Lake Maggiore, Orta and the Matterhorn

Just as our desire to explore and experience new lands is timeless, so too is the beauty of the Italian Lakes, unfailingly delighting visitors for centuries.

A favourite from the days of the Grand Tour, it is hardly surprising that countless composers, poets and writers have sought inspiration on the majestic Lake Maggiore. Its heady mix of serene, deep waters, forest-clad hillsides, typical Italian medieval villages and mouth-watering fresh food make it hard to beat.

Lake Maggiore straddles both Italy and Switzerland, and we stay in Stresa, a very stylish Italian town and once a favourite haunt of Hemingway, Chaplin and many others or Baveno, an enchanting, little lakeside town. As well as Lake Maggiore, we explore the equally beautiful Lake Como, plus the hidden gem that is Lake Orta, probably one of the most entrancing places you will ever visit. With the arc of the majestic Alps stretching out along the horizon you will enjoy fine mountain scenery during your tours to Switzerland - chic Locarno and dramatic Zermatt - including the mighty Matterhorn. Then there are the delightful lost valleys, tumbling glacier streams and classic chalets all blended together to offer a truly inspirational tour.