Belgirate is a small and charming municipality in the province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, located on the Piedmont shore of Lake Maggiore. Known since the nineteenth century as a holiday destination for the aristocracy and upper middle class, Belgirate retains its charm thanks to its numerous historic villas, lush gardens, and tranquil lakeside promenade. The town is a true terrace over the Borromean Gulf, offering a romantic and relaxed atmosphere within a setting of historical and artistic prestige.

What to See: History, Art, and Architecture

• Old Church and New Church (Chiesa Vecchia e Chiesa Nuova) – The Old Church of Santa Maria (11th century, Romanesque) is a gem with medieval frescoes and an evocative portico. The New Church, on the other hand, is of a more recent era.
• Villa Carlotta – The most famous building, known for its neoclassical architecture and well-kept gardens, one of the icons of the lakefront.
• Lakeside Promenade (Passeggiata a Lago) – The beating heart of the village, where elegant palaces overlook the water and splendid views can be admired, especially at sunset.
• Ancient Oratory of San Carlo Borromeo – A small but significant historic chapel that testifies to the passage of the Saint.

Gastronomy and Typical Products

• Perch and Whitefish (Lavarello) – Lake fish is the protagonist, cooked simply or in traditional preparations such as fried bleak (frittura di alborelle) (if available) and perch fillets.
• Alpine Cheeses and Cured Meats – The hilly area offers mountain products such as fresh and aged cheeses, and artisan cured meats.
• Margheritine di Stresa (nearby) – Typical Savoy biscuits found in local pastry shops, linked to the Lake Maggiore tradition.
• Piedmont Wines – The proximity to the Piedmontese wine regions ensures access to fine wines such as Nebbiolo and Barbera.

Events, Excursions, and Surroundings

• Summer Events and Concerts – The village hosts cultural events and concerts on the lakefront, leveraging the evocative setting.
• Hillside Excursions – Trails that lead into the surrounding hills, among woods and panoramic points, ideal for light trekking.
• Borromean Islands (Isole Borromee) – Easily accessible by boat, they represent the essential excursion (Isola Bella, Isola Madre, Isola Pescatori).
• Stresa and Mottarone – The renowned Stresa is only a few minutes away, from where you can take the cable car up to Mottarone for the famous "7-lake panorama."

Institutional Links

• Official Website of the Municipality of Belgirate
• Tourist Office Lakes District - Belgirate

Top 5 Recommended Accommodations

• Hotel Villa Carlotta – Icon of Belgirate, with a privileged position and high-level services.
• Grand Hotel Des Iles Borromées & Spa – (Near Stresa) The most famous luxury option in the immediate vicinity.
• Hotel La Palma (Stresa) – Excellent compromise between luxury and convenience, with a magnificent terrace.
• Albergo Fontana – Simple and welcoming, with traditional management and good value for money.
• Relais Casali della Cisterna – Charming accommodation facility in the immediate hills, surrounded by greenery.

Top 5 Recommended Restaurants

• Ristorante Milano – Known for lake cuisine and panoramic views, a classic in Belgirate.
• Ristorante Villa Carlotta – Refined cuisine inside the historic hotel.
• Ristorante Il Monastero (Arona, nearby) – Excellent for land and meat dishes.
• Trattoria Imbarcadero – Lake view and traditional dishes in an informal setting.
• Pizzeria Mezzo Metro – Great alternative for quality pizza.