Flavours of Lakes & Mountains

Experience the authentic flavours of Piedmont on a journey that combines outstanding gastronomy with spectacular landscapes. From the rice fields of the Po Valley to the Alpine valleys and the shores of Lake Maggiore, each day introduces the traditional products, recipes and culinary heritage that define this remarkable region.

Rice, local wines, mountain specialities, game dishes and fresh lake fish create an unforgettable itinerary celebrating Northern Italy's rich food culture.

Tour Highlights

The rice fields of the Po Valley
Visit to a traditional rice mill
Traditional rice-based lunch
Historic centre of Novara
Vigezzina-Centovalli Railway
Mountain lunch featuring polenta and game
Locarno and Italian-speaking Switzerland
Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso
Isola Bella and Isola dei Pescatori
Traditional Lake Maggiore fish cuisine

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival at Lake Maggiore

Arrival at the hotel, check-in, dinner and overnight stay.

Day 2 – The Rice Traditions of Piedmont

Travel into the fertile plains surrounding Novara, one of Europe's most important rice-growing regions.

Visit a traditional rice mill to discover the cultivation and production process before enjoying a lunch featuring classic Piedmontese rice dishes.

In the afternoon, explore the historic centre of Novara, including the Broletto, the Basilica of San Gaudenzio and its impressive dome designed by Alessandro Antonelli.

Day 3 – Alpine Flavours

Journey into the beautiful Vigezzo Valley, also known as the Valley of the Painters.

Board the scenic Vigezzina-Centovalli Railway, travelling through forests, mountain valleys and spectacular bridges to Re and onwards to Locarno in Switzerland.

Enjoy a traditional mountain lunch featuring regional specialities such as polenta and game.

Day 4 – The Flavours of Lake Maggiore

A full-day excursion dedicated to the culinary traditions of Lake Maggiore.

Visit the spectacular Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso, before continuing by private boat to Isola Bella, where lunch showcases the lake's traditional fish specialities.

The afternoon includes a visit to the magnificent Borromeo Palace and its Italian gardens, followed by a stroll through the charming streets of Isola dei Pescatori and free time in elegant Stresa.