Verbano-Cusio-Ossola

Verbano-Cusio-Ossola: a corner of paradise where nature, history and culture intertwine in a breathtaking embrace. Yet, not everyone knows that this region is also a hidden treasure, far from the most popular tourist routes , capable of surprising even the most experienced traveller. Imagine walking among the enchanting islands of Lake Maggiore, getting lost in the paths of the Lepontine Alps, tasting authentic dishes that tell the story of the local culinary tradition and exploring picturesque villages where time seems to have stopped.

In this article, we will take you on an inspiring journey through ten extraordinary experiences that Verbano-Cusio-Ossola has to offer. You will discover the wonders of the islands of Lake Maggiore, true jewels set in the crystal clear waters, where each island tells a unique story. We will then take you on unforgettable adventures in the Lepontine Alps, where excursions will give you breathtaking views and direct contact with nature. There will be a dive into the past with the discovery of the ancient history of Domodossola, a city that has its roots in centuries of culture and tradition. Finally, we will invite you on a food and wine tour that will delight your palate and introduce you to the authentic tastes of this land.

Have you ever wondered how a place so rich in history and beauty can still remain little known? The answer lies in its lesser-known villages, in the alpine refuges where you can spend unforgettable nights and in the traditional festivals that enliven the squares in the liveliest moments of the year. These experiences are just a taste of what we will explore together.

Prepare to be inspired and discover a world where every corner tells a story, where sustainability is intertwined with tradition, and where art and culture emerge in unexpected forms. Without further ado, let’s immerse ourselves in this adventure in the heart of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, where every step is an invitation to explore and experience beauty in all its facets.

Explore the enchanting islands of Lake Maggiore

An unforgettable experience

I remember the moment the boat left the Stresa pier, and the scent of lemon and rosemary flowers from the islands filled the air. The Borromean Islands, with their lush gardens and charming villas, seemed like a daydream. Isola Bella, in particular, with its baroque palace and terraced gardens, offers an experience that enchants all the senses.

Practical information

Boats to the islands depart frequently from Stresa and Verbania; a return ticket costs around €15 and the journey takes around 30 minutes. For further details, consult the Navigazione Lago Maggiore website.

An insider tip

If you want to avoid the crowds, visit Fishermen’s Island early in the morning: it’s the ideal time to enjoy a coffee in one of the taverns overlooking the lake, while the sun slowly rises.

Cultural impact

These islands are not just a natural jewel; their history is intrinsically linked to the Italian nobility, who transformed these places into artistic and cultural residences.

Sustainability

Many restaurants on the island use local ingredients and sustainable practices, inviting visitors to contribute to responsible tourism.

Immersion in the details

Imagine the sound of the waves gently crashing against the rocks, the birds singing and the scent of the flowers. Every corner tells a story.

A unique activity

Try visiting the botanical garden of Isola Madre, where the exotic flora will leave you speechless.

Final reflection

In a world where everything seems fast, the islands of Lake Maggiore invite you to slow down. What is your favorite corner of this paradise?

Adventure in the Lepontine Alps: unforgettable excursions

An excursion that remains in the heart

I still remember the feeling of freedom while walking along the paths of the Lepontine Alps, surrounded by breathtaking views. The scent of the fresh mountain air and the sound of the streams flowing next to me created a magical atmosphere. Each step was an invitation to discover a new corner of uncontaminated nature, with snow-capped peaks standing out against an intense blue sky.

Practical information

The Lepontine Alps offer a variety of itineraries for hikers of all levels. To reach the starting locations, such as Macugnaga or Formazza, you can use public transport from Domodossola, with regular connections. Prices for guided excursions vary, but you can find tours starting from 30 euros. For further details, consult the websites of local guides, such as Valli Ossolane.

An insider tip

A little-known tip is to explore the path that leads to Rifugio della Fola, where you can taste typical dishes prepared with local ingredients, a real hidden treasure.

Culture and community

The Lepontine Alps are not just a paradise for hikers; they also represent an important cultural heritage for the local people, who have always lived in symbiosis with these mountains. The tradition of “shepherding” is still alive, helping to keep the local culture alive.

Sustainability in the mountains

Many guides promote sustainable tourism practices, such as respecting the paths and adopting eco-friendly behaviours. You can help by bringing reusable water bottles and waste home with you.

Unique experience

Don’t miss the opportunity to participate in an evening of stargazing, away from light pollution, for an unforgettable experience.

In one sentence, a local inhabitant told me: “Here, every path tells a story.” We invite you to discover what story awaits you in the Lepontine Alps. And you, which adventure would you choose?

Discover the ancient history of Domodossola

A journey into the past

I still remember my first approach to Domodossola, a charming town that seems to have come out of a history book. As I strolled through the cobbled streets, the scent of fresh flowers and the sound of bells transported me back in time, to a time when the city was an important crossroads for traders. The sight of the Duomo di San Bartolomeo, with its intricate baroque decorations, made me feel part of something bigger.

Practical information

To visit Domodossola, the train is a convenient choice, with frequent connections from Milan (about 1 hour and 30 minutes). Entrances to the main historical sites are generally free or low cost, such as the Covered Market which is held every Saturday.

An insider tip

If you want to discover a hidden corner, don’t miss the Chapel of San Francesco, a small jewel that tourists often miss. Here you can admire frescoes that tell stories of daily life in the Middle Ages.

Cultural impact and sustainable practices

Domodossola is an example of how tradition and modernity can coexist. Residents are proud of their roots and often organize events to preserve local heritage. Supporting local shops and restaurants is an easy way to give back to the community.

A reflection

Walking through the streets of Domodossola, I realized how important it is to immerse yourself in the history and culture of a place. When was the last time you visited a place that made you feel this way?

Authentic tastes: food and wine tour in Verbano-Cusio-Ossola

An unforgettable experience

I still remember the enveloping scent of Ossolano cheese that mixed with the aroma of fresh porcini mushrooms during a local market in Domodossola. Each bite of a potato pie, with its golden crust, told a story of centuries-old traditions and passion for cooking. This is just a taste of what Verbano-Cusio-Ossola has to offer visitors looking for an authentic gastronomic experience.

Practical information

To explore local flavors, I recommend taking a food and wine tour with “Ossola Gourmet”, which organizes excursions to vineyards and farms. Tours depart from Domodossola and cost between 50 and 100 euros per person, depending on the activities included. For reservations and details, visit their official website.

Insider tip

A well-kept secret is the Villadossola market, where local producers sell their fresh produce every Thursday. Here you can savor delights such as castagnaccio and discover recipes handed down for generations.

Cultural impact

Gastronomy in Verbano-Cusio-Ossola is not just food; it is a deep bond between people and the territory. Traditional dishes reflect the history and natural resources of the region, helping to keep the local culture alive.

Sustainable tourism

Choosing local products also means supporting sustainable agriculture. Many restaurants, such as Ristorante Il Chiosco in Stresa, are committed to using 0 km ingredients.

A memorable activity

For a unique experience, take a cooking class at a local’s home. You will be able to learn to prepare typical dishes and enjoy them in a family atmosphere.

Final reflection

The cuisine of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola is a journey through flavors and traditions. What is the dish that fascinates you most and that you would like to discover?

A journey through time in Santa Maria Maggiore

An unforgettable experience

I vividly remember the moment I set foot in Santa Maria Maggiore. The scent of the wood of the stone houses mixed with the fresh mountain air, while the sound of the water flowing in the streams created an enveloping melody. This enchanting village, located in the heart of Val Vigezzo, is a real journey through time. Its narrow cobbled streets and small squares overlooking the river made me feel as if I had stepped back centuries.

Practical information

To reach Santa Maria Maggiore, you can take the train from Domodossola, with daily frequencies. The journey takes about 30 minutes and offers breathtaking views. Once there, don’t miss a visit to the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, which houses extraordinary works of art. Entrances are generally free, although some temporary exhibitions may require a ticket costing a few euros.

An insider tip

A trick that few people know is to visit the Landscape Museum, where you can discover local art and culture through interactive displays. Be sure to ask the curators about the traditional making of cimase, the typical wooden sculptures that adorn houses.

The cultural impact

Santa Maria Maggiore is not only a place of beauty, but a center of living culture, where artisan traditions are passed on from generation to generation. The community is proud of its roots and the impact that sustainable tourism has on the conservation of local heritage.

Final reflection

While walking through the streets, I met a local elder who told me: “Every stone tells a story”. I invite you to reflect on what story Santa Maria Maggiore could tell and to be inspired by this corner of Piedmont, where time seems to have stopped.

Sustainability in the mountains: local ecotourism practices

A green soul among the peaks

I still remember the feeling of peace and connection with nature as I walked along a path that wound through the woods of the Lepontine Alps. The scent of fresh pine and birdsong accompanied every step, and I felt part of a fragile and precious ecosystem. This is the heart of sustainability in Verbano-Cusio-Ossola: a territory that invites visitors to respect and protect the environment.

Practical information

To explore local ecotourism practices, I recommend visiting the Val Grande National Park, easily reachable from Verbania by public transport (bus line to the lake, about 40 minutes). The paths are well signposted, and entry to the park is free. Make sure you bring with you a packed lunch prepared with local products, available in the Domodossola markets.

An insider tip

A little-known experience is the “Sentiero dei Sogni”, an immersive path that combines art and nature. Here, local artists have installed works that integrate seamlessly into the landscape, creating a unique visual dialogue with the environment.

The local impact

These ecotourism practices not only promote nature conservation, but also support local communities, creating job opportunities and enhancing local culture. As one resident says, “The mountain is our home, and we want everyone to respect it as such.”

A new perspective

Remember, sustainability is not just a trend, but a way of life. The next time you explore the Alps, ask yourself how you can help preserve the beauty of this area. If not now, when?

Hidden art and culture: the Sacro Monte of Ghiffa

A personal experience

I still remember the scent of incense and the delicate sound of the bells as I climbed towards the Sacro Monte di Ghiffa, a place that seems suspended in time. Every step along the paved path brought me closer to an ancient history, surrounded by lush vegetation and a breathtaking view of Lake Maggiore.

Practical information

The Sacro Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is easily reachable by public transport: just take the train to Verbania and then a bus to Ghiffa. Entrance is free, but we recommend making a donation to support the maintenance of the site. Visits are recommended during the week to avoid the crowds, and in the months of May and September, when the weather is perfect for walking.

An insider tip

A little-known trick is to visit Sacro Monte at dawn. The morning light makes the view of the lake even more magical and the colors of the chapels awaken into a living work of art.

Cultural impact

This place is not just a religious site, but a meeting center for the local community, which celebrates centuries-old traditions here. The tranquility of the Sacro Monte offers reflections on the value of spirituality and connection with nature.

Sustainability and community

Visitors can contribute by participating in local craft workshops, supporting the circular economy and traditional art.

An unforgettable activity

Don’t miss an evening walk among the illuminated chapels, an experience that will leave you speechless.

Final reflection

The Sacro Monte of Ghiffa is not just a place to visit, it is an invitation to discover the hidden beauty of Piedmont. Have you ever wondered what story is hidden behind every stone?

Unique experiences: sleeping in an alpine refuge

A night among the stars

Imagine waking up surrounded by the majestic Lepontine Alps, with the soothing rhythm of a stream flowing nearby. My first night in an alpine refuge, at 1,800 meters above sea level, was an experience that changed my perception of adventure. The scent of fresh wood and the echoes of laughter from fellow hikers created a magical atmosphere, while the sky was tinged with shades of blue and gold at sunset.

Practical information

Refuges such as the Rifugio Città di Busto offer welcoming dormitories and typical local cuisine meals. Prices fluctuate between 30 and 60 euros per person, depending on the season. To get there, you can take a bus from Domodossola to the starting point of the excursion, which usually takes about 2-3 hours.

An insider tip

Bring a light blanket with you: nights in the mountains can be cool, even in summer! And don’t forget a good camera; the sunrises here are postcard-perfect.

Cultural impact

These refuges are not just resting places, but represent the tradition of mountain hospitality, a deep bond between the local community and travellers. Refugees often share life stories that reflect Alpine resilience and culture.

Sustainability

Many refuges promote eco-friendly practices, such as the use of solar panels and zero-mile products. Choosing to stay in an Alpine refuge means contributing to a form of tourism that respects the environment.

An unforgettable experience

I recommend you take part in an evening of storytelling around the fire, where the inhabitants tell local legends. It’s a unique way to connect with the culture of the area.

Final reflection

The next time you think of a refuge, don’t just consider it a place to sleep, but an opportunity to immerse yourself in mountain life. Are you ready to discover the authentic side of the Alps?

Lesser known villages: wonders of Vogogna and Cannero

An authentic experience

I still remember the feeling of wonder as I explored the cobbled alleys of Vogogna, a corner of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola that seems to have stopped in time. Every corner tells stories of a rich past, visible in the architectural details of the stone houses and in the remains of the castle. Cannero Riviera, with its crystal clear waters and breathtaking views of the mountains, is another lesser-known jewel, perfect for those seeking tranquility.

Practical information

To visit Vogogna, you can take the train from Domodossola (about 20 minutes) and then a short walk. Don’t forget to visit the Visconti Castle, open every day from 10:00 to 18:00, with an entrance fee of 5 euros. In Cannero, the beaches are freely accessible and the atmosphere is pure magic, especially at sunset.

An insider tip

A little-known tip: visit Vogogna during the week, when tourists are less frequent; you will feel like a local, welcoming the warmth of the people and their hospitality.

Cultural impact

These villages preserve centuries-old traditions, and the local community is deeply linked to its history. Life here is not hectic; it is an invitation to slow down and savor every moment.

Sustainability

Visit local markets and buy artisanal products to support the local economy. This way, you will not only bring home a piece of history, but you will also help preserve these wonders.

An unmissable activity

Try taking part in a ceramic workshop in Vogogna: an experience that combines creativity and tradition.

Final reflection

What do these villages teach us about the value of slowness and authenticity? Next time you plan a visit, consider going off the beaten path and discovering the hidden beauty of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola.

Local events: traditional festivals and authentic festivals

A living experience in the heart of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola

I remember the first time I attended the Festa della Madonna del Sasso in Orselina, where the scent of risottos and local specialties mixed with the fresh air of the lake. The inhabitants, dressed in traditional clothes, danced and sang, creating an atmosphere of contagious joy. This is just one of the many festivals that animate Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, an area where traditions are intertwined with daily life.

Practical information

The most famous festivals, such as the Fish Festival in Cannobio, are typically held in the summer months. To discover the calendar of events, you can consult the official tourism website of the province Verbano-Cusio-Ossola. Prices vary: to participate in the dinners and tastings, expect to spend around 15-30 euros per person.

An insider tip

Don’t miss the small village festivals, such as the Mushroom Festival in Macugnaga, often overlooked by tourists. Here, the community comes together to celebrate local products in an intimate and welcoming atmosphere.

Cultural impact

These celebrations are not just events: they are a way to keep traditions alive and strengthen the bond between people and their territory. The history of the area is rich in folklore, and participating in these festivals is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Sustainable practices

Many local events promote the use of zero-mile products, encouraging visitors to support the local economy and respect the environment.

An experience not to be missed

I recommend you take part in a cooking workshop during a festival, where you can learn to prepare typical dishes with the residents.

A common misconception

It is often thought that festivals are just for tourists, but in reality they are real celebrations for locals: an opportunity to connect with the community.

Seasonality

Festivities vary from season to season, with winter events such as the Christmas Market offering a magical and warm atmosphere.

Quote from a local

“Parties are our way of sharing what we love: food, music and friendship.” - Marco, resident of Domodossola.

Final reflection

What will be your favorite party in Verbano-Cusio-Ossola? Let yourself be surprised by the richness of local traditions and consider living an authentic experience that goes beyond conventional tourism.