Meina, situated on the southern shores of Lake Maggiore, lies approximately 77 kilometers northwest of Milan. Often referred to as the 'village of villas,' this municipality in the Province of Novara is distinguished by its grand lakeside residences, such as the neo-Palladian Villa Eden and the classical Villa Faraggiana, which houses a botanical museum. The town center features the colorful Palazzo Municipale, adorned with historic frescoes. Beyond its architectural beauty, Meina holds significant historical weight as the site of WWII tragedies, commemorated in film and memory. For frequent travelers seeking a blend of serene lake views, cultural heritage, and quiet elegance away from major urban hubs, Meina offers a compelling base for exploring the Piedmont region.
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Accommodations are primarily concentrated along the southern lakeshore. This area provides easy access to iconic landmarks like Villa Eden and offers a tranquil atmosphere ideal for experiencing the town's reputation as the 'village of villas.' Staying here places you at the heart of the scenic waterfront.
Located about 77 kilometers northwest of Milan, Meina is accessible via road or rail connections from Milan's main transport hubs. While there is no direct IATA airport code for the town itself, the proximity to Milan allows for efficient travel planning, making it suitable for itineraries combining urban exploration with lakeside relaxation.
Guests can explore architectural gems like Villa Eden, featuring neo-Palladian symmetry, and Villa Faraggiana, which grounds the Botanical Museum. The town also invites reflection on its WWII history, including the events that inspired the film 'Hotel Meina.' These sites offer a rich cultural experience for travelers interested in history and classical design.
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On the lower slopes above Lake Maggiore, this rustic building offers particularly panoramic views of the verdant landscape, enjoyed both from the terrace and most indoor tables. The atmosphere is homey with a sense of long-standing tradition, and it couldn’t be otherwise since the restaurant has been operating for over 50 years (since 1969). The cuisine ranges across the entire Italian peninsula (including seafood), following the rhythm of the seasons, though the standout dishes remain predominantly local and regional. In addition to the wine selection, there's also a carefully curated offerin
WebsiteA small and impeccably tended bistrot in the heart of Arona’s historic centre, a few steps from the lakeside promenade, this venue distinguishes itself through a gastronomic proposal that is both personal and firmly rooted in the territory. In the kitchen, the chef and owner leads a seasonal menu that is lively and refined, bringing genuine sensitivity to the finest local produce.Among the dishes not to be missed, the “Condividere” antipasto, a sequence of small tastes recalling the Italian tradition of the shared starter: burrata with crunchy puntarelle and anchovies, a tartlet of Russian sal
WebsiteAn elegant residence with gardens sloping down to the lake. The charming terrace, where meals are served in summer, offers superb views of the lake, while the cuisine combines the traditional and the modern, including imaginative flavours with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
WebsiteSituated in the foothills around Lake Maggiore, this welcoming restaurant has a pleasantly relaxed ambience. The chef is equally at ease with meat and fish, creating colourful modern dishes that demonstrate his individual take on contemporary Italian cuisine. Unsurprisingly, Piedmont takes centre stage, including desserts such as bonet with a traditional cake base which is then topped with dark chocolate and a crispy sphere filled with a kind of custard- cream mixture. Lighter options are also available at lunchtime.
WebsiteOverlooking the delightful Piazzetta del Popolo, this restaurant delights guests with its views of the lake and the Rocca d’Angera, which can be enjoyed from the bright, relaxing dining rooms as well as from the shaded outdoor terrace. Chef Roberta, the soul of the restaurant, describes herself as a “home-style cook” who creates authentic dishes that are unfussy and full of flavour. Her “dal fondale alla superficie” fried fish recipe (literally, “from the depths to the surface”) is a triumph of flavours and includes zander, whitefish, trout, alborella and seasonal vegetables. Front of house, C
WebsiteAn intimate and atmospheric venue, ideal for a romantic lakeside stop, where you can enjoy a relaxing break thanks to Italian and lake cuisine, sometimes reinterpreted with a more contemporary approach, but with little affectation and, instead, excellent substance. Enthusiasts will appreciate the snails with bread, butter, and parsley, accompanied by a garlic cream and seasonal mushrooms. Above all, the use of quality raw materials is fundamental.
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