Sangiano

Sangiano is a small village on the Lombardy shore of Lake Maggiore, located just a few minutes’ drive from the beaches and the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso.

A five-minute drive takes you to the tourist hub of Laveno-Mombello, the departure point for ferries to Intra-Verbania, the Borromean Islands (Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori), and the magnificent villas on the Piedmontese shore of Lake Maggiore (such as Villa Taranto).

A slightly longer drive brings you to Angera, known for its famous lakeside promenade and the Rocca di Angera, which towers majestically over the area.

Just a few minutes away (or even within walking distance) lies the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso, a monastic complex built directly onto a sheer rock face overlooking the lake—undoubtedly one of the most spectacular spots on Lake Maggiore.

Alternatively, you can leave your car in the private parking area and easily travel by train to the tourist center of Luino or to the heart of Milan.

Sangiano: a strategic location for visiting Lake Maggiore

Eremo di Santa Caterina del Sasso

The Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso is a monastic complex built onto a sheer rock face overlooking the lake; it is undoubtedly one of the most evocative and fascinating places to visit during a holiday on Lake Maggiore.

It was founded by Alberto Besozzi, a wealthy local merchant who, after surviving a violent storm while crossing the lake, retired to a cave to begin a new life as a hermit, eventually becoming a symbol and a spiritual landmark.

The Hermitage of Santa Caterina can be reached by both land and water: from the forecourt, you can descend via a scenic staircase or, more conveniently, by elevator.

You can reach the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso from the holiday home in just five minutes by car or even on foot.

Rocca di Angera

The Rocca Borromea of Angera stands majestically atop a limestone spur, overlooking the town of Angera, the surrounding area, and a stretch of the lake.

Visitors can explore the interior of the fortress via a route that leads through the Historic Halls, adorned with frescoes, paintings, and original decorations that have been beautifully restored.

The atmosphere is quintessentially medieval, instantly transporting visitors back to the age of ladies and knights, a truly unique experience, further enhanced by the magnificent views of Lake Maggiore from the panoramic terraces.

The Rocca of Angera is just a 15-minute drive from the holiday home.

Isole Borromee

The Borromean Islands are one of the highlights of Lake Maggiore.

Located in the northwestern part of Lake Maggiore, directly facing the towns of Stresa and Pallanza, they are an absolute must-see attraction on the lake.

The group consists of three islands – Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori – along with a small islet known as Isolino di San Giovanni and a rocky outcrop called Scoglio della Malghera.

The islands have been owned by the Borromeo family since the 14th century.

You can reach the Borromean Islands by boat, departing from the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso or the Laveno-Mombello pier (via Intra).

In Sangiano you have everything you could possibly need!

Without needing to take the car, you can find everything you might need during your stay within a few minutes’ walk.