My daughter and I will have 3-4 days to spend in the lake region. Is it possible to visit all three in three days. If you were to choose, which lake(s) would you choose? Is it possible to arrange a tour guide in this area so you get the most from your visit? If so, who do you recommend.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32405 posts
Faye,
While it may be feasible to visit all three in that time frame, I wouldn't recommend it as you'd have such a short time at each it would hardly be worthwhile. Even visiting two lakes wouldn't allow a lot of time, considering that each change of location will use about half a day.
My suggestion would be either Lago di Como (Varenna) or Lago Maggiore (Stresa) depending on what type of "experience" you're interested in. If you're going to spend two nights at each lake, that will only allow one full day of touring so you'll have to decide whether that's adequate. Of the two, you might consider three days in Stresa. You could spend one day touring the elegant Borromeo Islands, take a day trip to Locarno (CH) via the scenic Cento Valli Railway (returning by boat in the evening), and the remaining time exploring Stresa (including the Alpine Gardens at Mt. Mottarone).
I doubt you'll need a tour guide to "get the most from your visit" if you plan your touring carefully using information in the guidebook.
Posted by
San Francisco Bay Area (USA)
16243 posts
I can't even fathom visiting all three in such a short time.
Each deserves at the very least 3 nights (2 full days plus whichever amount of hours available on the day of arrival). Lake Maggiore, suggested by Ken, is an excellent choice. On the way to Locarno don't forget to visit Cannobio. In addition to lake Maggiore, you could also add nearby Lake Orta ( just minutes away) with the beautiful village of Orta San Giulio on its shore. If you can add a fourth night, that would be ideal for both lakes.
Posted by
1 posts
Depending on the age of your daughter. If she is very young, you would enjoy GardaLand. IMHO, Stressa on Lake Maggiore is the most beautiful place on earth and I very much enjoyed Isola Bella (castle and grounds with white peacocks) on the Borromean Islands. Have tea in the Hotel Regina Palace. Enjoy!