Lake Orta
This little lake is situated close to Lake Maggiore, in Northern Italy. The guided tour can start from Orta or a full day excursion can start from Lake Maggiore. At the foot of the lake lies Orta San Giulio, the main tourist destination, a charming village situated in front of the Island San Giulio, the only island on the lake. The island is worth visiting. Here the mansions look onto the lake with their gardens and berths. The Basilica on the island is rich in frescoes and sculptures. In the parks of the several mansions built on Lake Orta flower in spring azaleas and rhododendrons. Green and blue are the colors of this "life size" lake. In Orta you can also visit the chapels of the Sacro Monte, decorated with scenes from the life of St. Francis of Assisi.