Take your pick. Any of northern Italy’s “lake region” lakes are not going to disappoint. Not even one of the smallest of the lot, the often-overlooked Lago di Orta.  Tiny Lake Orta lies furthest west of Italy’s famed lakes, the understudy to the grand dames of Lake Maggiore, Lugano, and Como. Like her well-known counterparts, Lake Orta is a heavenl...

Once August has passed, September has always been considered the month of restarting, of work starting again, of the new school year and the usual commitments of daily life. The summer heat subsides, making the days pleasant and ideal for exploring, while tourist crowds begin to dwindle. This period offers a perfect mix of mild climate, natural bea...