Cannero – Spring Gardens of Lake Maggiore
24 – 31 March 2010
Concentrating on the wealth of beautiful gardens around Lake Maggiore in Italy and
Switzerland to the north, this tour gives a balance between interesting botanic gardens
and those of classic Renaissance and later Italian style. Sheltered by high Alps to the
north, the sharply varied seasonal temperatures and the humidity of the lakes provide
excellent growing conditions. The exuberant spring flowers are set against breathtaking
scenery, in particular many
varieties of camellia and magnolia
– a spectacular yellow variety is
particularly eye-catching. Lake
Maggiore is famed for its camellia
collections which are extensive and
include many ancient varieties.
We stay in the very comfortable Hotel Cannero with its pretty garden on the quiet
Maggiore lakeside. Of a
high standard, it has recently been
beautifully renovated by the architect
Mauro Bissattini, and is owned and
run by the Gallinotto family who are
most welcoming. The restaurant
overlooks the lake and mountains
beyond, and on one evening we
enjoy north Italian cuisine with
special local dishes. Cannero, a
delightful, typically Italian lakeside
village, is a perfect base.
Activity Level: On/off lake boats. Mostly level. Some steps. Good paths.
Itinerary
DAY ONE – WEDNESDAY 24 MARCH
Morning flights to Milan Malpensa. Transfer to
the hotel and afternoon to relax or join an optional
village walk. Aperitivo and short talk on the week’s
programme before dinner.
DAY TWO – THURSDAY 25 MARCH
We leave for a guided visit to the romantic
garden of San Remigio created early last century.
Statues are based on Greek and Roman myths,
the fountains are magnificent, and roses ramble
over stone walls. At lunchtime we proceed to the
gardens of Villa Taranto where light refreshments
are available. The collection of plants, in 44 acres,
is gathered from all over the world. Tasting of
Piedmont wines to be enjoyed in the hotel cantina
before dinner.
DAY THREE – FRIDAY 26 MARCH
Morning visit to Villa Cicogna-Mozzoni and gardens
at Bisuschio. The Renaissance garden dates back to
1560, while beyond is the celebrated 16th century
water staircase. Belonging to the same family for
over 400 years, the current owner will show us the
villa and gardens, which have an air of elegance
and serenity. Lunch available before visiting the
elegant gardens of Villa della Porta Bozzolo near
Varese, owned by FAI, the Italian National Trust.
Return late afternoon to Cannero.
DAY FOUR – SATURDAY 27 MARCH
We are joined by Beat Fischer, our botanist, who
will give an excellent insight into camellias and
plants which thrive on acid soil. Leave in the
morning by ferry for Luino and to the botanical
park and nursery of Otto Eisenhut at San Nazzaro in
Switzerland. Guided tour of the collections, one of
the most comprehensive in Europe specialising in
magnolias, camellias, cornus and azaleas. Continue
to Locarno to visit the extensive camellia exhibition.
DAY FIVE – SUNDAY 28 MARCH
In the morning we visit the lakeside town of
Cannobio, and the buzz of the Sunday morning
market, and then take the ferry to Ascona in
Switzerland, with lunchtime free. We continue to
the well-known Swiss botanical garden on Isole
di Brissago. The retired head gardener will take
us round, explaining the collections. Ferry back to
the hotel.
DAY SIX – MONDAY 29 MARCH
Morning visit to a private garden on the lakeside of
Cannero. We then leave for the Borromean island
of Isola Madre, essentially a botanic garden with its
own microclimate, with citrus trees, mimosa and
carob, hedges of camellias, cornus and azaleas – a
magical garden. A huge Kashmir cypress grows by
the Renaissance villa which can be visited.
DAY SEVEN – TUESDAY 30 MARCH
We enjoy a full-day visit to the Borromean island
of Isola Bella. An architectural wonder, it was
conceived as a ship in the early 17th century. In
the morning we visit the superb, theatrical Baroque
gardens. In the afternoon there will be time to visit
the magnificent palazzo. Return by ferry to Cannero.
DAY EIGHT – WEDNESDAY 31 MARCH
We leave after breakfast for Malpensa and the
return flights.
NB. Why not add a few more days at the Hotel Cannero.
