A timeless escape through the legacy of the Italian Lakes

DAY 1 - Welcome

Welcome to Italy!

Upon arrival in Milano Malpensa Airport, your private driver will greet you for a comfortable transfer to your Arona Boutique hotel: a castle overlooking the south of Lake Maggiore.

Once settled in, you’ll have the rest of the day to unwind and ease into the rhythm of the lake.

Our Suggestions:

La Rocca di Arona – the birthplace of Saint Charles Borromeo, offering sweeping views over Lake Maggiore.

Parco dei Lagoni di Mercurago – the birthplace of Ribot, the fastest racehorse of the 20th century and a true legend of Italian sport.

Villa Ponti and the charming streets of Arona – after visiting the historic Villa Ponti, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Arona’s elegant shopping streets.

As evening falls, perhaps wander along the lakeside promenade, soaking in the golden light, the soft hum of café life, and the unmistakable charm of Lake Maggiore.

This first day is all about relaxing, breathing in the atmosphere, and savoring your surroundings before the adventures ahead.

Services Included:

• Private transfer from Milano Malpensa Airport to hotel
• 2 nights in hotel type: 5* – Deluxe Room or Junior Suite

DAY 2 - Discoverthe Noble Lake

Rocca di Angera – Lunch in Lesa – Private Visit at Villa Stampa Manzoni – Cruise around the Best Spots of Lake Maggiore.

After a delicious breakfast served in your room, get ready to discover the noble history of Lake Maggiore. Your private captain will be waiting at the pier in Arona to welcome you aboard for an enchanting journey filled with stories, legends, and glimpses into the lives of aristocratic families.

Your first destination: Rocca di Angera, a rare example of a perfectly preserved medieval fortress. Wander through its historic rooms, towers, and romantic courtyards, explore the museum, and stroll through the panoramic gardens—three hours of pure fascination and breathtaking views overlooking the entire lake.

After the visit, your captain will take you back on board to continue your cruise toward Lesa, where an exclusive lunch awaits, surrounded by the gentle rhythm of the lake.

A short walk brings you to Villa Stampa Manzoni, where the writer Alessandro Manzoni used to spend his summer holidays. Within its intimate 60-square-meter room lies a treasure trove of history—a journey into the lesser-known side of Manzoni, in a land he loved to explore deeply and often.

Continue your cruise without further stops, simply enjoying the ever-changing panorama of the lake—the noble villas of the 19th century, the Borromeo Gulf, and the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso. As you take it all in, savor a delightful aperitivo on board a luxurious Venetian water taxi. End your day with a dinner at your hotel.

Services Included:

• Private transfer to Arona
• Cruise all day around Lake Maggiore
• Lunch in exclusive restaurant in Lesa
• Aperitif on the boat

DAY 3 - Lake Orta off the Radar

Sacro Monte – Lunch in Pella – Private Visit at Madonna del Sasso – Dinner to Remember.

Today you’ll uncover the timeless charm of Lake Orta, beginning with the Sacro Monte di Orta, part of the group of nine Alpine Sacred Mountains between Piedmont and Lombardy, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2003.

This monumental complex stands on a wooded promontory overlooking the lake and is entirely dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi. It comprises 21 chapels that illustrate the saint’s life through intricate sculptures and frescoes, as well as an ancient hospice and the Church of San Nicolao.

The site offers extraordinary panoramic views over Lake Orta and the enchanting Island of San Giulio, creating a perfect harmony between art, faith, and nature.

After your visit, board a private boat and enjoy an exclusive lunch on the shores of Pella, soaking in the gentle rhythm of the lake and the surrounding scenery.

Next, head up to the hill of the Church of Madonna del Sasso, a site of rare beauty that overlooks the entire lake. Here, the combination of history, architecture, and breathtaking vistas makes for an unforgettable experience.

To conclude the day, savor a timeless dinner on a magical terrace overlooking Lake Orta, where the enchanting atmosphere of the lake creates a truly unforgettable evening.

Services Included:

• Private transfer to Orta
• Private boat cruise from Orta to Pella and back
• Exclusive lunch at a distinguished restaurant in Pella
• Memorable dinner in Vacciago, with magical views over Lake Orta

DAY 4 - The Petite Versailles

I Giardini Estensi – Parco di Villa Toeplitz – Your Natural Relais.

Leave the shores of Lake Maggiore to uncover some of the small yet extraordinary hidden gems of Lake Varese. Just 1 hour and 15 minutes away, you’ll find a mini Versailles, commissioned by Duke Francesco III d’Este of Modena.

Francesco III’s vision was to create a sumptuous residence, inspired by the Viennese Schönbrunn Palace, where grand outdoor celebrations could be held amidst gardens worthy of his rank.

This remarkable estate is a must-visit, alongside Villa Toeplitz, which will be your next stop before reaching your nature-immersed resort near Lake Como.

Once at your resort, settle in and dedicate your afternoon to rejuvenation in nature with a bioenergetic forest experience, a unique journey designed to relax, restore, and reconnect you with the surrounding natural beauty.

Services Included:

• Transfer
• Private visit at Giardini Estensi, Villa Toeplitz
• Bioenergetic Forest Experience
• 2 nights stay at your Natural Relais

DAY 5 - Sailing the Authentic - Wave of Lake Como

Menaggio – Varenna – Corenno Plinio – Bellano – Como.

Step aboard for a unique sailing journey across the lesser-known corners of Lake Como, far from the usual tourist routes.

Guided by an experienced skipper, you’ll navigate the lake’s quiet bays, secret inlets, and historic villages, discovering the most authentic and untouched side of this iconic destination.

Let the wind guide your route as you experience Lake Como from the water, just as locals and sailors have for generations. Along the way, enjoy moments of silence, a deep connection with nature, and the ever-changing play of light on the lake and surrounding mountains.

You will make a stop in one bay to savor an exclusive dinner on board, prepared by your private chef, before returning to your hotel.

Services Included:

• Transfer to Menaggio
• Step aboard Grace
• Sailing day experience around the best harbors of Lake Como
• Stop in Corenno Plinio and Varenna
• Dinner on board

DAY 6 – Promessi Sposi Promenade

The Story of Renzo e Lucia on “That Branch of the Lake of Como”.

“That Branch of Lake Como, which extends towards the south, is enclosed by two unbroken chains of mountains…” —so begins the timeless story of I Promessi Sposi by Alessandro Manzoni.

Today, you will walk the streets that inspired one of Italy’s greatest novels, beginning in Lecco. Visit Villa Manzoni, a museum preserving furniture, personal objects, and the original editions of the novel from 1827 and 1840. In the city center, discover traces of Lecco’s medieval past, including the Vallo delle Mura and the Torre Viscontea. Across Piazza Manzoni, the Azzone Visconti Bridge marks the passage between Lake Lecco and the River Adda, as described by Manzoni.

Next, wander through Pescarenico, a timeless district of narrow alleys and colorful houses. At the piers, see a Lucia, a traditional Lake Como boat, linked to the flight of the novel’s two central characters. Nearby, in Piazza Padre Cristoforo, visit the Church of San Materno and the former Monastery of Frà Cristoforo.

The surrounding villages of Acquate and Olate reveal further literary landmarks: Lucia’s House, the Tabernacle of the Bravi, and Don Rodrigo’s Palace. Just outside the city, in Vercurago, stands the fortress that inspired the Castle of the Unnamed, bringing Manzoni’s story vividly to life.

After this enchanting literary journey, continue to your next hotel on Lake Iseo, reflecting on the timeless romance and rich history of this extraordinary corner of Italy.

Services Included:

• Transfer to Lecco
• A historic visit with a professional historiographer
• Lunch at local restaurant close to Vercurago

DAY 7 – Lake Iseo – The Picturesque Lake

Benvenuti sul Lago d’Iseo.

From your relais nestled in a charming rural setting, begin your journey at the Riva boat restoration yard, where the iconic boats of Lake Iseo are lovingly restored.

After a private tour showcasing the finest restoration techniques, step aboard for a scenic cruise toward Monte Isola, an island that has preserved its authenticity and rich fishing traditions.

On the island, enjoy a bicycle ride to a historic building perched on the hillside, where you will savor a tasting of local salami accompanied by panoramic lake views.

Return by boat to experience the spectacular Orrido del Bogn, one of Italy’s most striking natural gorges, located in Riva di Solto. The gorge’s dramatic beauty is remarkable in every season, offering a truly unforgettable moment.

Continue by boat to the shores of Sulzano, where you can enjoy a cocktail at a bar renowned for extraordinary aperitifs, immersing yourself in the lake’s relaxed and refined atmosphere. Finally, return to your country relais.

Services Included:

• Transfer to Sarnico
• Boat tour
• Sunset aperitif

DAY 8 – Bike & Wine Allure

Franciacorta Wine Tasting.

From your relais nestled in a charming rural setting, embark on a bicycle journey along scenic roads weaving through the vineyards of Franciacorta. Here, everything unfolds in the open air, offering a perfect immersion in nature and wine country.

Pedal through the rolling vineyards until you reach a historic Franciacorta castle with its renowned cellars. Enjoy a beautiful journey among the vines, learning about the region’s grape varieties and winemaking traditions, culminating in an exclusive horizontal wine tasting at the castle.

Return to your hotel by bike and conclude the day with a refined dinner at your relais, reflecting on a day of spectacular scenery, authentic flavors, and elegant exploration.

Services Included:

• Bicycle transfer and guided route through the vineyards of Franciacorta
• Guided exploration of a historic castle and its wine cellars
• Horizontal wine tasting showcasing the castle’s signature wines

DAY 9 – Lake Garda – Your Wellness Hideaway

Lake Garda – Wellness Day.

A short transfer takes you to your next destination on Lake Garda—a five-star boutique hotel where the guiding word is relaxation. Immerse yourself in pure tranquility within your private spa overlooking the lake, and dedicate the day entirely to your own wellbeing.

Indulge in the option of an in-room massage service or a sunset yoga session, before ending the day with a refined dinner featuring exclusive local flavors.

Services Included:

• Transfer to Lake Garda
• Private session yoga and massage

DAY 10 – Lake Garda

Garda in Yacht Cruise.

Your private yacht awaits you on the shores of Gargnano, ready to take you to some of the lake’s most unforgettable destinations—Punta San Vigilio, Sirmione, Limone sul Garda, and Malcesine.

Enjoy a private visit to Isola del Garda, where you will take part in an olive oil tasting surrounded by breathtaking views and timeless charm.

Continue your journey with a stop at an elegant lakeside restaurant, where lunch is served right above the shimmering water.

Return to your hotel filled with the emotions and beauty of Lake Garda, carrying with you the memories of an extraordinary day on the water.

Services Included:

• Yacht cruise
• Lunch
• Private visit at Isola del Garda

DAY 11 - Our Greetings from The Lakes

Departure from Milano Bergamo Airport.