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Via Vittorio Veneto, 28922 Verbania VB, Italy
Verbania
Verbania, a picturesque town nestled along the shores of Lake Maggiore in northern Italy, is a hidden gem in the Piedmont region. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and tranquil atmosphere, Verbania is a destination that offers a harmonious blend of lakefront charm and mountain landscapes. Situated at the foot of the Alps and surrounded by lush greenery, Verbania is often referred to as “the garden on the lake,” a fitting description for a town famous for its stunning botanical gardens and outdoor spaces. The town is relatively young, having been formed in 1939 through the merger of several smaller municipalities, including Intra, Pallanza, and Suna. This unification brought together different areas with their own unique identities, creating a dynamic town that offers visitors a diverse range of experiences. Pallanza, with its elegant lakeside promenades and historic villas, exudes an old-world charm, while Intra, the commercial hub of Verbania, is lively with bustling markets, shops, and restaurants. Suna, the quietest part of Verbania, offers a more laid-back, residential atmosphere with beautiful beaches and scenic views of the lake. One of Verbania’s most famous attractions is the Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens, which are widely regarded as some of the most beautiful in Europe. The gardens were created in the 1930s by Scottish captain Neil McEacharn, who transformed a barren hillside into a horticultural paradise. Spanning over 16 hectares, the gardens are home to thousands of plant species from around the world, including rare tropical flowers, towering trees, and vibrant seasonal blooms. A stroll through the carefully curated pathways offers visitors a serene escape, with the gardens changing character with the seasons, from the explosion of colours in spring to the rich hues of autumn.
Lake Maggiore itself plays a central role in Verbania’s allure. The town’s position on its western shore provides panoramic views across the water to the Borromean Islands and the Lombardy region beyond. The lake is a hub for recreational activities, from sailing and boating to swimming and fishing. The nearby Isola Bella and Isola Madre, two of the Borromean Islands, are popular day trips from Verbania, offering visitors the chance to explore lavish palaces, formal gardens, and art collections that date back centuries. Beyond its natural beauty, Verbania is also steeped in history and culture. Its streets are lined with historic churches, elegant villas, and museums. The Museo del Paesaggio (Museum of the Landscape), located in Pallanza, showcases the region’s artistic and cultural heritage, with collections that focus on landscape art, sculpture, and archaeology. This museum is a testament to Verbania’s long-standing connection to art and nature, celebrating the works of local artists who have been inspired by the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Verbania is also a gateway to the nearby Val Grande National Park, one of the largest wilderness areas in Italy. The park offers hiking trails for all levels, taking visitors through dense forests, alpine meadows, and past old stone villages that have remained unchanged for centuries. For those seeking a deeper connection with nature, Val Grande provides an escape into Italy’s wild heart, just a short distance from the comforts of the lakeside town. While Verbania may not be as well-known as other Italian tourist destinations, its charm lies in its peaceful ambiance and unspoiled beauty. The town’s mild climate, especially during the spring and summer months, makes it an ideal location for leisurely holidays, where visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, explore historic sites, or simply relax by the lake. Verbania’s blend of natural splendour, cultural richness, and tranquillity makes it a perfect retreat for those looking to experience the quieter side of Italy. Verbania is a town where the scenic beauty of Lake Maggiore meets a rich cultural and historical legacy. Its botanical gardens, lakefront views, and proximity to natural parks make it a unique and inviting destination for travellers seeking relaxation and exploration.
Worth a Visit
Via Vittorio Veneto is one of the main streets in Verbania, a charming town located on the western shore of Lake Maggiore in northern Italy. Situated in the Piedmont region, Verbania is often referred to as the “garden on the lake” for its elegant villas, lush gardens, and scenic promenades. Via Vittorio Veneto reflects the town’s blend of history, local life, and Italian style. The street is lined with a mix of traditional buildings, small shops, cafés, and services, making it a lively and practical hub for both residents and visitors. Its central location allows easy access to nearby attractions, including the picturesque lakefront, botanical gardens, and ferry connections to other lake towns. With its combination of everyday conveniences and proximity to cultural landmarks, Via Vittorio Veneto offers a glimpse into the authentic rhythm of Verbania, where modern living meets timeless lakeside charm.
Parco di Villa Giulia, located along Via Vittorio Veneto in Verbania, is one of the town’s most elegant and relaxing green spaces. Overlooking the stunning shores of Lake Maggiore, this historic park was once part of Villa Giulia, a 19th-century residence built as a lakeside retreat. Today, the park is open to the public and offers a blend of natural beauty, landscaped gardens, and sweeping views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Visitors can stroll beneath centuries-old trees, enjoy the colorful seasonal blooms, or pause on benches to admire the tranquil scenery. The park is also used as a venue for cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions, making it a vibrant space where nature, history, and community meet. Whether for a peaceful walk, a family outing, or a romantic lakeside escape, Parco di Villa Giulia is a highlight of Verbania’s charm and elegance.
Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens
Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens, located in Verbania on the picturesque western shore of Lake Maggiore, are among the most celebrated botanical gardens in Europe. They are not only a haven for plant lovers but also a destination that reflects the perfect harmony between natural beauty, careful planning, and cultural heritage. Spread across approximately 16 hectares, the gardens are renowned for their extraordinary variety, housing more than 20,000 species and cultivars of plants from every corner of the globe. From vibrant seasonal flowers to exotic trees and rare specimens, the gardens offer an ever-changing palette of colours, scents, and textures that delight visitors throughout the year.
The history of Villa Taranto is deeply tied to the vision of its founder, Captain Neil Boyd McEacharn, a Scottish nobleman with a passion for horticulture. In 1931, he purchased the estate with the dream of creating a garden that could rival the great botanical treasures of the world. Over the years, he transformed the land into a masterpiece of landscape architecture, combining formal Italian-style terraces with English-style lawns, winding paths, and naturalistic areas. Today, his vision continues to thrive, with the gardens open to the public as both a place of enjoyment and scientific study.
One of the most striking features of the gardens is their seasonal variety. In spring, thousands of tulips burst into bloom, creating dazzling fields of colour that have become a signature attraction. Summer brings the enchanting sight of giant water lilies and lotus flowers, while autumn highlights rich foliage and late-blooming species. Carefully curated routes lead visitors past fountains, waterfalls, greenhouses, and panoramic viewpoints, ensuring that every corner reveals something new and memorable.
Beyond their beauty, the Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens also serve an important role in conservation and education. Rare and endangered plants are cultivated here, contributing to biodiversity preservation. Informative signage and organized tours help visitors gain a deeper understanding of the plants and their origins, making the gardens as much a place of learning as of leisure.
For those exploring Lake Maggiore, a visit to Villa Taranto is an unforgettable experience. Whether you are a dedicated botanist, a casual traveller, or someone simply seeking tranquillity surrounded by nature, the gardens offer something unique. They stand as a testament to the passion of their creator and continue to uphold Verbania’s reputation as the “garden on Lake Maggiore.”
Photo Gallery of Walk 1 – Lungolago Giovanni Palatucci to Viale delle Magnolie
Approximately 2.54 km – 1.56 miles
The walk starts in Lungolago Giovanni Palatucci – Via Vittorio Veneto – Via Vittorio Veneto – Piazza S. Leonardo – Chiesa Parrocchiale di S. Leonardo Pallanza, Piazza S. Leonardo – Piazza S. Leonardo -Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi – Viale delle Magnolie
Photo Gallery of Walk 2 – Vicolo Bella Venezia to Via Ruga
Approximately 2.43 km – 1.51 miles
The walk starts in Vicolo Bella Venezia – Via Antonio Tacchini – Via Luigi Cadorna – Vicolo Bella Venezia – Via Luigi Cadorna – Piazza Antonio Gramsci – Via Giuseppe Castelli – Piazza Antonio Gramsci – Viale Giuseppe Azari – Walk back along Viale Giuseppe Azari to Piazza Antonio Gramsci – Via Ruga
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