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The Hidden Lakes and Gardens of Italy
A stylish and relaxed train journey through Europe transports you to Lake Orta, a paradise in Northern Italy. Lying in the foothills of the Alps, Lake Orta provides the perfect setting for our holiday with its glistening waters, exotic flowers and plants, and charming old buildings. From here, we’ll visit the villages that dot the shores of stunning Lake Maggiore, soak up the outstanding natural beauty of Lake Como and visit Milan with its rich history, architectural treasures and romantic allure.
Tour Includes
- 7 nights hotel with continental breakfast
- 6 evening meals
- Return Eurostar from London to Paris
- Return TGV from Paris to Stresa
- Services of an experienced Tour Manager
8 days from £1,445pp
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Inbound Travel
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Itinerary
Please choose your preferred 8 day itinerary
We journey aboard Eurostar from London to Paris and join the TGV to Stresa, where we are transferred by coach to our hotel on the shores of Lake Orta.
Today is free to explore Lake Orta, a star in this constellation of subalpine lakes. Situated entirely in Piedmont, it’s only 8 miles long and less than 2 miles wide. It is truly a location for sublime moments; in fact, it’s a rather secret place. Today, both lunch and dinner are included in the hotel’s restaurant.
Includes Breakfast
Includes Lunch
Includes Dinner
Included Highlights
Today, we offer an included excursion by coach visiting scenic Lake Maggiore. Our first stop is Villa Taranto which is one of the most important botanic gardens in the world, with thousands of species of trees and flowers, planted over an area of around 16 hectares. It has a wealth of colour and scents with eucalyptus, azaleas, rhododendrons, magnolias, port wine magnolias, maples, camellias, and dozens of tropical plants. After our included visit, we then continue to Stresa on the lake’s western shore. Stresa has a wonderful lakeside promenade, where you can see the famous Borromean Islands of Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola Superiore dei Pescatori. There’s an array of medieval buildings, palaces, beautiful gardens, and museums, as well as an abundance of bars and restaurants. You’ll have free time here to explore before we return to the hotel by coach.
Includes Breakfast
Includes Dinner
Included Highlights
Today’s excursion by coach takes us to Lake Como and Tremezzo. Our first stop is Lake Como which is striking for both its mountainous landscape and shores dotted with picturesque villages, luxurious villas and parks. We visit the town of Como at the foot of the Como branch where there are many artistic sights to take in, including the 11th-century Church of Sant’Abbondio and the Basilica of San Fedele. The heart of the old town is the Piazza del Duomo – its Renaissance cathedral is one of the most beautiful churches in Lombardy. You’ll have plenty of time to explore – perhaps you’ll take a boat trip across the lake or enjoy a ride on the funicular railway.
Our next visit is the popular town of Tremezzo, where you can enjoy some of the most spectacular views on the lake. One of the most visited destinations in the town is the Villa Carlotta, the only historic villa on the lake which offers public access. The other villas are private, but you can still admire their beautiful structures and architecture. You’ll have free time here to explore at leisure before we return to our hotel.
Includes Breakfast
Includes Dinner
Included Highlights
Today is free for you to spend in our resort of Lake Orta. You can either relax or you may choose to visit some of the wonderful sights on the island of San Giulio (not included).
Includes Breakfast
Includes Dinner
Today, we include a full-day excursion by coach to Milan. Milan is internationally famous for fashion and design. It is also home to several historic and artistic attractions and is a fascinating city to explore. You'll have plenty of free time at leisure before we return by coach to Lake Orta.
Includes Breakfast
Includes Dinner
Included Highlights
Enjoy a further free day in resort. Relax amid the spectacular scenery or explore the surrounding area.
Includes Breakfast
Includes Dinner
We depart in the morning, travelling back to Paris where our Eurostar connection returns us to London St. Pancras International.
Includes Breakfast
Please note: due to the late arrival on day one, lunch and dinner will be provided on day two.
Accommodation
You will stay for seven nights at the Hotel Giardinetto.
Hotel Giardinetto
The 4-star Hotel Giardinetto in Pettenasco lies on the shores of Lake Orta. Here you can enjoy all the comforts of a modern hotel: a private beach, outdoor pool and a landing stage. There is also a restaurant with a lakeside veranda as well as a large banquet hall.
Hotel Facilities
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General
- 4 Star
- Guest Lounge
- Lift
Room
- TV
- Tea and Coffee Making Facilities
- Hairdryer
- Safe Box
- Air Conditioning
- Shower or Bath
- Telephone
- Free Wifi
Accessibility
- Disabled Rooms Available
Hotel
- Guest Lounge
- Lift
- WiFi Available
Holidays by Rail
Step aboard Eurostar at London St Pancras for a fast and comfortable journey to mainland Europe. On arrival in Amsterdam or Brussels, you will then join connecting services for your onward journey.
Overnight stays in Central London can be arranged as Eurostar departure times are generally early morning and return arrival in the evening, which our Holiday Advisors would be pleased to arrange.
Departure Dates
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