Ready? Let’s go! After picking up the Vespa in Stresa, the adventure begins along the scenic roads of Lake Maggiore. Head up toward the suggestive Gignese Big Bench, from which you can admire the lake from a surprising perspective, then descend back toward the water through Belgirate, a small village overlooking the lake. Continuing on, you reach Arona, elegant and lively, before boarding the ferry to Angera, experiencing the lake from the water too. On the Lombard shore, ride toward Laveno-Mombello and visit the iconic Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso, nestled in the rock. The tour continues through nature and panoramic views in the Taino area and the Quassa Gulf Park, before indulging in a wine tasting at a cellar near Angera. Grand finale at the majestic Borromeo Castle of Angera, from which you can enjoy one of the most spectacular views of the entire itinerary.
What you will discover:
Ready? Let’s go! After picking up the Vespa in Stresa, the adventure begins along the scenic roads of Lake Maggiore. Head up toward the suggestive Gignese Big Bench, from which you can admire the lake from a surprising perspective, then descend back toward the water through Belgirate, a small village overlooking the lake. Continuing on, you reach Arona, elegant and lively, before boarding the ferry to Angera, experiencing the lake from the water too. On the Lombard shore, ride toward Laveno-Mombello and visit the iconic Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso, nestled in the rock. The tour continues through nature and panoramic views in the Taino area and the Quassa Gulf Park, before indulging in a wine tasting at a cellar near Angera. Grand finale at the majestic Borromeo Castle of Angera, from which you can enjoy one of the most spectacular views of the entire itinerary.
What you will discover:
The journey begins on the Piedmontese shore of Lake Maggiore, from the heart of Stresa, where you can pick up your Vespa and get ready for a unique experience. Stresa is one of the most refined and scenic locations on the entire lake. You will have the chance to stroll along the famous lakeside promenade, among flower beds and palm trees, with your gaze opening onto the splendid Borromean Islands, which seem to float on the water like a painting.
Continue your journey to reach the famous Gignese Big Bench, one of the iconic Big Benches overlooking extraordinary landscapes. Take the opportunity to snap souvenir photos, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the inimitable breathtaking view, letting the scenery do the rest.
Get back in the saddle to reach Belgirate: a small pearl overlooking the water, characterized by historic houses, flowered balconies, and an intimate, silent lakeside. Here, with your Vespa, you will find the ideal dimension: gentle curves, the scent of the lake, and that pleasant feeling of freedom that two-wheeled travel can offer.
Next, you will stop in Arona, which stretches harmoniously along the Piedmontese shore of Lake Maggiore, with a compact but lively historic center made of cobbled streets, warm-toned buildings, and small squares that suddenly open up toward the water. Don't miss the Rocca Borromea park, lush gardens where you can take pleasant walks overlooking Lake Maggiore.
After visiting these stops, you will leave the Piedmontese side to explore the Lombard shore of the lake. From Arona, you will take the ferry across Lake Maggiore, which will drop you off at Angera.
After skirting the Piedmontese shores of Lake Maggiore, passing through wide and bright landscapes, your first day ends in Laveno-Mombello, which you will reach once you arrive in Angera. The center is orderly and lively, but never chaotic: small streets, glimpses of the harbor, and its evening colors. You will have dinner and stay overnight at the Hotel Funivia del Lago Maggiore, enjoying a typical lake dinner and admiring the local views.
After staying in Laveno, head toward the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso, aspectacular monastery carved into the rock, with historic frescoes and a unique meditative charm on Lake Maggiore. The view from the path or the terrace is one of the most iconic panoramas of the entire eastern shore.
Between Ranco and Ispra, there is a stretch of Lake Maggiore that still preserves a wild and silent soul. The Quassa Gulf Park is one of the most suggestive natural areas on the shore; here the landscape changes: no elegant lakeside promenades or crowded centers, but open meadows, shaded groves, and simple paths along the water. This is perfect for a relaxing break during your Vespa tour, walking through the greenery with the lake always by your side.
Then reach the Cascina Piano Sas Farm in Angera to enjoy an excellent and local wine tasting. You will be warmly welcomed and guided through a visit to the cellar and vineyard, followed by a tasting of five types of wine, accompanied by snacks.
It's time to visit the Borromeo Castle of Angera, agrand medieval fortress perched above Angera, rich in history, frescoed halls, and one of Italy's most original museums (including the Doll and Toy Museum). From the terrace, you can enjoy a superb view of the lake and the Lombard shore.
Your tour has come to an end: you will board a ferry from Angera to cross Lake Maggiore to Arona. From Arona, you will then return to Stresa, where you will return the Vespas, taking with you the memory of an authentic, panoramic, and deeply moving experience.
