The Secret Day Trip: Why Lake Maggiore is Our Favourite Quiet Escape…

A short drive along empty main roads to Lake Maggiore has been our go to break for a few years now, its the antidote when we’re in need of a quiet escape at any time of year. Unspoiled by the crowds who go to Maggiore’s more famous neighbours of Lake Como & Lake Garda, its classic Italian styling and wonderful cooling waters make the perfect quick day trip.

Water taxis shuttle you to tiny island restaurants or larger boats transport you across Lake. Maggiore to Verbania or other parts of this natural beauty. Most taxis and boats go from the town of Stresa on the south west side of the island.

Getting There & Parking After exiting the motorway for the charming town of Baveno, you immediately descend to the lakeside road and navigate toward the town centre.

Insider Parking Tip: Set your navigation to Baveno Lido Beach Club. Take a left down the side street to reach a green parking area inside the entrance. Remarkably, there is almost always parking available here—a rare gem for a location this beautiful!

Book a cabana or sunbed online before arriving and soak up the lakeside vibe.

The Luxury Spot: Lido Baveno Booking a cabana at [Lido Baveno](https://lidobaveno.it/) is the ultimate luxe option and well worth the extra euros. You get a large, comfortable cabana for two with sunshades, a private table, and chairs for a lazy lakeside lunch. Table service from the Ibiza-style bar directly to your cabana completes the experience.

A cabana is the best way to enjoy lazy lakeside views.

Swimming & Boat Hire *Lake Swimming:** The water is calm, clean, and remarkably refreshing—even in the height of summer. The shore drops off at a steep slope, so while it’s great for competent swimmers, keep an eye on smaller children inside the designated buoy area. *Boat Hire:** For the adventurous, motorized boats of various sizes are available for hire right at the Lido Beach Club. You can set sail for a few hours to visit the islands or simply anchor out on the water for a private afternoon with family and friends. *Island Taxis:** Water taxis frequently shuttle guests from Stresa to tiny island restaurants, while larger ferry boats connect you across the lake to Verbania and beyond.

Experience Italy Like a Local When you stay at Number 18, insider escapes like Lake Maggiore are right on your doorstep.