I'm flying into Milan Oct. 2. The rest of my group doesn't arrive until Oct. 6. I'm meeting them in Varenna. My thought is to head up to Stresa for a night or two, then up to Locarno and/or Lugano before heading over to Varenna to meet up with the group. Does that sound reasonable, or will I run out of things to do/see in that area by the end of Day 2? Also, if you have any other ideas or tips I'm open to suggestion. Thanks!
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32355 posts
Bob, NO, four days is absolutely not too long! I've spent that much time in Stresa (with a day trip to Locarno on the scenic Cento Valli Railway, returning by boat at the end of the day). Four days is NOT a long time to see that area, and you'll have to allow for travel times as well. With that time frame, I'd pick two locations out of the three (Stresa, Locarno, Lugano) and divide your time equally. All three are beautiful locations, and that time frame will provide a brief look. Happy travels!
Posted by
Bay Area
3551 posts
It is slow paced and very scenic. Hopefully that works for you if not it may be to long for you.
Posted by
Portland, OR, United States of America
59 posts
I don't know about too long since we spent our time before the tour in Milan rather than on the Lakes. When we met up with the group the weather was pretty bad, but it was April. If the weather had been nicer I could easily see spending a few days or more on the Lakes as long as food, wine, and scenery are some of your goals. Which brings me to the real reason I'm posting. If you like great wine and meat and cheese plates, then Cava turacciolo in Bellagio is one of the most enjoyable enotecas my wife and I spent time in during our two trips to Italy. It literally saved our day on the lake as we got out of the rain and had some incredible wines and food. http://www.cavaturacciolo.it/home.jsp It is a quick boat ride from Varenna.
Posted by
Shawnee, OK, USA
396 posts
You won't run out of things to do. 4 days will just whet your appetite! I concur with the Centovalli train trip as being wonderful. I also like to go, by boat, to Isola de Pestatori (not sure of the spelling) to eat at the restaurant Verbano....many islands with beautiful gardens, homes to view on Lake Maggiorie. Stresa is a good point from which to branch out. Cable car rides, waterfalls, train rides...lots to see and do. Enjoy! I will be staying in Cannobio which it not far from Locarno next week!!! Eat fish....it's a speciality around the lake.
Posted by
Lake Worth, Florida, USA
101 posts
Depends on how many days you have for your entire trip. The area is beautiful and it's a great place to rest and relax a few days. If you are alone it may be too long.