The words Stresa and Borromeo are synonymous with each other as this family took over control of the region after the Visconti family who had ruled over the fishing town in the 15th century. The town itself is much older and records can be traced back to the end of the first century.

As with many of the Italian Lakes Stresa has its fair share of Villas built by the rich and famous aristocrats of Europe (such as Villa Ducale dating from about 1770 and Villa Dell'Orto built in 1900, Villa Pallavicino, between Stresa and Belgirate now a zooligical park.

Access to the lakes was never easy however due to their glacial origins and the steep mountains and snowy passes. Access was made a lot simpler when the Simplon Pass was excavated to allow train service from north of the Alps to pass through Stresa in 1906. Stresa is now one of the most popular of the towns on Lake Maggiore.

So what goes on in Stresa? If you like music then there are often classical international music festivals (Settimane Musicali) which is a summer event. Regular boat services from the town's two ferry terminals go to the nearby Borromean Islands and a 20 minute cable car ride leads to the summit of Monte Mottarone, with the Giardino Botanico Alpinia en route. This first port of call is where you will find the Alpine Gardens. The entrance fee is included in the price of a return cable car ticket. These Alpine gardens cover nearly 10 acres and are treat for garden lovers.

The second port of call takes you to Mottarone then its a slow 15 minute walk to the summit. From which (on a clear day) you can see 7 lakes and Mount Rosa. During the summer there are departures every 20 minutes from Stresa Lido. Full timetables details can be seen at the links below.

You could also take a classical stroll around Stresa itself and take in the