Lago d'Orta (Lake Orta): a secret and enchanted corner of Piedmont

In Piedmont, there is a lake that is often overshadowed by the grandeur of Lake Maggiore. Hidden among the Piedmontese hills, in fact, is Lake Orta, one of the lesser-known gems of Northern Italy. Here there is an intimate silence, a body of water that offers a completely different experience compared to the more famous ones.

The true heart of Lake Orta is Orta San Giulio, which is a medieval village consisting of cobbled streets, small squares overlooking the water, and its port, where boats depart for the mysterious Island of San Giulio. An ancient basilica and a cloistered monastery stand here, and the silence is almost sacred.

It is the perfect place for those seeking spirituality and mystery. And for those who don't tire easily, it is possible to climb the Sacro Monte d'Orta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, via a path immersed in the deepest nature. The view from there is spectacular. The effort made to climb the trail is completely repaid by the breathtaking panorama that opens up over the entire lake. The view is bright and green in summer, and ethereal and rarefied in winter.

In summer, in particular, when the heat is a bit more intense, taking a refreshing swim is ideal. You can also glide over the water in a kayak, but if you don't like that idea, you can also explore the trails in the surrounding woods.

This is the perfect place for those seeking authenticity and intimacy. There are no crowds, there is no modernity, only pure and discreet beauty. Even the food and wine, compared to Lake Maggiore, where you can find something a bit more sophisticated, is simple, with typical dishes served everywhere. Lake Orta, therefore, knows how to amaze.

cover photo credits AleMasche72