Just a few kilometers from Lake Maggiore, Lake Orta enchants with its intimate and timeless atmosphere.
The picturesque medieval village of Orta San Giulio, entirely pedestrian, is a gem to explore, with its charming alleys, elegant buildings, and breathtaking views of the lake.
From here, a boat trip to the Island of San Giulio is a must, dominated by the ancient abbey, as well as a visit to the Sacro Monte di Orta.
Island of San Giulio
Small and charming, the Island of San Giulio emerges from the waters of Lake Orta, enveloped in an aura of spirituality and silence. Dominated by the ancient Benedictine Abbey, the island features the evocative Via del Silenzio e della Meditazione (Way of Silence and Meditation), a path that invites quietness and reflection among historic buildings and enchanting views of the lake.
Sacro Monte di Orta
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Sacro Monte di Orta is a nature-immersed trail that tells the life of St. Francis of Assisi through 20 frescoed chapels decorated with extraordinary sculptural groups. Situated on a panoramic promontory, it offers a breathtaking view of Lake Orta, providing a unique experience that blends art, spirituality, and landscape.
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- Aerial view of San Giulio island, Orta Lake, Italy. High quality photo
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- Street Caire Albertoletti leading from the main square, square Motta, located in the historic center, to the church of Santa Maria Assunta. Orta San Giulio is famous for for the historical center, traditional shops, typical restaurants, old houses, alleys in stone and pebbles; for San Giulio island or isola San Giulio, a little island with very picturesque buildings and alleys. It can be reached by boat or motorboat, is dominated by the Roman basilica, the bishop’s palace and the Benedictine abbey. Another attraction is the Sacro Monte di Orta, on the hill behind the village, entirely dedicated to a saint, the 20 chapels that compose it depict episodes of the life and miracles of St. Francis of Assisi. Piedmont, province of Novara