Travels in Italy--Stresa (Part 1 of 2)

After visiting Sicily, the most southern part of Italy, we ventured in the opposite direction to northern Italy.  Like Sicily, Italy's northern region is an amazing place.  We saw the Alps, lakes, the Dolomites, picturesque towns and more.  The trip exceeded our expectations. 

As was the case with visiting Sicily, visiting northern Italy took us to many towns, natural wonders and historical sites. So, there will be many blog posts about our adventure in northern Italy.  The places we visited include:

• Stresa
• Lago d'Orta
• Lago Maggiore
• San Giorgio
• Valipocella
• Bolzano
• The Dolomites
• Earth Pyramids
• Portovenere
• Cinque Terre
• Lucca

Please join us on our trip through northern Italy. 

Stresa:  We began our adventure in the small town of Stresa located on Lake Maggiore, or Lago Maggiore.  Stresa, a Summer destination with many hotels, restaurants and shops, was filled with visitors enjoying a getaway. 

A view of Stresa from above

Along the lakeside, Stresa has a beautiful promenade, with trees and gardens.   We took a walk and enjoyed views of the mountains, the lake and nearby islands.    

Some random hottie in Stresa with the island named Isola Bella in the background

Some random dude in Stresa, with the Alps in the background

We stayed at the Grand Hotel Bristol, an elegant hotel on the lake. 

Grand Hotel Bristol in Stresa

The scent of Jasmine filled the air

Nice pool!

In the hotel lobby, a guest joins the two statues holding up a large bowl. 

After touring the hotel and strolling along the lake, we visited a an alpine botanical garden filled with native trees, plants and flowers.  The garden is located in the hills above Stresa, in the hamlet of Alpino. 

Altitude of 2,600 feet (s.l.m. mean meters above sea level)

Below are photos of the plants and views at Giardino Botanico Alpinia.

Heidi's house?

Fritz in the garden

Next Up:  Let's ride the gondola!