Piazza Motta, Orta San Giulio
Leave the autostrada early and wind down to Lake Orta’s car-free main square. Grab a quick espresso at Café d’Orta, watch the wooden boats head to the Isola di San Giulio, and wander the narrow, slate-paved alleys before the afternoon crowds arrive.
Ustaria Ca' dal Sogno
A short, steep climb into the hills brings you to this rustic-refined tavern. Nab a table on the terrace for Piedmontese classics like handmade tajarin pasta and slow-braised veal, served alongside a spectacular, elevated view of the lake.
Vetta del Mottarone
Point your hood toward the sky on the winding mountain road up Mottarone. From the grassy summit, you'll get a spectacular 360-degree sweep of seven different lakes and the snow-dusted peaks of Monte Rosa.
Sky Bar at Hotel La Palma
Wind down the mountain to Stresa on Lake Maggiore for a front-row seat to Belle Époque grand-dame hotels. Head up to this sleek rooftop bar for a classic Negroni and a final view of the Borromean Islands before the easy drive back to Milan.
