Pettenasco is a fascinating village nestled on the eastern shore of Lake Orta, an alpine jewel set between Piedmont and Lombardy. Less known and quieter than the major lakes, Lake Orta and Pettenasco offer a refined and slow tourism experience, focused on natural beauty and tranquility. Its position is ideal for enjoying the view of the Island of San Giulio and for exploring the Cusio area, rich in history, art, and craft traditions, such as wood and copper working, testified by the Ecomuseum Cusius. Relaxation is guaranteed by the luxurious and charming hotels that dot the shore.

What to See and Our Travel Designers' Favorite Spots: Villages, Islands, and Sacred Mountains

• Pettenasco Lakeside Promenade – Ideal for relaxing walks and enjoying the lake view, with its piers and small beaches.
• Ecomuseum of Lake Orta and the Mountain – Preserves the memory of local traditions, particularly the ancient wood processing and the history of the Cusio industry.
• Island of San Giulio (accessible from Orta San Giulio) – The symbol of the lake, with its Basilica and the evocative Path of Meditation.
• Sacro Monte di Orta (UNESCO) – A complex of frescoed chapels offering a breathtaking view of the lake, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Gastronomy and Typical Products

• Tapulone – Typical dish of minced donkey meat (or alternatively beef) cooked in wine, a specialty of the Cusio area.
• Lake Fish – In Pettenasco, you can taste trout, perch, and tench, prepared simply to enhance their freshness.
• Piedmont Wines – The proximity to wine areas like the Novarese allows you to savor excellent wines such as Nebbiolo and Gattinara.
• Artisanal Pastry Sweets – Typical Piedmontese confectionery specialties.

Events, Culture, and Excursions

• Cusio Festival – Summer music festival with concerts in evocative locations around the lake.
• Local Craftsmanship – Pettenasco and neighboring towns keep the tradition of ceramics, wrought iron, and woodworking alive.
• Orta San Giulio – The most famous village on the lake, with its narrow streets and squares full of charm, easily reachable in a few minutes.

Institutional Links

• Official Website of the Municipality of Pettenasco
• Official Lake Orta Tourism Website

Top 5 Recommended Accommodations by Our Local Experts

• Laqua by the Lake (Cannavacciuolo Group) – Luxury and design structure in Pettenasco, with a modern restaurant and beach club.
• Hotel Aracoeli – Hotel with a splendid panoramic position and refined services.
• Hotel L'Approdo – Welcoming structure with lake view and a good internal restaurant.
• Hotel La Bussola (Orta San Giulio - nearby) – Excellent option with lake view and proximity to the Island of San Giulio.
• Villa Crespi (Orta San Giulio - nearby) – Historic 5-star luxury hotel with Moorish architecture and 3 Michelin star restaurant.

Top 5 Recommended Restaurants

• Cannavacciuolo by the Lake (Laqua by the Lake) – Modern Piedmontese cuisine under the direction of Chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo (in Pettenasco).
• Villa Crespi (3 Michelin Stars - Orta San Giulio) – Top-level gastronomic experience with the cuisine of Chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo (nearby).
• Locanda di Orta (Orta San Giulio - Michelin) – Michelin-starred restaurant offering local cuisine.
• Ristorante Imbarcadero – Excellent lake fish and Piedmontese cuisine, with a view of the Pettenasco gulf.
• Ustaria Ca’ dal Rat (Omegna - nearby) – Rustic setting and traditional Piedmontese cuisine.