Italy: Italian Lakes

The long, thin fingers of these three beautiful lakes stretch from Switzerland into Italy, drawing together alpine and southern scenery in delightful juxtaposition. This walking experience unfolds against the backdrop of sculpted mountain peaks, and by the reflections of crystal alpine lakes. The walks in this beautifully varied landscape, allow you to wander back through the ages along medieval footpaths exploring colorful lakeside villages and traditional hillside hamlets.
     The itinerary includes three distinct lakes: Lake Orta, the smallest, peaceful and rich with history from many eras; Lake Maggiore, where the rustic way of the fisherman’s life contrasts dramatically with formal gardens and sumptuous villas; and Lake Como, the stunningly elegant lake and landscape that has inspired poets, artists, and writers, and enchanted walkers for centuries. The walking is as varied as the landscape. You wander through forests under arched canopies of chestnut and oak leaves, down narrow cobblestone streets lined with cafés and artisan shops, along rugged paths laid out in granite steps, through terraced vineyards and olive groves, and across the soft carpets of tended villa lawns.