mountains and a rich blue lake. You'll  therefore usually find the most spectacular views and, best of all, you’ll often have the whole place to yourself.

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Hiking and cycling are fun any time of year but during the winter the atmosphere is often magical. And of course you always have the option of a day’s skiing in one of the many local ski resorts.

 

And then there are the many increasingly popular Christmas markets with their typical Alpine atmosphere.

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We have compiled a list of Lago Maggiore attractions which stay open throughout the winter, or, in certain cases, only on weekends.

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Orta

Whatever the weather and regardless of the time of year, the town of Orta San Giulio (or just Orta) on Lake Orta, is always spectacular. Wander round the narrow lanes and take a boat to the island where nothing seems to have changed in centuries. For an otherwordly experience visit the Basilica on the island for the Sunday morning service. You’ll be sharing the church with 70 nuns from the island’s monastery.

 

 

Premia Hot Springs

These hot water pools – up in the mountains above Domodossola - come into their own in winter when snow lies on the grounds and the pools of hot water steam. There is also a modern spa centre offering massages, sauna, Turkish bath etc.

 

 

Santa Caterina

One of Lago Maggiore’s most famous sights. Santa Caterina is a cliff hanging monastery suspended dramatically over Lago Maggiore. In winter – usually open Saturday and Sunday and on public holidays  - it can only be reached by car; from the car park you can walk down or take a futuristic lift inside the hill.

 

 

Sacro Monte di Varese

One of the trio of major sights on the eastern shore of Lago Maggiore (together with Santa Caterina and Angera Castle), this Holy Mountain is a Unesco heritage sight. The picturesque hilltop village with its churches and chapels is spectacular at any time of year but stunning in the snow.

 

 

Locarno Spa

Stylish hot pools over the border in Locarno, Switzerland. The water temperature is a very hot 39 degrees. An outdoor infinity pool overlooks the lake.

 

 

Wine tasting

Just outside the town of Borgomanero and less than 30 minutes from Arona is Cantina Fontechiara vineyard. Open by appointment throughout the year, the wine-tasting experience is educational and fun.

 

 

Skiing

There are plenty of ski-resorts in the area between Lago Maggiore and the Swiss border and they cater to both downhill and cross-country skiers. The most convenient however is Mottarone, just 30 minutes above Stresa and reachable by car. The highest point is nearly 1500 metres above sea level.

 

 

 

Volandia and Alfa Romeo Museums

If the weather is too inclement to allow for outdoor activities, you might enjoy visiting one of these two transport museums. Volandia, next to Malpensa airport, is Italy’s top transport museum whilst the Alfa Romeo museum built on the site of the old factory outside Milan, is just 40 minutes from Arona.

 

 

Hiking

The best hiking opportunities in winter are usually above the tree line but not too far from the lake, especially on south facing slopes where snow quickly melts. One particularly enjoyable hike takes you along a mountainous military road built during the First World War road in the direction of Monte Zeda. The views over Lago Maggiore are stunning. You can also explore the series of tunnels built deep inside the mountain at nearby Monte Morisolo.

 

 

Arona

The only town on the lake which buzzes with life all year round, dynamic Arona is Lago Maggiore’s nightlife capital. You’ll find countless bars and restaurants patronised mostly by Italians, whilst during the day, chic Corso Cavour offers excellent shopping. A great place to brighten up an overcast winter’s day.

 

 

Shopping

Another classic winter activity, especially once the winter sales start; options include Arona’s attractive, pedestrian Corso Cavour, Vicolungo Style Outlets as well as plenty of factory outlets

 

 

AquadventurePark Lago Maggiore

In the town of Baveno, next to Stresa, a heated swimming pool with three slides (slides only open in winter on Saturday afternoon and Sunday). Check opening times online.

 

 

Cheese-tasting

Guffanti in Arona is Italy’s last serious cheese affineur. They also organise fascinating tours of their cheese cellars.

 

 

Pombia Safari Park

A zoo, safari-park and amusement park all rolled into one. More than enough to keep children amused for an entire day. In winter, often open on weekends and public holidays.