Where to stay, what to do and where to eat around Italy’s most underrated lake

BY LUCREZIA WORTHINGTON
14 May 2023

Italy is one of the most sought-after holiday destinations, with its sweeping landscapes and thriving gastronomic scene: from sipping a spritz and cicchetti by the lagoon in Venice to the much-loved scarpetta after a cacio e pepe in Rome – not to mention popping into a local bakery for some warm focaccia or cornetti for a quick pit-stop. As you head north towards Piedmont, home to the Slow Food movement, you’ll delve into a region rich in tradition and flavours that enhance the ingredients of the land. You’ll savour white truffle from Alba to fresh egg agnolotti or tajarin, a variety of alpine cheeses to freshwater fish washed down with a glass of Gavi or Barolo.

Nestled in the Northeastern corner of Piedmont, next to Lake Maggiore, is Lake Orta, one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. Lake Orta is highly underrated yet equally as compelling compared to its larger neighbour (and only an hour’s drive from Milan airport). There are plenty of cultural sites, gardens in bloom, and experiences to enjoy and breathe in this little corner of paradise during the spring/summer season. With that in mind, we’ve created an insider’s guide to Lake Orta so that you, too, can experience all this lesser-known gem has to offer.

Discover how best, and where, to discover the best of Italy off season thanks to our favourite local tastemakers.

La Darbia

La Darbia lies between the calmness of the lake and the quiet stretches of vineyards, forest and a Mediterranean garden, with the enticing backdrop of Monte Rosa. Once an agricultural settlement, La Darbia was redesigned by the owners Gian Carlo and Matteo into characteristic, rustic apartments with soft colours and all the necessary comforts of a country home. Nestled among the stone-walled structure is the restaurant with an idyllic outdoor terrace overlooking the lake. Here, Chef Matteo Monfrinotti has curated a menu that enhances the gastronomic heritage of Piedmont with an innovative flair. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste La Darbia’s own wine labels.

Address: La Darbia Resort, Via per Miasino, 28010 Vacciago NO, Italy