Italy has more than its fair share of beautiful places and the lakes that nestle in the foothills of the Italian Alps are one of its finest assets. The Lakes of Lombardy and in particular Lake Maggiore are very special. The early mist rising off the lake, church bells resonating off the water, flower-filled gardens reflected in the still, deep waters and numerous craft going about their business, criss-crossing the lake. The images stay with you forever.
A little more sedate than some of the other Italian lakes, Lake Maggiore harbours a distinct belle-époque air with regal promenades and grand villas lining its shores. Its hinterland is intriguingly wild and the steep inclines of Piedmont’s lower Alps and gentle Mediterranean climate make for lush vegetation, and are the reason why so many rare and exotic plants thrive here. Our elegant and comfortable hotel, the Villa e Palazzo Aminta is scenically positioned by the shores of the lake and when you can stir yourself from this idyllic setting there is a wealth of wonderful things to see and do and we have devised an itinerary which includes a perfect combination of included tours and ample time at leisure. Highlights of our stay will include visits to wonderful gardens such as Villa Taranto in Pallanza which features over 3,000 species of plant, a tour by boat to see the Borromean Islands with their wonderful palaces and botanic gardens and a full day exploring the lakes, towns and valleys by rail and boat.
We have also allowed for opportunities to dine independently so that you may join the local restaurant-goers in the wonderful waterfront restaurants nearby. If you enjoy touring at a gentle pace, sampling local foods and wines, walking amidst beautiful surroundings and appreciating the exotic plants and flowers on display in the company of just a few fellow travellers then this tour will surely appeal.
Villa e Palazzo Aminta
Dating back to the early 20th century, the grand Villa e Palazzo Aminta is one of Lake Maggiore’s finest hotels. Initially built as the personal residence of the Admiral of the Royal Navy Francesco Capece, the hotel still bears the name of his dear, beloved wife Aminta and is now owned by the Zanetta family. The property has very much retained the atmosphere of a private house and the owners take pride in the warm hospitality and service provided to their guests from the moment you step into the opulent lobby with its Murano glittering chandeliers, Venetian flooring and marble columns. With its superior position on the lakefront, this sumptuous five-star property provides the perfect base for our exploration of this magical region of Italy.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Lake Maggiore, Italy.
Fly by scheduled flight to Milan. On arrival transfer to the Villa e Palazzo Aminta. After checking in enjoy free time before we meet for a welcome drink and dinner in the hotel this evening. (D)
Day 2 Borromean Islands.
This morning we will take a local boat from our hotel for a panoramic ride on the lake where we will view Isola Madre, the largest island on Lake Maggiore. The island is private, belonging to the Borromeo family and the mansion that was built at the end of the 16th century is considered the first of the villas ever built on the lake. The importance of the island comes from the botanical garden where, from the beginning of the 19th century, local and exotic plants have been cultivated. Continue to Isola Bella where we enjoy a guided visit of Palazzo Borromeo, the Baroque mansion built from the 17th century by the noble family feudatories of Lake Maggiore and surrounded by wonderful gardens. After the visit we have free time for a walk on the island before we make Isola Bella Villa Taranto Isola Bella our way to the small, charming Isola dei Pescatori where the small boats and fishing nets denote the main activity of its inhabitants. Enjoy lunch in one of the local restaurants before returning to our hotel by private boat. The remainder of the afternoon and evening is free to relax in the hotel or explore the local town independently. (B, L)
Day 3 Lago D’Orta.
After breakfast in the hotel we drive to Lago D’Orta. The small and picturesque lake is surrounded by mountains and we will take a boat to the island of San Giulio which lies in the centre. On our guided tour we will visit the ancient Basilica, which dates back to the 4th century and was rebuilt in the 11th century, then decorated with Renaissance and Baroque frescoes. The remains of Saint Julius, evangelizer of the region, are kept in the crypt. Walk along the only lane to see the Benedictine cloister before boarding the boat back to the enchanting village of Orta. The lack of cars together with the granite portals, the wrought iron gates, the little lanes and the inside yards gives it a timeless atmosphere. Later, transfer by boat to Bagnera and continue to a local agriturismo for a lunch of local specialities, sourced directly from the farm, accompanied by local wines. Return to the hotel this afternoon for some time at leisure. (B, L)
Day 4 Rocca d’Angera.
Drive this morning to the magnificent Rocca d’Angera located on a rocky spur on the southern shores of the lake. Owned by the Borromeo family since 1449 the Rocca consists of five different buildings, the Torre Castellana, Ala Scaligera, Ala Viscontea, Torre di Giovanni Visconti and the Ala dei Borromeo which were constructed at various times between the 11th and 15th century. Now merged to create one historic building, we can explore the historical halls and rooms including the beautiful ‘Hall of Justice’ with its 12th century frescoes and visit the museum of dolls and toys. Outside we see the restoration of the Medieval gardens which blends medicinal herbs with ornamental plants. Return to the hotel and enjoy a free afternoon before meeting for dinner. (B, D)
Day 5 Villa Taranto.
This morning we visit the famous Villa Taranto in Pallanza whose gardens were established between 1931 and 1940 by Scotsman Neil McEacharn. Today the gardens contain nearly 20,000 plant varieties representing more than 3,000 species, set among seven kilometres of paths. Walking along the avenues we will admire the most curious and important species, according to the season. Varieties include azalea, rhododendron, 300 types of dahlias as well as the greenhouses of Victoria amazonica, a small herbarium and the founder’s mausoleum. We will take lunch in Pallanza and have some time to explore before returning to the hotel this afternoon. (B, L)
Day 6 Ferrovia Vigezzina.
After breakfast we will embark on a full day tour exploring the lake and the valleys and towns on its shores. We drive to Domodossola which lies at the bottom of the Toce River at the mouth of seven alpine valleys. Explore the historic centre and romantic squares before we embark the Ferrovia Vigezzina train. Our journey takes us through the Ossola and Vigezzo valleys where we see wild scenery, punctuated by clear streams, vineyards, chestnut woodlands and villages perched on steep slopes. We disembark in the pretty village of Santa Maria Maggiore, the train lines highest point at 831 metres, where after exploring we will take lunch. Later we will drive to Baveno where we embark our private boat to cruise on Lake Maggiore. See the fascinating shoreline dotted with picturesque villas before we sail past the Eremo di Santa Caterina del Sasso, a 14th century monastery perched on the edge of the lake. Return to the hotel and have some free time before we meet for dinner tonight. (B, L, D)
Day 7 Ricetto di Ghemme.
Leaving the lake behind we travel to the Rovellotti cellars in Ghemme. The town lies in a fertile plain of the Novara Province, at the foot of the hills that rise up towards the nearby Pre-Alps, between Piedmont and Lombardy. It boasts a wide variety of landscapes: rice fields, cultivated fields, castles and unspoilt natural beauty. We will explore the Ricetto, an impressive walled rectangular-shaped Medieval citadel, originally a stronghold used for the safe retreat for the local population in case of siege. Visit the cellars, situated in a centuries-old two storey structure made of bricks and river stone, grouped around lovely little courtyards. Here we will enjoy a tasting of their wines served with local delicacies. Return to the hotel this afternoon and enjoy free time before we take our farewell dinner in the hotel this evening. (B, D)
Day 8 Lake Maggiore to London.
Check out after breakfast and transfer to Milan for our scheduled flight to London. (B)
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 7 to 14 May 2025 • 14 to 21 May 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Superior Garden View | £3795 | |
| Deluxe Lake Side View | £4095 | |
| Deluxe Front Lake View | £4395 | |
| Superior Garden View Sole Occupancy | £4995 | |
| Deluxe Lake Side View Sole Occupancy | £5395 | |
| 10 to 17 September 2025 • 24 September to 1 October 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Superior Garden View | £3995 | |
| Deluxe Lake Side View | £4295 | |
| Deluxe Front Lake View | £4595 | |
| Superior Garden View Sole Occupancy | £5195 | |
| Deluxe Lake Side View Sole Occupancy | £5595 | |
Tour Reference Code: LAVPA130924
Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel • Seven nights hotel accommodation at the Villa e Palazzo Aminta • Meals as indicated (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner) • Drinks with lunch & dinner • Excursions as described • Noble Caledonia Tour Manager • Gratuities • Transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Group Size: We are restricting the group size to no more than 25 participants.
Villa e Palazzo Aminta
Dating back to the early 20th century, the grand Villa e Palazzo Aminta is one of Lake Maggiore’s finest hotels. Initially built as the personal residence of the Admiral of the Royal Navy Francesco Capece, the hotel still bears the name of his dear, beloved wife Aminta and is now owned by the Zanetta family. The property has very much retained the atmosphere of a private house and the owners take pride in the warm hospitality and service provided to their guests from the moment you step into the opulent lobby with its Murano glittering chandeliers, Venetian flooring and marble columns. With its superior position on the lakefront, this sumptuous five-star property provides the perfect base for our exploration of this magical region of Italy.
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Hotel Directory
Hotel Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the hotel or click on the adjacent Directory to download.
The Villa e Palazzo Aminta is located on the shores of Italy’s Lake Maggiore. Dating back to the early 20th century, the property has very much retained the atmosphere of a private house. The owners take pride in the warm hospitality and service provided from the moment you step into the opulent lobby with its Murano glittering chandeliers, Venetian flooring and marble columns.
This elegant hotel has 70 rooms all of which offer a high level of comfort and have private balconies or terraces, with garden or lake views. Part of the Leading Hotels of the World group, Villa e Palazzo Aminta also has wonderful facilities including a bar, sun terrace and two restaurants. I Mori has lake views and serves classic Italian dishes and Le Isole is the elegant main restaurant which offers al fresco dining when the weather permits. There is also a private beach area, an attractive on-site spa and fitness centre.
However, the hotel’s greatest asset is its position. Situated in the most beautiful lake area, it is ideally placed for day excursions to some of the loveliest islands, gardens and villas of Piedmont. The hotel is located a five minute drive from the centre of Stresa and a complimentary shuttle bus is offered at regular times throughout the day. Alternatively, you can take a 30 minute walk (please note that the walk does require walking on the main road for around 10 minutes before accessing the lakeside).
ADAPTORS
A limited number of adaptors can be obtained from Reception, located on the ground floor of the hotel. These should be returned to Reception at the end of your stay.ADDRESS
Via Sempione Nord, 123 28838 Stresa (VB) Italy.AIR-CONDITIONING
Air-conditioning is available in all rooms and public areas of the hotel.BEDDING, BLANKETS & PILLOWS
The Housekeeper will be pleased to provide extra pillows, blankets, towels and sheets upon request. Please advise Noble Caledonia in advance if you require non-feathered bedding.COMMUNICATIONS
If you wish to contact the hotel please call +39 0323 933818. This is an Italian number so calls are charged at an international rate. There is a phone in your room, which has access to an outside line. You can make room-to-room calls free of charge (see section on Telephone Calls). You can contact the hotel by email at info@villa-aminta.it . There is a Business Centre at Reception where a computer and printer may be used free of charge.DAILY PROGRAMME
Your Tour Manager will confirm the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities the previous evening.DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free or low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department at Noble Caledonia. We regret that not all dietary requests can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require we recommend that you take some with you although the hotel will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once you have checked in to the hotel, please speak to the Chef to reconfirm your requirements.DINING & DRINKING
Breakfast and dinner will be served in the Le Isole Restaurant. Mealtimes will be advised in the Daily Programme to fit in with the excursion arrangements each day. The bar will be open each evening before and after dinner, featuring a wide variety of local and international drinks.DOCTOR
Please contact Reception should you require a doctor.EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
In the unlikely event that an emergency should occur during your stay, we ask that you remain calm and follow the instructions of the staff. We request that as soon as you enter your room, you carefully read the safety instructions fixed on the inside of the room door. Guests with disabilities, including impaired sight or hearing should advise reception on arrival, so that special attention can be given in the event of an emergency.END OF STAY QUESTIONNAIRE
We are always looking for ways to improve our holidays and the services provided and in order to do this we welcome feedback from our guests. Your comments are important to us therefore we request that you complete the questionnaire that will be provided to you by your Tour Manager.GRATUITIES
Gratuities have been included in your holiday price.LAUNDRY SERVICE
A laundry and dry cleaning service is available in the hotel. Laundry bags and a price list can be found in the wardrobe in your hotel room. Please fill in the laundry list and leave it together with the bag of items to be laundered on your bed to be collected.LIFT
There is a lift in the main Villa Aminta which services all floors.LOST PROPERTY
Before you check out, please check your hotel room to ensure you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia or Villa e Palazzo Aminta. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection and to advise of any associated costs.ROOM ACCOUNT
All guests will have their own “room account” once credit card details have been given to Reception on arrival. This allows you to sign for any expenses and then settle your bill at the Reception Desk at the end of your stay. Prices are shown and charged in Euros. Your room account can be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard or American Express) or cash (Euros).ROOMS
Villa e Palazzo Aminta has a total of 70 rooms and suites which are located across five different floors. All have private balconies or terraces with garden or lake views and each room has been carefully designed with its own colour scheme and decorated with rich fabrics and Italian furnishings. The rooms are equipped with Jacuzzi bathtub with shower, single or double sink, goose down quilts, safe, hairdryer, pillow menu, direct phone line, satellite TV and 24-hour room service. The hotel also has a limited number of Deluxe Lake Side View rooms with walk-in shower. As the hotel is on a relatively busy lakefront road some traffic noise may be experienced in the lake view rooms though the views are simply wonderful.Superior Garden View: The superior rooms measure approximately 22 square metres and feature a private balcony or terrace. They are located at the rear side of the hotel with beautiful views over the gardens.
Deluxe Lake Side View: These rooms measure approximately 22 square metres and feature a private balcony. They are located at the side of the hotel with a side view of the lake and the Borromean Islands.
Deluxe Front Lake View: These spacious rooms measure approximately 26 square metres and have a private balcony with magnificent views over the lake and the Borromean Islands.
SAFES
All rooms have an electronic safe which can be programmed with a personal code. Should you require any assistance please contact Reception.SMOKING POLICY
Villa e Palazzo Aminta offers a smoke-free environment. Smoking is only permitted outside of the hotel and the hotel kindly requests that smokers take the comfort of other guests into consideration.SPA & FITNESS
The property’s Spa features a Turkish bath, hot tub and a number of rooms where treatments such as detox scrubs, wraps and Zen Shiatsu massages can be enjoyed. There is also a well-equipped fitness centre on-site. Complimentary bike hire is also available.TELEPHONE DIRECTORY
Calls to other rooms can be made free of charge by dialling the room number. You can make an external telephone call from your room. Lift the handset and press 0 to obtain the line. Enter 00 for international calls then the country code and the city code without zero (0) followed by the telephone number. Example for UK: 0 00 44 (0) + phone number. Costs are available from Reception and charges are billed to your room account.TOILETRIES
A range of complimentary toiletries can be found in your en-suite bathroom.WATER
All of the rooms have mineral water provided which is refilled daily. In an effort to reduce plastic usage we recommend bringing a separate refillable bottle to take with you on excursions.WI-FI
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.Please note: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
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