The Best of the Italian Lakes

Meet at our Departure Office at London St Pancras, and board the Eurostar to Paris. Continue to Turin, where you stay overnight.

On Day 2, enjoy a walking tour of this pretty Italian city that includes the Mole Antonelliana, a beautiful example of 19th-century Italian architecture, and the Piazza Castello. After some free time for lunch, transfer by coach to Pettenasco on Lake Orta.The lake is overlooked by the pristine peak of Monte Mottarone and the village of Orta, situated nearby, has a tranquil atmosphere. Unlike its more iconic cousins, Lake Garda and Lake Como, Lake Orta's seclusion makes it a peaceful alternative, where visitors can truly experience the authentic Italian way of life.

• Day 1 - Dinner
• Day 2 - Breakfast, Dinner

You enjoy a scenic cruise across Lake Orta to enchanting Isola San Giulio, where you have free time before returning by boat to Pettenasco. Enjoy seeing the towns from an entirely new perspective from the gentle waters of the lake; white townhouses and municipal buildings with terracotta roofs which stand out against the lush green of the forest covered mountainside. The island itself is an enchanting tiny village, dominated by an imposing monastery with a beautiful tower which gazes like a lighthouse across the lake. The inside of the Basilica is well worth a visit, with grand pieces of artwork stretching across the walls and under the half domes.

After time to explore, transfer by boat to Orta San Giulio. The town's piazzas are an excellent place to unwind, while the lakefront is populated by small fishing boats toing and froing throughout the day. Popular with writers since the 19th century, Orta San Giulio's elegant streets have welcomed the likes of Lord Byron and Robert Browning, and it's little wonder, with such incredible landscapes as inspiration.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Today you're free to explore Lake Orta. The lake and its surrounding villages don't seem to have changed much in the last 100 years, and are filled with charms. Your hotel is located directly on the lake and boasts spectacular views from its terrace, so perhaps linger over a coffee and drink in the landscape.

On Day 5, uncover picturesque Lake Como, nestled in the foothills of the Alps. Como is sublime, and has featured as a backdrop in a number of famous films. Home to luxurious villas, orange trees, and cheerful villages of sunlit squares and Renaissance charm, the whole area is a delight to explore. You visit the lakeside town of Menaggio, located on the western shore of Lake Como. The town boasts an abundance of classic Italian appeal. The streets are a pleasure to explore, and the Piazza Garibaldi in the heart of the Old Town offers the perfect place to stop for a gelato and soak up the atmosphere. Cross the lake by ferry to Bellagio, with its stunning location on the edge of a peninsula that juts into the lake. You have some time here to explore. The old world streets, winding away from the main square are home to a number of artisan shops, selling locally produced, one-of-a-kind items.

• Day 4 - Breakfast, Dinner
• Day 5 - Breakfast, Dinner

You visit the pretty Swiss town of Lugano by coach, where you have free time to explore. Set on the shores of the glacial Lake Lugano, the city is filled with chic boutiques, pavement cafés, and cosy bars. Perhaps take a scenic walk along the waterfront before finding a local spot for lunch. You could indulge in some famous Swiss cheese and sample fondue or raclette, two delicious melted cheese dishes.

On Day 7, your excursion is to Stresa, which has welcomed visitors to its luxurious villas and elegant hotels since the 19th century. You have plenty of time to explore, perhaps stroll along the promenade and soak up the serenity. You may also consider taking a scenic boat trip to the Borromean islands.

• Day 6 - Breakfast, Dinner
• Day 7 - Breakfast, Dinner

Today, you bid farewell to Lake Orta and Italy as you return to Paris by rail, before connecting with the Eurostar to London St Pancras.

• Breakfast