Italy

To get a full refund, cancellation must be no less than 8 days before the local start time of the experience.

If traveler cancels their booking from 7 to 0 days before the local start time of the experience, no refund is provided.

This experience unfolds in the beautiful countryside of Lake Orta, where history, nature, and hidden beauty merge. It begins at the Sacro Monte di San Francesco, an enigmatic sanctuary perched above the water. Walking through its frescoed chapels and terracotta statues offers a glimpse into centuries of devotion, framed by breathtaking views.

A short ride leads to Miasino, a village of quiet elegance where noble architecture and history linger. The path winds through its streets to Villa Nigra, a Renaissance jewel admired for its frescoes, before reaching the parish church. Nearby lies a hidden treasure: the Giardino Dei Semplici, one of the world’s smallest botanical gardens, famous for its unique plant collection.

A final stop at Madonna della Bocciola unveils one of the most breathtaking panoramas of Lake Orta, before returning to Orta San Giulio, where you will indulge in local cuisine, best savored in a lakeside restaurant, embraced by Italian hospitality.

This experience blends breathtaking views, spiritual retreats, and the vibrant energy of Orta San Giulio. From the rolling hills, the lake unfolds in all its beauty, an ever-changing mirror of light and water. The scenery is not just something to admire but to experience, wrapped in an atmosphere both inspiring and deeply intimate.

What makes this journey special is its rhythm, shifting between contemplation and discovery. The silence of the sanctuary invites reflection, while the streets of Orta San Giulio lead into a lively world of artisan shops and welcoming cafés. This contrast creates a rare and fluid balance, where history and daily life coexist in perfect harmony.

A final moment at Madonna della Bocciola offers an unforgettable panorama of Lake Orta, a scene that lingers in the mind long after the journey ends. This experience is not just about seeing a place but stepping into its essence, where every detail reveals a different side of its timeless charm.

A charming walk through Miasino, a village noted for noble architecture and quiet elegance. Here, admire the splendid Villa Nigra from outside, a Renaissance treasure richly adorned with frescoes. The highlight is the tiny but enchanting Giardino dei Semplici, among the world’s smallest botanical gardens, housing rare plants such as the elusive Manuka.

Miasino and its botanical garden seem like a miniature universe where time slows down. Surrounded by quiet charm, rare plants, and refined architecture, visitors experience an almost surreal atmosphere, unlike anywhere else.

Stroll Miasino’s elegant streets and explore a tiny, rare botanical haven.

Discover Miasino

A visit to the Madonna della Bocciola Sanctuary, a beautifully preserved eighteenth-century church adorned with vibrant neoclassical frescoes. Inside lies a small chapel safeguarding the relic of a miraculous bud, marking the site where the Virgin Mary appeared in 1543. The experience concludes with lunch in a delightful lakeside restaurant in Orta San Giulio.

The sanctuary is framed by exceptional natural beauty, offering perhaps the most breathtaking panorama of Lake Orta. Its tranquil setting makes it a memorable final moment, profoundly connecting visitors to the landscape.

A lakeside sanctuary with frescoes, history, and stunning views of Lake Orta

Madonna della Bocciola

A short but immersive visit to the UNESCO-listed Sacro Monte di San Francesco, a Baroque site perched above Lake Orta, dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi. This sacred hill is renowned for its frescoed chapels, elegant terracotta statues, and evocative pathways, all harmoniously integrated into a peaceful nature reserve.

It blends artistic heritage and natural beauty seamlessly, creating an atmosphere that feels suspended in time. Each chapel offers intimate glimpses of art framed by serene landscapes, inviting contemplation and wonder.

Discover art, serenity, and beauty at Lake Orta’s UNESCO gem.

Sacro Monte di San Francesco

Day Trip from Milan to Lake Orta exploring scenic hills, sacred sites and sweeping lake views.

The per person price of this experience assumes a minimum number of participants to cover base costs and logistics. The supplemental fee enables us to maintain quality and exclusivity for your smaller than minimum group

The Hills Above Orta

Private guided experience through Lake Orta’s countryside, exploring Sacro Monte di San Francesco, Miasino village, Villa Nigra, and Giardino dei Semplici botanical garden.

Panoramic stop at Madonna della Bocciola.

Entry tickets where needed.

Lunch at a lakeside restaurant in Orta San Giulio.

** This experience has a fixed price of €960 for 1–4 participants. 

Comfortable walking shoes and a mindset ready for quiet contemplation and new perspectives.

After the booking, chat vith Elena for exact location of the meeting point. 

Elena Sisti is a cultural tourism expert with a deep passion for showcasing Italy’s artistic and historical heritage. With a background in research and a keen eye for the country’s lesser-known treasures, she has dedicated her career to creating meaningful travel experiences that go beyond traditional tourism. Committed to promoting a more thoughtful and immersive approach to exploring Italy, she believes in highlighting its hidden cultural gems while fostering a deeper connection between visitors and local traditions. Elena will assign a local expert guide from her team for this experience. 