Arona

Holiday Homes in Italy guide to Arona in Lake Maggiore

The pretty town of Arona is situated on the southern shores of Lake Maggiore. This popular medieval town boasts an artsy old town, famed for its colourful umbrellas that are strung across its narrow streets, as well as a pretty lakefront promenade offering spectacular views out to the imposing fortress and castle of Angera. Its pedestrianised centre as well as extensive lakeside walks make it the perfect place to explore and soak up the ambience of this stunning area.

What to do

Take a stroll along Lungolago Arona, the pretty waterfront promenade. Take in the spectacular views, stop at one of the many cafes for a refreshing drink or bite to eat whilst you watch the world go by. Take a ferry across the lake to the fortress at Angera, Rocca d'Angera, also known as Borromeo castle. This superbly conserved medieval castle stands dominantly on top of a rocky outcrop overlooking the lake. Explore its fascinating interior as well as its magnificent gardens whilst enjoying the stunning views across the lake and to the alps beyond. Dive into the charming old town. The medieval pedestrianised shopping zone is lined with
charming boutique shops to browse. Take a climb up to Rocca Barromea di Arona. Here you will find castle ruins as well as a
pretty park and little bar for a refreshing drink. Enjoy the spectacular views of the city and lake and the tranquil atmosphere.

Where to eat

For fine dining in a spectacular location head to restaurant Nautica. Situated in a medieval waterside turret it offers stunning views across the lake out to Angera castle. The menu offers a fine choice of delicious fish or meat dishes; they also have an interesting range of unusual Italian specialities and the deserts are fabulous. For the best seats with a view booking is advised. For speciality seafood right on the lakeside promenade head to Ristorante Vecchia Arona. Although the menu is fairly limited, the quality is outstanding and reasonably priced, the wine menu good and the service friendly.

Tucked behind its wine store façade you will find the popular Enoteca Ristorante Il Grappolo. The service is friendly and the traditional homemade menu impressive and reasonably priced. For pastries and people watching head to Strobino. Situated in a corner of Aronas renaissance Piazza del Popolo, this trendy bakery come bar offers a good variety of bread, cakes and pizzas whilst in the evening you can stop off for an aperitif with nibbles.

How to get there

The nearest major airport is located at Milan which is only 19.5km from the town and well served from UK airports. There are also airports at Lugano (38.7km) Linate (66km) Aosta (92.1km) and Turin (95.5km) The town's train station runs a regular service into central Milan as well as further afield to Domodossola in Italy and Geneva in Switzerland.