OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW
Set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Alps, the Italian lakes beckon with their enchanting and romantic vistas, waiting to be explored on foot. Over time, this picturesque region has blossomed into a haven of splendid villas and botanical marvels, thanks to its delightful climate. Embark on an unforgettable walking journey through the most scenic trails, immersing yourself in the must-see sights of two of northern Italy’s most stunning lakes: Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta.
Begin your adventure at Lake Maggiore, where the fairytale allure of the Borromean Islands and the grand promenade of Stresa await. Following this, ascend to the summit of Mottarone mountain at 1,489 meters, where you’ll be welcomed to a typical mountain refuge, complete with a delectable Italian dinner and breathtaking views of the Alps.
Conclude your tour by exploring Lake Orta, the smallest yet most captivating of the Italian lakes. Wander through olive groves and vineyards, passing by quaint hamlets and charming villages, in a paradise for any walker enamoured with lush nature and picturesque mountain communities.
Highlights
- Enjoy the stunning villages of Stresa, Mottarone and Orta
- Uncover the natural splendour of Lake Maggiore’s pristine waters, majestic Italian Alps and enchanting Riviera ambience
- Delve into the exquisite Italian gardens and villas after sailing to the Borromean Islands
- Spend a night in a sanctuary atop Mottarone at 1480m
- Immerse yourself in the allure of Orta village and its Sacro Monte
- Discover traditional medieval villages via walks along the lake and mountain trails
WALK OVERVIEW
TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
6 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate 
Grade 3 – Moderate
Short, steep hill sections. Walks that are longer than 12km with varied terrain. A moderate active lifestyle and some walking experience is recommended.PRICE FROM
$ 1795
per person twin/double share
SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 565
Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of a room when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.
per person
ITINERARY
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Accommodation for 5 nights with private facilities
- 5 breakfasts and 1 dinner
- Luggage transfers
- All boat and taxi transfers as described in the itinerary (days 2,3,4 and 5)
- Our comprehensive set of notes with detailed walking itineraries, integrated maps and insider tips (where to get the freshest baguettes, where to taste olive oil or wine)
- 24/7 support from our representatives on the ground
- Awe-inspiring vistas over the Alps
ACCOMMODATION & DINING
OVERVIEW
The 2 to 3-star hotels (depending on whether you choose the standard or upgraded package) and one night in a charming refuge accommodation (the same accommodation for both standard and upgraded packages) have been handpicked to reflect the character and history of the region. During this tour, you will spend each night in double occupancy rooms with private facilities. Chosen for their location, facilities and history, our accommodation in Stresa, Mottarone and Orta is used to welcoming walkers. The hosts are very knowledgeable about the region and will always be happy to chat with you about its history, food, and wine. Of course, you can always call us if you need anything during your walk.
You will be provided five daily breakfasts after each night’s stay. With the wide variety of offerings at your fingertips, you can enjoy choosing whatever takes your fancy for lunch and dinner. Lunches are available at various cafes or food stores daily. There are numerous places to get dinner each night; your hosts will happily give you a list of recommendations upon request. If you have any food allergies or intolerances, please let us know when you book so we can let your hosts know. Should you have severe food allergies, it’s always worth bringing a few of your own snacks with you.
Please note that the accommodations in Italy are not International standard at all. A 3-star hotel in Italy will often correspond to a 2-star international hotel. All B&B’s (standard accommodation) are very simple, some are more charming, with different room offerings at different prices. Most hotels (except 4-star) do NOT have air-conditioning.
-
Night 1 & 2
-
Night 1 & 2 - UPGRADED
-
Night 3
-
NIGHT 4 & 5
-
NIGHT 4 & 5 - UPGRADED
FITNESS GUIDE
It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed. Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.
The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.
DISTANCE - BELOW AVERAGE
Distance is not a major consideration in your training program. However, you should still incorporate some long walks as it will increase your cardiovascular fitness.
ELEVATION - BELOW AVERAGE
Elevation is not a major consideration regarding how you train. However, you should still incorporate some form of resistance training as it will increase your endurance.
ROCKY / UNEVEN TERRAIN
ROCKY TERRAIN
Whilst preparing for walking on rocky terrain, you must focus on the development of balance, strength, and agility. Integrate targeted strength exercises, such as lunges, squats, and step-ups, to fortify your leg muscles, with a particular emphasis on enhancing stability on uneven surfaces. Balancing exercises are essential. Undertake core strength activity, coupled with exercises such as planks and russian twists to enhance balance. As you progress, include hikes on progressively rougher terrain to acclimate to rocky conditions. Additionally, the appropriate footwear with good ankle support and tread for grip are essential. Stay mindful, watch your step, and use trekking poles for added stability.
UNEVEN TERRAIN
Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a nuanced blend of physical and mental readiness. Commence your regimen with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a foundational groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is pivotal, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups to enhance both stability and power. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement. The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritize options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.
GENERAL INFO
WALKING
This walk is graded as easy.
AVAILABILITY
March through to October.
HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY
Travelling to the Start of the walk
The walk starts in Stresa and finishes in Orta. You will need to organise your own transport to get there. The easiest option would involve flying into Milan and then training from Milan directly to Stresa. To make it easy, we have collated some useful information that will assist you in making arrangements for your travel.
By plane: There are regular flights to Milan from different countries around Europe. There are many airlines that fly these routes. Below are possible websites that provide a number of different carriers to choose from.
https://www.kayak.com/flightsÂ
Train: The train from Milan to Stresa will take around 1-2hrs and will cost around AUD$15. Please find below ways to book.
WEATHER
From March the temperature begins to rise so be prepared for warmer days if you walk in summer. Shoulder season is by far the best time as the weather is perfect for walking and the added advantage of having fewer people around in the villages and on the coast (we walk away from the populated areas on the walk so crowds are not an issue.)
See the weather information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.
INFORMATION PACK
For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.
INSURANCE
We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.
For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.
We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office. See the FAQ section for more information.
CONTACT
If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.
DEPARTURE DATES
-
DATESAVAILABILITYPRICEPER PERSONSingle OccupancyDETAILS
-
1 Mar 2025 - 31 Oct 2025AVAILABLEfrom
$1795
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$565Standard Accommodation
-
1 Mar 2025 - 31 Oct 2025AVAILABLEfrom
$1955
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$655Upgraded Accommodation
-
1 Mar 2026 - 31 Oct 2026AVAILABLEfrom
$1865
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$595Standard Accommodation
-
1 Mar 2026 - 31 Oct 2026AVAILABLEfrom
$2055
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$685Upgraded Accommodation
SIMILAR TRIPS
There are no any similar trips available.
Overview
SELF GUIDED
6 DAYS
Moderate
Book now
OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW
Set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Alps, the Italian lakes beckon with their enchanting and romantic vistas, waiting to be explored on foot. Over time, this picturesque region has blossomed into a haven of splendid villas and botanical marvels, thanks to its delightful climate. Embark on an unforgettable walking journey through the most scenic trails, immersing yourself in the must-see sights of two of northern Italy’s most stunning lakes: Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta.
Begin your adventure at Lake Maggiore, where the fairytale allure of the Borromean Islands and the grand promenade of Stresa await. Following this, ascend to the summit of Mottarone mountain at 1,489 meters, where you’ll be welcomed to a typical mountain refuge, complete with a delectable Italian dinner and breathtaking views of the Alps.
Conclude your tour by exploring Lake Orta, the smallest yet most captivating of the Italian lakes. Wander through olive groves and vineyards, passing by quaint hamlets and charming villages, in a paradise for any walker enamoured with lush nature and picturesque mountain communities.
Highlights
- Enjoy the stunning villages of Stresa, Mottarone and Orta
- Uncover the natural splendour of Lake Maggiore’s pristine waters, majestic Italian Alps and enchanting Riviera ambience
- Delve into the exquisite Italian gardens and villas after sailing to the Borromean Islands
- Spend a night in a sanctuary atop Mottarone at 1480m
- Immerse yourself in the allure of Orta village and its Sacro Monte
- Discover traditional medieval villages via walks along the lake and mountain trails
WALK OVERVIEW
TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
6 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate
Grade 3 – Moderate
Short, steep hill sections. Walks that are longer than 12km with varied terrain. A moderate active lifestyle and some walking experience is recommended.PRICE FROM
$ 1795
per person twin/double share
SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 565
Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of the accommodation when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.
per person
Itinerary
ITINERARY
What’s Included
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Accommodation for 5 nights with private facilities
- 5 breakfasts and 1 dinner
- Luggage transfers
- All boat and taxi transfers as described in the itinerary (days 2,3,4 and 5)
- Our comprehensive set of notes with detailed walking itineraries, integrated maps and insider tips (where to get the freshest baguettes, where to taste olive oil or wine)
- 24/7 support from our representatives on the ground
- Awe-inspiring vistas over the Alps
Accommodation & Dining
ACCOMMODATION & DINING
OVERVIEW
The 2 to 3-star hotels (depending on whether you choose the standard or upgraded package) and one night in a charming refuge accommodation (the same accommodation for both standard and upgraded packages) have been handpicked to reflect the character and history of the region. During this tour, you will spend each night in double occupancy rooms with private facilities. Chosen for their location, facilities and history, our accommodation in Stresa, Mottarone and Orta is used to welcoming walkers. The hosts are very knowledgeable about the region and will always be happy to chat with you about its history, food, and wine. Of course, you can always call us if you need anything during your walk.
You will be provided five daily breakfasts after each night’s stay. With the wide variety of offerings at your fingertips, you can enjoy choosing whatever takes your fancy for lunch and dinner. Lunches are available at various cafes or food stores daily. There are numerous places to get dinner each night; your hosts will happily give you a list of recommendations upon request. If you have any food allergies or intolerances, please let us know when you book so we can let your hosts know. Should you have severe food allergies, it’s always worth bringing a few of your own snacks with you.
Please note that the accommodations in Italy are not International standard at all. A 3-star hotel in Italy will often correspond to a 2-star international hotel. All B&B’s (standard accommodation) are very simple, some are more charming, with different room offerings at different prices. Most hotels (except 4-star) do NOT have air-conditioning.
-
Night 1 & 2
-
Night 1 & 2 - UPGRADED
-
Night 3
-
NIGHT 4 & 5
-
NIGHT 4 & 5 - UPGRADED
Fitness Guide
FITNESS GUIDE
It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed. Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.
The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.
DISTANCE - BELOW AVERAGE
Distance is not a major consideration in your training program. However, you should still incorporate some long walks as it will increase your cardiovascular fitness.
ELEVATION - BELOW AVERAGE
Elevation is not a major consideration regarding how you train. However, you should still incorporate some form of resistance training as it will increase your endurance.
ROCKY / UNEVEN TERRAIN
ROCKY TERRAIN
Whilst preparing for walking on rocky terrain, you must focus on the development of balance, strength, and agility. Integrate targeted strength exercises, such as lunges, squats, and step-ups, to fortify your leg muscles, with a particular emphasis on enhancing stability on uneven surfaces. Balancing exercises are essential. Undertake core strength activity, coupled with exercises such as planks and russian twists to enhance balance. As you progress, include hikes on progressively rougher terrain to acclimate to rocky conditions. Additionally, the appropriate footwear with good ankle support and tread for grip are essential. Stay mindful, watch your step, and use trekking poles for added stability.
UNEVEN TERRAIN
Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a nuanced blend of physical and mental readiness. Commence your regimen with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a foundational groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is pivotal, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups to enhance both stability and power. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement. The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritize options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.
General Info
GENERAL INFO
WALKING
This walk is graded as easy.
AVAILABILITY
March through to October.
HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY
Travelling to the Start of the walk
The walk starts in Stresa and finishes in Orta. You will need to organise your own transport to get there. The easiest option would involve flying into Milan and then training from Milan directly to Stresa. To make it easy, we have collated some useful information that will assist you in making arrangements for your travel.
By plane: There are regular flights to Milan from different countries around Europe. There are many airlines that fly these routes. Below are possible websites that provide a number of different carriers to choose from.
https://www.kayak.com/flightsÂ
Train: The train from Milan to Stresa will take around 1-2hrs and will cost around AUD$15. Please find below ways to book.
WEATHER
From March the temperature begins to rise so be prepared for warmer days if you walk in summer. Shoulder season is by far the best time as the weather is perfect for walking and the added advantage of having fewer people around in the villages and on the coast (we walk away from the populated areas on the walk so crowds are not an issue.)
See the weather information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.
INFORMATION PACK
For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.
INSURANCE
We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.
For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.
We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office. See the FAQ section for more information.
CONTACT
If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.
Departure Dates
DEPARTURE DATES
-
DATESAVAILABILITYPRICEPER PERSONSingle OccupancyDETAILS
-
1 Mar 2025 - 31 Oct 2025AVAILABLEfrom
$1795
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$565 -
1 Mar 2025 - 31 Oct 2025AVAILABLEfrom
$1955
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$655 -
1 Mar 2026 - 31 Oct 2026AVAILABLEfrom
$1865
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$595 -
1 Mar 2026 - 31 Oct 2026AVAILABLEfrom
$2055
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$685
Similar Trips
SIMILAR TRIPS
There are no any similar trips available.blog
ENQUIRE NOW
If you’re looking for further information on any of our walking holidays please fill out the enquiry form and we’ll be in touch.