Orta San Giulio: Italy’s Medieval Lakeside Getaway
Orta San Giulio is a commune in Piedmont, Italy that is perched on the eastern side of Lake Orta. The idyllic view that it offers is already enough to make any visitor fall in love with this place. However, its charm does not stop there. The rustic walls, narrow cobbled stones, and medieval-inspired doorways all contribute to the romantic atmosphere that this city has.
Best Time to Visit
The medieval spirit of this town is complemented by the celebration of the Festival of Ancient Music every June. Another event that brings a lot of guests to Orta San Giulio accommodations is the Flower Show Market held every spring to mark the start of the season.
What to Do & Area Attractions
The Sacro Monte of Orta is the gem of this Orta San Giulio. It is a 16th-century chapel complex situated in the heart of the town’s woodland. Another must-visit structure in town is the 12th-century Basilica di San Giulio which dons a Romanesque-style exterior. If you want to experience this town’s finest, book your accommodation at the Relais & Chateaux Villa Crespi. It is a lodging option famed for its Michelin-star gourmet restaurant and stunning private garden with overlooking lake view. A more budget-friendly option that still offers a good view of this area's surroundings is the Hotel La Bussola, which is conveniently located 5 minutes from the island dock and 15 minutes away from Sacro Monte di Orta.