Lake Orta – Piedmont: elegance, quiet and villages reflected in silent waters. Lake Orta, nestled between Cusio and the Piedmontese Pre-Alps, is one of the most romantic and intimate lakes in Piedmont. Its shores are home to ancient villages, suggestive islands and woods that descend to the water. Its atmosphere is discreet and harmonious, far from the most crowded tourist circuits, but capable of enchanting anyone who visits it. 🏞️ Reflected landscapes and calm waters: The lake is surrounded by green hills and gentle reliefs, which are reflected in its clear waters. The landscape changes with the light and the seasons, always maintaining an intimate and refined character. The banks offer panoramic vantage points and stretches perfect for shore walks. 👉 Tip: Take the walk that leads from Orta San Giulio to Sacro Monte: a short itinerary but full of views and spirituality. 🏘️ Elegant villages and history on the lake: The heart of the lake is Orta San Giulio, with its pedestrian historic center, paved squares and buildings overlooking the water. Opposite is the Island of San Giulio, reachable by boat, a place suspended between spirituality and silence, dominated by the basilica and the ancient monastery. 👉 Tip: Visit the island in the late afternoon, when the light turns golden and visitors are fewer. 🌿 Nature, trails and high altitude views: Around the lake there are paths through woods, farmhouses and mountain pastures. The area of Mottarone and Monte Mesma offers spectacular panoramic views of the lake and the Alpine peaks. Ideal for day trips departing from one of the coastal villages. 👉 Tip: Reach the top of Mottarone on foot or by car for a view that embraces eight lakes and the Monte Rosa chain. 🛶 Activities on the water and moments of relaxation: Lake Orta is suitable for swimming and has beaches, small beaches and equipped areas. You can go canoeing, sailing, sup and fishing, but also simply relax along the shores with views of the island. Boat traffic is limited, keeping the environment serene and not noisy. 👉 Tip: Rent an electric boat to sail noise-free and enjoy the view of the island from the center of the lake. 🍽️ Local flavors and tradition: The restaurants and trattorias in the area offer lake and mountain dishes: perch, Ossola cured meats, mountain pasture tome and typical desserts such as Orta biscuits. The wines of the Novara hills elegantly accompany each course. 👉 Tip: End the day with a dinner on the lake in Pella: a small village with a quiet promenade and restaurants overlooking the water. Lake Orta is a place where everything seems to slow down without forcing: a perfect balance between nature, art and contemplation.