Italy ➜ Lago d'Orta

The most picturesque of the Italian glacial lakes runs in a north-south direction. Friedrich Nietzsche and Lord Byron were among its visitors. Honoré de Balzac described it as a sublime phenomenon in Les Employés. Its scenic reflections have something supernatural and dreamy about them. With its mild climate, it is popular with bathers.

The inhabited Isola San Giulio is densely packed with historical buildings and a popular destination for excursions. The Basilica di San Giulio and the Mater Ecclesiae nunnery are perched on the island.