Curator’s statement
This charming lake-side town is riddled with history and magic. Orta San Giulio is renowned as a sacred town and is founded on folklore that includes slaying dragons and secret gardens. It has earned its name from Saint Julius, who along with his brother discovered the lake and its island. When you step into town, you can truly understand how special this place is. After all, there’s a reason renowned chefs and acclaimed hoteliers have chosen to build a presence here even though the town itself has a population of only about 1,100.
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Where to stay in Orta San Guilio
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Things to do in Orta San Guilio
Enjoy an aperitivo in the main piazza (Piazza Mario Motta).
“Hike” to the Sacred Mountain. The walk is very short and simple, but uphill! You can also take a car about ¾ of the way up if needed.
Take a short boat ride over to the island, Isola San Giulio. You can visit the basilica and see a bone from the slain dragon defeated by St. Julius.
Relax along the water at one of the nearby beaches, or picnic on a dock like a local.
Get out on the lake and participate in some water sports with rentals, like paddleboards, kayaks, wake-surfing, etc.
Enjoy a scenic walk along the lake, following the pathway from the town center.
Visit the specialty shops in town, where it’s possible to buy things such as locally made cashmere clothing, hand-printed table linens, perfumes and more!
Places to eat & drink in Orta San Guilio
Ristorante Villa Crespi: world-renowned Chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo’s three-Michelin star restaurant located within the historic Villa Crespi Hotel. Enjoy seasonal tasting menus or alla carta dishes!
Locanda di Orta: Chef Andrea Monesi’s one Michelin star restaurant located in an unassuming Bed and Breakfast right in town! Offers seasonal tasting menus as well as alla carta dishes. An elevated dining experience at about half the price of that which can be found at Ristorante Villa Crespi.
Pan&Vino: Perfect for those who want to enjoy regional taglieri (meat and cheese boards) and wine. This restaurant offers a variety of options, each tailored after a specific region in Italy!
Enoteca Re di Coppe: An excellent choice to enjoy an Aperol Spritz in the piazza while enjoying the lake! A great option for aperitivo and small dishes.
The Palace: Open all day, offering a variety of options, but surely the best place in town to stop for breakfast! Great cappuccini and even better pastries. Be sure to try the cookies that come with your coffee! Also a great place to purchase any food/beverage items you’d like to take home with you. They have a great selection of locally made products and liquors.
Arte del Gelato: The best gelato in town! No matter what you order, you can’t go wrong, but I personally suggest trying the Cioccolato Azteco (a spicy dark chocolate)
Need to know
Although there is a nearby train station, it is best to visit with a car. A car gives more flexibility to visit the other nearby towns on the lake, as well as take a trip to Lake Maggiore. There are also quite a few high-end factory stores nearby as many luxury items are produced in the area. My top suggestions would be the Alessi factory store (home goods) and the Herno factory store (coats, clothing). If visiting with a car, be sure to park in one of the public parking garages. Avoid getting a fine by not driving into the town center parking (which is a ZTL zone and only accessible by car for locals).
Travel Advisor
Maddie Monto
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