Orta San Giulio: a romantic jewel on Lake Orta

In the heart of Piedmont, nestled by the calm and gentle waters of Lake Orta, lies the village of Orta San Giulio, one of the most fascinating in Italy. Its intimate and timeless atmosphere has earned it a place among the “Most Beautiful Villages of Italy,” and visiting it means immersing yourself in a world of art, spirituality, and breathtaking views.

Lake Orta offers visitors a sense of peace and serenity that flows through the streets of the village, where calm reigns supreme. Around the island, it is also possible to follow the Path of Silence, a meditative walk that circles the island. In the surrounding area, there are also many panoramic trails to explore, either in company or alone, letting yourself be carried away by silence into deep reflections, while the gentle sound of the waves soothes the mind.

What to see in Orta San Giulio

The historic center of Orta San Giulio, entirely pedestrian, unfolds through narrow cobbled alleys, flowered balconies, and elegant noble palaces. The heart of the village is Piazza Motta, an elegant terrace overlooking the lake, offering a spectacular view of the Island of San Giulio. From here, boats depart for the island, dominated by the Romanesque Basilica and the Benedictine Monastery Mater Ecclesiae.

While strolling through the village, highlights include the Palazzo della Comunità della Riviera, with its 16th-century frescoes, and the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, built in the 15th century and reached by climbing a picturesque staircase.

On the heights above the village rises the Sacro Monte di Orta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a complex of twenty chapels immersed in greenery, illustrating the life of Saint Francis of Assisi through baroque statues and frescoes.

Traditions and events

Orta San Giulio has a vibrant cultural and spiritual tradition. On January 31, the great Feast of Saint Julius is celebrated, a historic tradition for the locals and a fascinating event for visitors, featuring a suggestive boat procession to the island.

Throughout the year, Orta San Giulio hosts numerous events, fairs, and festivals. In summer, the village comes alive with music-themed events, while in winter it is adorned with Christmas colors, turning into a living postcard.

Exploring around Orta San Giulio

Orta San Giulio is also an excellent starting point for adventures and magical places to discover. A visit to Omegna, birthplace of Gianni Rodari, is a must, as well as to nearby Pella, located on the opposite side of the lake. Orta San Giulio is also a perfect base for exploring Lake Maggiore, with its world-famous Borromean Islands.

Visiting Orta San Giulio will be an experience that soothes the soul and heals the heart. If you are looking for a relaxing yet lively place to explore, whether alone or in company, Orta San Giulio is ready to welcome you. All that’s left is to pack your bags and let yourself be enchanted by the beauty of this village.

Cover photo credits: elitravo