PRESS RELEASE

TOURIST SEASON 2018 DISTRETTO TURISTICO DEI LAGHI, MONTI E VALLI DELL’OSSOLA

Here is the latest news about tourist events for 2018 regarding Lake Maggiore, , Lake Mergozzo, the Ossola valleys and the hills of Vergante.

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PRESS RELEASE

TOURIST SEASON 2018

DISTRETTO TURISTICO DEI LAGHI,

MONTI E VALLI DELL’OSSOLA

It’s time to kick off the 2018 tourist season for Lake Maggiore, Lake Orta, Lake Mergozzo and the Ossola Valleys!

The Borromee Islands will be accessible again starting on Friday 23 March 2018, the official starting date for the high season.

Soon, it will be time to start exploring the best of what our territory has to offer between uncontaminated nature, colours, outdoor activities, wellness, wine and food, high-quality accommodation facilities and intriguing events!

Two "Blue Flags" have been assigned already this year: Cannero and Cannobio have been recognised as coastal swimming resorts that meet the criteria of sustainable management of the territory. In addition to those, eight "Orange Flags" were assigned by Touring Club Italiano, which selects and certifies the excellent small villages in the hinterland: the award went to the localities of Cannero, Cannobio, Macugnaga, Malesco, Mergozzo, Orta

San Giulio, Santa Maria Maggiore and Vogogna.

Like every year, we expect Italian visitors and international tourists from every part of the world!

The main tourist attractions in the lakes and Cover Image: Lake mountains of the territory Maggiore, Lake Orta, Lake Mergozzo and lower Ossola valley photographed by Monte Faiè, Val Grande. Photo by Marco B. Cerini As early as Tuesday, March 13 - the day of the traditional Feast of Tredicino - the Park of the Rocca di Arona will be open. This is an architectural jewel with a breathtaking landscape where San Distretto Turistico dei Laghi, Carlo Borromeo was born. The park will be open every day until Monti e Valli dell’Ossola Via dell'Industria, 25 30 April from 10 am to 7 pm, and on Friday and Saturday it will 28924 Verbania-Fondotoce (VB) close at 9 pm. From 1 May to 15 October, it will stay open longer: Tel. +39 0323 30416 Fax +39 0323 934335 until 8 pm during the week and 10 pm on Friday and Saturday [email protected] www.distrettolaghi.it (closed Mondays, except Monday holidays). During the winter season, the Rocca is open only on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30 am to 5 pm.

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Inside the park, visitors can follow a short botanical path and

observe the animals: donkeys, Tibetan goats, ducks, geese, and pond turtles in the lake. During the season, a selection of different events will be offered

as usual, including theatre, music, street markets, days dedicated to exercise specialities, book presentations,

conferences, various kinds of exhibitions, guided tours and more (info and updates: www.parcoroccaarona.com).

We do not have to go far from the Rocca di Arona to see "San

Carlone", the huge statue dedicated to St. Carlo (35.10 meters in total) standing on the hill next to the Rocca: the monument is

already open on Sundays and public holidays from 1 to 19 March (9 am -12:30 pm and 2-4:30 pm). From 20 March to 15

October, it will be open every day from 9 am to 12:20 pm and from 2 to 6:15 pm, and on Sundays and holidays from 9 am to 6:15 pm. The winter timetable will resume from 16 October to 30

November, with the statue being open only on weekends and holidays. From 1 to 31 December, it will be open only on Sundays

and on 8 December. Among the new events in 2018: the "Passeggiata a lume di candela”: a candlelight literary walk in

the Parco della Statua in collaboration with "Il Circolo del Gotico" of the historian and writer Jennifer Radulović (date TBD).

In addition, the 4th edition of "Suoni e Colori al Colle di San Carlo” will be held, a musical evening located in the splendid

setting of the Parco della Statua (date TBD). All Arona residents will continue to enjoy free admission to the statue! Lastly,

proposals for free tours (for visitors with a regular ticket) at the monumental complex on the first Sunday of every month, from

May onwards (one tour only in the morning at 10 am, and one in the afternoon at 3 pm). Offers for guided tours for schools are available (info: www.guidelaghi.it) and for 2018, agreements

were renewed with the Consorzio Campeggi Lago Maggiore and Swiss Railways BLS (info: +39 0322 249669 and

www.statuasancarlo.it / Office of Information and Tourist Reception of Arona: +39 0322 243601).

The Giardini Botanici di Villa Taranto will be open every day, holidays included, from Thursday 15 March to Sunday 4 See our section "LAKES", about the 3 wonderful lakes: Lake Maggiore, November 2018 (March: from 9 am to 5:30pm; April through Lake Orta, Lake Mergozzo, their islands, their peculiarities. Get tips September: 8:30 am to 6:30 pm; 1st through 14th October: 9 am on what to visit, paths, hospitality and scheduled events. to 5 pm; 15th October to 4th November: from 9 am to 4:30 pm). www.distrettolaghi.it/en/laghi During the month of March, we will get to admire the first spring

Distretto Turistico dei Laghi, blossoms: edgeworthie, prunus, magnolias, forsythia, daffodils, Monti e Valli dell’Ossola tulips and a new planting of over 35,000 muscari will cover the Via dell'Industria, 25 28924 Verbania-Fondotoce (VB) meadows and flower beds. As the season progresses, visitors will Tel. +39 0323 30416 be able to admire large plots of rhododendrons and azaleas, Fax +39 0323 934335 [email protected] while during the summer months, the queen of aquatic plants, www.distrettolaghi.it the tropical water lilly Victoria Cruziana will continue to amaze tourists. In the greenhouse where this rare flower is grown, visitors can also admire a vertical garden, which will rouse interest and spawn ideas for “green” furnishings. We also have dahlias and green mazes to explore! This year, visitors will have the

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opportunity to purchase a subscription to visit the Gardens during the entire season, or throughout the entire summer. Finally, we would like to highlight our collaborations with the Swiss Railways BLS aimed at increasing foreign tourism. The following events will alternate during the opening period, weather permitting: the Mostra della Camelia (March, exhibition of camelias with guided tours), the "Settimane del Tulipano" (tulip exhibition, 8-29 April), "Colori senza Confini" (mid-

April through mid-May), "Fior d'Acqua" (June through August), "Victoria Cruziana in flower" (20 June through the end of

October) and the "Mostra delle Dahlie" (last ten days of July through the end of October). Do not forget the discounted tickets for FAI members during the “Settimane del FAI”, promotional “Turisti nella tua città” offers for residents, Anna

Flower creative spaces and “le piante in...solite” exhibitions at the greenhouse (info: www.villataranto.it).

The "Circuito Turistico Borromeo" tourist circuit is back for the 2018 season with many new initiatives.

The islands Isola Bella and Isola Madre will be open from 23 March to 21 October 2018, every day from 9 am to 5:30 pm (last entry). For 2018, we want to mention an important restoration - on Isola Madre - of the Cappella Sepolcrale built on orders from

Vitaliano IX Borromeo (1792-1874) on the site of an original oratory dating back to the 1580s. The chapel is decorated with fine art, including sculptures and paintings. Under the Venetian- style marble mosaic floor (seminato veneziano) decorated with winged hourglass motifs, the rock was dug out and covered by a vault in masonry to form the family crypt.

Another interesting restoration project was the in the “Throne Room”: a pair of Baroque cabinets (“stipi” were ceremonial furniture often used as prestigious gifts between rulers) purchased in 1784. Interesting events in 2018 include the "Events Extra Time" on Isola

Bella and Isola Madre: when the property is closed to the public, there will be “closed-door” guided tours through the Palazzo Borromeo and the Italian Gardens of the Isola Bella island, in addition to an opportunity to stroll along the paths of the 8- hectare English-style botanical park on Isola Madre, an exotic See our section "MOUNTAINS", for further information related to the trip through distant countries where certain varieties of plants Ossola Valleys, mountain peaks, their peculiarities. Get tips on what originated. At the end of the path, a pleasant aperitif will be to visit, paths, hospitality and scheduled events. served on the charming terrace of the "Noria" Tower on Isola www.distrettolaghi.it/en/montagn Bella or the panoramic terrace in front of the small church of San e

Vittore all’Isola Madre (For reservations and information, write to [email protected]. Starting this season, tickets can be Distretto Turistico dei Laghi, Monti e Valli dell’Ossola purchased online for entrances and guided tours at the link Via dell'Industria, 25 https://booking.isoleborromee.it). 28924 Verbania-Fondotoce (VB) Tel. +39 0323 30416 We continue with the Park of Villa Pallavicino, open from 23 Fax +39 0323 934335 [email protected] March to 30 September from 9 am to 5:30 pm (last entrance), www.distrettolaghi.it with park closure at 7 pm. From 1st October to 4th November, opening times will be from 9 am to 4:30 pm (last entrance), park closure at 6 pm. New educational activities are starting, and

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new wildlife is being released: today, there are more than 35

different species, a total of about 160 animals. Our list ends with the Parco del Mottarone: starting in spring 2018,

they will offer a rental service for bicycles, mountain bikes and e-bikes, which can be recharged at the columns near the Rifugio Genziana.

Below is a series of events that you won’t want to miss: on 23 March, Stresa residents have free entrance to the Villa

Pallavicino park. Also at the Villa Pallavicino park, mark your calenders for 2 April "VCO in corsa" and "Caccia al tesoro", and

come celebrate Mother’s Day on 13 May. On 27 May, Parco del Mottarone will host "A lezioni di droni”, a meeting about drones,

and on 9 June the event “Swimruncheers” will be held between the Borromean Islands and the Villa Pallavicino park. We

continue with "Bike&Grill" on 24 June at Parco del Mottarone, and in the fall at Villa Pallavicino park, we can enjoy the

chestnut festival “Castagnata” (7 October), "Foliage" (14 October) and "Halloween" (28 October).

As of this year, cologne is featured in its Italian "home": on 24 March, the grand opening of the "Casa del Profumo”, the new

museum created by the municipality of Santa Maria Maggiore, in the Vigezzo Valley, with the support of important funding and

partnerships. It is a multisensory museum that will celebrate the history - all “made in ” - of the most famous perfume in the

world. Though it is known by the place name “Cologne”, its history is decisively Italian, and this museum opens to tell the

story of this substance that originated here in the Vigezzo Valley. The exhibition area will provide an actual journey into the history

of the famous perfume: on the ground floor, visitors will find the herbs and essences used in the original recipe, an elegant info

point and shop, and a beautiful greenhouse in a garden, embellished by a small citrus orchard. On the first floor, the primary exhibition space of the museum, an interesting modern

layout created by combining innovation and history is available. The exhibition path features technological and multi-

sensorial content: 3D animations, collections of objects and original instruments used to make perfumes, precious fabrics See our section "PARKS", to discover green areas, National (there is a close connection with Vigezzo customs) and sensorial Parks and Natural and Protected paths featuring touch and smell. The Casa del Profumo will Areas of our territory. www.distrettolaghi.it/en/parchi provide the visitor with immersive laboratory activities, and the

opportunity to create their own perfume (info: www.santamariamaggiore.info).

Distretto Turistico dei Laghi, Monti e Valli dell’Ossola On Sunday 1 April, the Alpine Garden reopens (and will remain Via dell'Industria, 25 28924 Verbania-Fondotoce (VB) open until Wednesday 31 October from 9:30 am to 6 pm), This Tel. +39 0323 30416 place is a natural balcony with a view of the Mottarone, where Fax +39 0323 934335 [email protected] visitors can relax while watching the landscape surrounded by www.distrettolaghi.it nature. Tickets: € 4.00 per person - children up to age 4 free - discounted ticket € 3.50 (children 4 to 12 and groups of over 15 people, with group escorts and disabled visitors free). After the recent renovation works, the Garden is now completely accessible.

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Among the initiatives planned: "Festa della Fioritura" on 9 June with free entry from 4 pm on, guided tours for groups, refreshments and entertainment by the Gruppo Folkloristico del Mottarone. You also will not want to miss the "Festa dell’Alpino" on 9 September with a mushroom exhibition, a flea market and various other attractions (info: www.giardinobotanicoalpinia.altervista.org).

The 3 Sacri Monti of our territory, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, are acknowledged as a great artistic, cultural and spiritual asset for the entire community (info: www.sacri-monti.com). The Sacro Monte of the S.S. Trinità di Ghiffa is a special natural reserve that celebrates the Mystery - precisely - of the Most Holy Trinity. The complex has a sanctuary and three chapels . The

Portico of the Via Crucis completes the scenery of buildings with 14 frescoed spans. For a more accurate visit to the Shrine and the other monuments, accredited guides or Reserve personnel are available. At present, the Special Reserve offers walking paths, bicycle and horseback trails, challenging hiking trails, guided nature tours, accessorised picnic areas, panoramic views, the chestnut wood, an area with rocks, a wild hidden area of the Rio Ballona stream (info: www.sacromonte- ghiffa.com).

The is a monumental complex dedicated to St. Francis located on top of a hill behind the town. The site features 21 chapels placed in chronological order depicting the life of St. Francis, the “Poverello di Assisi”, one after the other along a spiral path. From the square in front of the medieval church of SS. Nicolao and Francesco, visitors can enjoy one of the most beautiful views of Lake Orta. We would like to remind you that the Reserve Management Body is offering free guided tours to promote awareness about the area. Call and reserve your tour today. You can also enjoy sack lunches in the two picnic areas located near the parking lot and the Chapel VI.

News 2018: toward the end of April, restoration will begin on Chapel XIII -"Francesco, per umiltà, si fa condurre nudo per le vie di Assisi" (Francesco, for humility, goes naked through the streets of Assisi) also called "Carnival". This is one of the most significant frescoes at the Sacro Monte. The restoration, carried Consult our site dedicated to "DEVOTIONAL PATHS", to discover out by the Superintendency Architectural and Cultural places, monuments and religious buildings through paths and Heritage, will be completed on both statues and frescoes on the thematic walks. www.camminidevozionali.it walls. Finally, we would like to remind readers that this year on Saturday 9 June, the 20th edition of the walk “Peregrinatio: a Distretto Turistico dei Laghi, piedi dal Sacro Monte di Orta al Sacro Monte di Varallo” has Monti e Valli dell’Ossola been organised. Reservations are mandatory, and must be Via dell'Industria, 25 28924 Verbania-Fondotoce (VB) received before the end of May (www.sacromonte-orta.com). Tel. +39 0323 30416 Fax +39 0323 934335 The Riserva Naturale Speciale del Sacro Monte Calvario - with [email protected] its 15 chapels - stands on the historic Matterella hill overlooking www.distrettolaghi.it the city of Domodossola, capital of the Ossola valley. This Sacro Monte complex is dedicated to Christ Crucified. Starting in March 2018, the restoration of Chapel V - "Il Cireneo” will begin.

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This chapel is in the middle of the Via Regia which leads from

Domodossola to Calvario. Next to the sacred complex, the hiking itinerary "Via dei Torchi e dei Mullini" allows visitors to admire ancient examples of rural

businesses (presses and mills). Among the initiatives for 2018, we want to highlight the cultural walk exploring the S. Monte

Calvario and the hamlets above Domodossola, scheduled for 26 May.

Lastly, we remind you that this year the Special Reserve is once again offering guided tours conducted by qualified personnel

to explore the gardens and the part of the park that is usually closed to the public, with the orchards of the Rosminian Fathers,

the remains of the Castle of Mattarella and the entire Baroque complex (www.sacromonte-domodossola.com).

Fascinating events, fun, relaxation, sports and

a rich selection of local food and wine

When winter gives way to spring, the gardens of Cannero Riviera open once again to the public so that all may enjoy the

brightness, colours and fragrances of the northernmost citrus orchard in Italy with the 11th exhibition of "Gli Agrumi di Cannero Riviera" (10-19 March 2018). Compared to past editions, there

will be more events distributed throughout a ten-day period: artistic and educational exhibitions, scientific and informative

meetings, installations made with the collaboration of famous landscapers, show cooking, guided tastings, entertainment,

workshops, music, a tea room, themed menus in restaurants, guided tours, show-market of plants, quality agri-food products,

artistic craftsmanship and even an international exhibition of postal art….. Lots of things to do, all designed to satisfy the

curiosity and needs of all visitors! Authentic cultural wealth that, starting in 2016, is also protected by a "production disciplinary" to guarantee and protect the quality of plants and fruit of the

territory. The 2018 edition marks the beginning of a new series, See our section "EVENTS", with the which will feature a thematic study on a different species or list of daily and monthly events, also divided by type and territory, variety every year. The first "star" in the spotlight will be the the with suggestions on where to stay. www.distrettolaghi.it/en/eventi reflectors will be citron (Citrus medica), one of the three species considered to be the ancestor of the array of citrus fruits that we

all know so well (info and updates: www.cannero.it and www.agrumidicannero.altervista.org). Distretto Turistico dei Laghi, Monti e Valli dell’Ossola Via dell'Industria, 25 Coming up on 24 and 25 March, the "Mostra della Camelia" of 28924 Verbania-Fondotoce (VB) Tel. +39 0323 30416 Verbania will for the 52nd edition. This plant of Asian origin has Fax +39 0323 934335 been cultivated precisely in this corner of for almost [email protected] www.distrettolaghi.it 200 years, due to ideal conditions of climate and soil. Thus it has become a product of excellence in European floriculture. Producers of the Consorzio Fiori Lago Maggiore, along with collectors and enthusiasts, will set up the noble floor at Villa

Giulia, an elegant late-19th century residence, for an exhibition

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of 300 varieties of camellias cultivated on the territory. The camelias are also on display in their natural habitat: thanks to the availability of owners and curators of the most important collections, guided tours will be organized by the Municipality of

Verbania with experts from the botanical gardens and private gardens that raise ancient and rare varieties. Reservations are mandatory for guided tours (Tourist Office: +39 0323 503249). Do not miss the appointments with experts to present new ideas and projects, the show-market, sales points with floral themed products, exhibitions and initiatives for children (info and updates: www.lagomaggiorefiori.it).

The city of Gozzano (NO) also proposes its own traditional "Mostra della Camelia". This year will be the 32nd edition! It will take place on 7 and 8 April in the prestigious frescoed halls of the municipal rooms at Palazzo Ferrari Ardicini and in its park. The exhibition will be divided into three sections: "Fiori recisi" (cuts of camellia varieties from some of the most beautiful parks on Lake Orta and Lake Maggiore), "Composizioni" (compositions of camellias with other spring flowers, open to everyone) and "Piante in vaso" (floral stands of potted plants set up by nurseries). During this exhibition on Sunday only, the event "Street food & Birre artigianali" (featuring street food and craft beer) will take place. They have also organised a bicycle ride and market, “Il giardino delle delizie”, with food and gardening products on sale and display (www.comune.gozzano.no.it for info).

We remain on the subject of nature and flowers, and announce the 4th edition of "Trifolia" - an exhibition and market of unusual plants and flowers - will take place this year in the splendid location of the lakeside gardens in Arona on 15 and 16 September. The combination of water, flowers and design is both the theme and meaning given to the event by the Pro Loco Arona Tourist Office, creator and organizer of this beautiful market. Every year, Trifolia is enriched with interesting new aspects: exhibitions of landscape architects, excellent floral themed 0-km food and wine, the latest "wedding" trends, workshops, demonstrations, musical events and themed aperitifs (info: www.trifolia.it). See our section "PLACES", with the list of all the tourist attractions of the territory - naturalistic, artistic, devotional and much more - Musical fireworks shows are back to light up our summer! divided by territory. www.distrettolaghi.it/en/prodotti_t Summer 2018 will feature the return of long awaited successful uristici fireworks set to music: every year, the “Festival di Fuochi d’Artificio” amazes and entertains numerous Italian and Distretto Turistico dei Laghi, international audiences. As usual, performances will be in lovely Monti e Valli dell’Ossola Via dell'Industria, 25 natural locations near lakes and in the mountains. Annually, 28924 Verbania-Fondotoce (VB) more than 300.000 people come to this festival (Info and Tel. +39 0323 30416 Fax +39 0323 934335 updates about the calendar on www.distrettolaghi.it). [email protected] www.distrettolaghi.it

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The musical fireworks review “Vette d’Artificio” has been

confirmed for 2018. The 4th edition will take place in July and August (info and updates: www.vettedartificio.it).

Traditional summer music festivals already

confirmed:

The Stresa Festival, one of the most important international classical music festivals, will be back in 2018 with a new series of

interesting events unfolding on the shores of Lake Maggiore and nearby: the first series of 11 concerts will be held July 14-27, and

the second 16 evenings are scheduled from 23 August to 9 September. Maestro Gianandrea Noseda, who has directed

the festival for 19 years, guaranteeing quality programming, has renewed the formula of the Festival: all 27 concerts in 2018 have the title “Paths crossing”, paths interwoven in a mix of several

disciplines and occasions for encounters between the public and different artistic languages. Also in this new edition, Italian

and foreign symphonic orchestras and ensembles and soloists of international prestige will be the cornerstone of the exhibition,

and maintain its reputation as a festival dedicated to classical music. The jazz concerts must also be counted. They were

introduced seven years ago, and are always high quality entertainment, thanks to the presence of illustrious artists and

groups that have made the history of this musical genre. As we have seen over the years in planning this festival, having various

musical genres in the same artistic presentation is a source of enrichment in form and content: this year, the Festival will also

feature contemporary dance, performances with a strong theatrical component, dialogues with writers and concert lectures, theme evenings of music based on historical figures,

world premiere presentations, performances on the Borromean Islands and an evening dedicated to the Accademia di Canto

with a student recital. In addition, we would like to mention films relating to black and white silent films, electronic “animations” of works of art from the 20th century and virtual choreography. See our section "WEBCAMS", with the network of over 20 active The evenings take place in Stresa, Verbania, the Borromean webcams in the territory, showing lakes and mountains, and “live” Islands or the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso in Leggiuno scenic images in high definition. (VA). Prices differ for the evenings and types of subscriptions are www.distrettolaghi.it/cam available to help the public decide and involve people in

multiple events, also thanks to special formulas. The novelty of Distretto Turistico dei Laghi, 2018 is represented by grouping a good part of the Monti e Valli dell’Ossola Via dell'Industria, 25 performances into thematic subscriptions, so that people can 28924 Verbania-Fondotoce (VB) choose concerts not only in relation to location, but also in Tel. +39 0323 30416 Fax +39 0323 934335 relation to a particular topic. Special prices continue to be [email protected] www.distrettolaghi.it available for people under the age of 26 (Under 26 Formula): € 10 per person with the formula Music-P@ss and € 5 per person for groups of 4 friends with the formula Company-P@ss (info: www.stresafestival.eu).

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Among the many musical events, we remind you also of

"Musica in Quota 2018", excursions and free live concerts in evocative Alpine settings in northern Piedmont. You will see a variety of different landscapes: from the green meadows overlooking Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta to shelters located among the peaks of the Lepontine Alps. Check Facebook for appointments from June to September (info: www.facebook.com/musicainquota).

Back for the 4th consecutive year, the festival of Baroque music

"Di Parola in Musica", organised by the Orchestra Zebo (an ecological orchestra that makes the compensatory reforestation its ethical strong point. They use the myclimate.org foundation to calculate the environmental impact of CO2 emissions for each event, and then have trees planted to expand protected natural parks). The Municipalities of our bank of Lake Maggiore "network" once again to offer visitors and residents a new formula that they can use to appreciate music through narrative concerts and traditional concerts. A true musical performance in story-telling format. The concerts (5 narrative and 4 chamber concerts) will take place in the municipalities of Verbania, Baveno, Stresa, Belgirate and Meina during the summer months. Admission is free on all evenings.

Concerts start at 9pm (info: www.orchestrazebo.com).

The year 2018 marks a turning point for the review "Un Paese a Sei Corde", which for the 13th time will fill up the towns between

Lake Orta and Lake Maggiore with guitars and excellent music from 16 June to 16 September. New for 2018: the proposal of a space for classical guitar performance and teaching with "Guitar Master", a series of events featuring international artists who also provide the opportunity to participate in the master class in (NO) at the end of July (info: www.unpaeseaseicorde.it).

We continue with the 13th International Organ Festival “Sonata Organi” at the collegiate church of Santa Maria di Arona, at 9:15 pm with free admission (Saturday 9, 16, 23 and 30 June), the

Amenoblues on the hills of Lake Orta (14th edition) 6, 7 and 8 July, the 22nd Ossola Guitar Festival (over 50 international See our section "ACCOMMODATION", with our musicians in 15 concerts with free entrance from 16 July to 6 over 860 accommodations divided by type and category, August), Nextones (20-21 July) which anticipates Tones on the contacts and useful information to select the best accommodations Stones (from 26 to 28 July) and its performances in the historical for your holidays. quarries of the territory, the highly successful Arona Music www.distrettolaghi.it/en/ospitalita

Festival on 24, 25 and 26 July and the 18th Classic Jazz Festival (Villa Nigra, 5-6 and 7 August): Day 5 will feature one of Distretto Turistico dei Laghi, the greatest Italian jazz musicians, Lino Patruno, and his band. Monti e Valli dell’Ossola Day 6 will be devoted to the great female voices of jazz, with Via dell'Industria, 25 28924 Verbania-Fondotoce (VB) Paola Folli and Deborah Falanga. On the last evening, Paul Tel. +39 0323 30416 Fax +39 0323 934335 Tomelleri will be on stage with his quintet, another piece of [email protected] Italian jazz history. Finally, in , several events have www.distrettolaghi.it been scheduled, including “Orta Jazz” (June), “Orta Festival” (from 6 to 27 July) and the “Concerti di Mezzogiorno” (August).

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Cultural and Literary Events:

For the 4th consecutive year, the prestigious theatrical review "Lakescapes - Teatro diffuso del lago” is back: 23 events are

scheduled in 6 different cities in 2018, from February to December! The municipalities of Meina, Lesa, Stresa, Baveno,

Castelletto Sopra Ticino and Dormelletto - together with the music-theatre company "Accademia dei Folli" - are once again

natural stages for shows, concerts, white nights and wonderful itinerant comedy. The calendar of events includes everything

from music to theatre to food and wine, and every appointment was created to be a moment that goes beyond entertainment. This project consists of a series of converging elements - visiting

a corner of the city through a theatrical performance, a show with a tasting, or a musical walk: in this way, event becomes an

experience that involves the spectator completely by activating all five senses (info: www.accademiadeifolli.com).

The Fabbrica di Carta, on the calendar from 20 April to 1 May

2018 at the Centro Culturale La Fabbrica in Villadossola, celebrates its 21st edition devoted entirely to the mystery

literature genre. The Salone del Libro of authors and publishers of the Verbano Cusio Ossola area is one of the most successful

cultural events of the entire season. This book fair is a fundamental point of reference in the territory’s cultural sphere

(info: www.facebook.com/fabbricadicarta).

Santa Maria Maggiore in the Vigezzo Valley will host, for the 6th

consecutive year, "Sentieri e pensieri", the summer festival born under the aegis of the Turin International Book Fair and under

the artistic direction of Bruno Gambarotta. Also this summer, many authors, artists and exponents of Italian culture will take

the stage in the living room of Piazza Risorgimento, thus forming a rich calendar of meetings with leading figures in literature, culture, sport and entertainment. Events from 20 to 25 August

(info and details: www.santamariamaggiore.info).

Discover the section "LAGHI E MONTI TODAY". Available to The Festival "Teatro sull’Acqua" 2018, this year in its 8th edition, journalists, tour operators, hotel and hospitality operators: our will take place from 5 to 9 September in Arona with a full weekly newsletter in Italian and calendar of events and entertainment: performances of street English containing the main events of the week! artists every day, in Piazza del Popolo and throughout the city, www.distrettolaghi.it/today www.distrettolaghi.it/user/register to bring citizens closer and lead them them toward the more interesting places of cultural, artistic and tourist interest. Distretto Turistico dei Laghi, Monti e Valli dell’Ossola Monologues and dialogues at the beautiful Villa Ponti, Via dell'Industria, 25 preceded by exclusive cocktails, a small review of "Teatro Off", 28924 Verbania-Fondotoce (VB) Tel. +39 0323 30416 young companies who perform in the morning, theatre and Fax +39 0323 934335 [email protected] dance theatre in the Sala Polivalente San Carlo room www.distrettolaghi.it (reopened recently) and in unusual places. The event "Teatro à la carte" is confirmed for bars and restaurants, theatrical guided tours and a course in storytelling for parents, grandparents,

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uncles or anyone who wants to learn tell a story. Finally, a double appointment with meetings with authors in Piazza San Graziano every day, and the daily theatrical production on water that this year will feature a co-production with the Teatro Coccia of

Novara. Like every year, the waters in front of the Porto Antico (ancient port) of Arona will be the natural stage of the main show. The artistic direction of the event has been entrusted to Italian writer and playwright Dacia Maraini (info: www.teatrosullacqua.it).

The 2nd second edition of "Domosofia" will take place from 20 to 23 September. A festival designed to favour cultural dissemination and the pleasure to share numerous proposals hosted in the welcoming setting of the historic centre of

Domodossola, in various places in the city indoors and outdoors. This year’s programme also features interesting events: conferences, meetings with authors, artistic performances, workshops, and musical and theatrical events. The conversational style will encourage contact with the public, and organisers have tried to offer proposals for people of all ages - children and adults. The central theme - this year also - seeks to integrate and interpret the historical context in which we live. All events will be free of charge (info: www.prodomodossola.it).

Another event that is back this summer is the “Festival Lago

Maggiore LetterAltura”. The 12th edition will be held from Thursday 27 to Sunday 30 September 2018. The different events

(meetings with authors, shows, exhibitions, entertainment for children and teenagers, stands and bookshops) will be set up in

Verbania, in different locations, but mainly at the event centre Centro Eventi "Il Maggiore". The 2018 Festival will be based on two main themes: "water" in its different forms - between the lake and the mountains - and the "boat" as a means of transport, travel and adventure (info: www.letteraltura.it).

Another interesting event is the Festival Rodari di Letteratura per Ragazzi, organised by the town of to honour its citizen

Gianni Rodari, to make sure that his message is always alive and present. From 18 to 28 October 2018, the city will be transformed Discover our "YOU TUBE CHANNEL"! A virtual trip through emotional into a "workshop town", where international writers and artists videos showing the lakes, parks and mountains, ski resorts, festivals can interact with local artists and creatives to produce projects and events of all kinds! www.youtube.com and performances under the banner of creativity, sharing and conviviality. The festival will also feature the awards ceremony Distretto Turistico dei Laghi, for the "Premio Rodari" in its different sections: illustrated albums, Monti e Valli dell’Ossola fairy tales and nursery rhymes, theatrical performances and Via dell'Industria, 25 28924 Verbania-Fondotoce (VB) video-fairy tales (info: www.comune.omegna.vb.it). Tel. +39 0323 30416 Fax +39 0323 934335 [email protected] Finally, the CROSS Festival, dedicated to the new languages of www.distrettolaghi.it the Performing Arts (circus, street arts, installations, interactive performances, video art, music): the Festival, organized by LIS LAB and dedicated to the performing arts and the territory, will take place from 27 May to 1 July in the cities of Verbania and

Cannobio. This 2018 edition will be extraordinary. In addition to 12

enriching the cities’ cultural offers as a whole, it also will be a

great opportunity for young people, for the public and for the artists. CROSS Festival is also a project aimed at bringing value to the territory. It uses naturalistic places and architectural

features to create innovative paths and artistic interventions that are often designed ad hoc for the public (info:

www.crossaward.com).

Many events featuring food, wine, folklore and

traditions - especially local traditions typical of Ossola

mountain areas - will be available from spring until late

autumn.

Among the many events confirmed: the 4th edition of "Castello

delle Sorprese" will take place this year at the Castello dal Pozzo in Oleggio Castello (NO), on Easter Monday (April 2) and

Sundays 8, 15, 22 and Wednesday 25 April! The wonderful location overlooking Lake Maggiore, with a 15K square meter

park, will host the great event for children and families who are expected to come from the province of Vercelli - where they

held the first 3 editions - to Lake Maggiore. This event welcomes thousands of visitors when tourist season opens, also with the

possibility of dining the Castle Hall of Armour and staying the night: a fascinating experience for all ages. A rich programme

of events is planned for the children. When the Castle is open for tours and entertainment, with the performance “La

Principessa ribelle e la dinastia della spada” (The rebel princess and the dynasty of the sword), there will be popular animated films, actors, musicals, 60 seats with games of old, horse-drawn

carriage rides in the large park, artists and historical pageants (info and booking: www.castellodellesorprese.it -

[email protected] - tel. +39 0323 497349, Monday through Friday from 9 am to 12 noon). Also at Oleggio Castello, visitors can once again enjoy "Natura

Follow us on our “FACEBOOK in Festa" (29 April), a day dedicated to families in which nature PAGE”! Updated daily, with events in real time, the most beautiful is celebrated with lots of initiatives to get to know the images with promotions, offers environment and the territory, strolling among the flea markets, and news of the territory! www.facebook/distrettolaghi listening to concerts, participating in walks, playing and

practising sports with experts. We continue with the inevitable gastronomic walk of 1st May to Distretto Turistico dei Laghi, Monti e Valli dell’Ossola Ornavasso with "La vita tra Leponti e Walser" (right after the Via dell'Industria, 25 Celtic festival on 30 April), the 14th medieval commemoration 28924 Verbania-Fondotoce (VB) Tel. +39 0323 30416 "Terre d'Agogna" in (8, 9 and 10 June), and Fax +39 0323 934335 [email protected] the 32nd Fiera of San Bernardo with the 18th Extemporary www.distrettolaghi.it Sculpture contest on wood in Macugnaga, with about 60

exhibitors (6-7-8 July), “Sapori di lago" (13th edition) in Baveno (24-25-26-31 august and 1 and 2 September) and the 25th "Sagra della Patata" of Montecrestese (24-25-26 and 27 August).

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Then, the Vigezzo Valley, from 31 August to 3 September, will be hosting the 37th International Gathering of the Chimney Sweep, one of the historical events of Piedmont: this is without doubt one of the best known traditional events in northern Italy, a real tribute to the Vigezzo Valley, cradle of the craft of the chimney sweep (info: www.santamariamaggiore.info).

Speaking of festivals, we continue with the already confirmed

"Sagra del Mirtillo” in Bognanco (blueberry festival, September), the 93rd "Festa dell’Uva" in Masera (grape festival, 6-10

September), the 34th "Sagra del Fungo" in Trontano (mushroom festival, 14-15-16 September), "Sapori in Festa" (30 September) in

Oleggio Castello (event aimed at valorising local resources and allowing a broader public to learn about and tradition, flavours and pleasures of the territory), the “Sagra del Cinghiale" in Migiandone (wild boar festival, 7 October) and the 11th "Mostra Pomologica" of Villadossola (fruit exhibition, 21 October). In

Nebbiuno, they are holding the "Sagra della Fragola" on 2-3 June (the festival celebrates the strawberry in all its culinary aspects), the 13th edition of the "Sagra della Transumanza" on 21 October (celebrating the return of the cattle from the summer pastures, with a market, folklore and various forms of entertainment) and the "Sagra della Zucca" in Omegna

(pumpkin festival, 27-28 October).

There will also be pre-Christmas and Christmas themed events. Baveno will be hosting - on Sunday 11 November - their popular biennial conference "Un salto nel passato" (14th edition), the re- enactment of ancient trades that transforms the historical centre of Baveno into an ancient village of the 17th and 18th centuries, with games and demonstrations. This event has become a prominent appointment in our territory, with over

25,000 people attending the last edition, who also came from neighbouring provinces and beyond (info and details: www.unsaltonelpassato.info).

Do not miss the 9th edition of "Il Parco e la Grotta di Babbo

Natale": a wonderful trip into the Christmas spirit. During all weekends and holidays from 17 November to 28 December, Discover the section "EBOOK"! Our virtual library of all our brochures in Ornavasso will host one of the largest Christmas events in Italy: a most languages, viewable, printable and downloadable for wonderful holiday trip through the old quarry of the Duomo of all subscribers (free of charge) to our site. Milan, 200 meters below ground and 20 thousand square meters www.distrettolaghi.it/ebook of park. A parade features with Santa Claus and real reindeer, hundreds of shows, musicals, 600 square meters of the nativity scene, plus entertainment and refreshment areas. Among the Distretto Turistico dei Laghi, Monti e Valli dell’Ossola news, the "Cava dei Twergi" is opening and there is a new Via dell'Industria, 25 28924 Verbania-Fondotoce (VB) underground route with the mine train (info and reservations on Tel. +39 0323 30416 the website www.grottadibabbonatale.it - Fax +39 0323 934335 [email protected] [email protected] - tel. +39 0323 497349 Monday www.distrettolaghi.it through Friday from 9 am to noon). In addition to a day trip, a rich selection of weekend packages is available with proposals for activities and stays by the Lakes

Maggiore, Orta and Mergozzo and even Monte Rosa, where 14

the same organization presents 2nd edition of "Regina dei

Ghiacchi" of Macugnaga: from 17 November to 15 December, during weekends and holidays, an exciting Christmas event centring around Monte Rosa, its traditions and its culture is

scheduled. The enchanting alpine resort earned the“orange flag” from Italian Touring Club for typicality and environmental

quality. A trip for the whole family filled with memorable experiences: the gold mine, the ancient trades of the Walser

House, and the secrets of the ancient village, to explore by lantern light, and the meeting-show with the Queen of the

Glaciers, with ascent by cableway to 1700 meters to Alpe Bill. The weekend formula allows you to stay at the foot of Monte

Rosa and discover the flavours of the Walser cuisine, or in combination with the Grotta di Babbo Natale in Ornavasso,

visitors can take a unique journey through the Christmas season from Lake Maggiore to Monte Rosa (Information and reservations on the website www.grottadibabbonatale.it -

[email protected] - tel. +39 0323 497349, Monday through Friday from 9 am to noon).

Announcing an innovative and challenging even for

the sporting competitions:

The high-adrenaline circuit of 14 races is back covering a total

of approximately 800km throughout the entire territory, for a total altitude difference of approximately 40 thousand meters:

the VCO Top Race will take place from April to November 2018 with the following appointments: Ossola Trail (Mergozzo, 8

April), Orna Trail (Ornavasso, 22 April), Trail del Motty (Armeno, 5-6 May), Valle Intrasca Sky Race in pairs (Verbania Intra, 3 June), Gran Bücc Race (Trasquera, 17 June), Stràgranda

Monterosa (Anzasca Valley, 24 June), BUT (Formazza and Valle Antigorio, 14 July), Val Brevettola Sky Race (Montescheno, 22

July), Mozzafiato Trail (Cannobio, 5 August), Rampigada (San Domenico, 26 August), the International Veia Sky Race (Val Bognanco, 7-9 September), Lake Maggiore Zip Line Trail (Alpe Discover the section "OUTDOOR", to explore the territory through Segletta di Aurano, 16 September), Trail del Calvario itineraries for professionals and amateurs, on foot, by bicycle, on (Domodossola, 7 October), Vibram Ultra Trail Lago d’Orta horseback and divided according (Omegna, 19-21 October). to themes, difficulty, seasonality and area of interest. Moreover, on 10 November the VCO Top Race Urban Trail - Gala www.distrettolaghi.it/en/percorsi will be held at the Aquadventure Park Lake Maggiore in Baveno (VB). This last race is not valid for the final ranking (all info: Distretto Turistico dei Laghi, Monti e Valli dell’Ossola www.vcotoprace.it). Via dell'Industria, 25 28924 Verbania-Fondotoce (VB) Tel. +39 0323 30416 Let us move on to the section: snow. Coming up on Saturday Fax +39 0323 934335 [email protected] 31 March and Sunday 1 April in Macugnaga, "Rosa Ski Raid www.distrettolaghi.it 2018", a skitouring race under the most beautiful slope of Monte Rosa. The competition is part of the Italian-Swiss circuit of the International Ski Tour 2018, and implements a single championship network in the valleys attended by a large

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"family" of friends who love ski mountaineering and the mountain areas of Piedmont and the Canton of Valais (info: www.rosaskiraid.it).

Also in 2018, Lake Maggiore is the destination of thousands of runners who enhance the territory through sports, especially through marathons: two important races are scheduled for this year, the NEXIA AUDIREVI Lake Maggiore Half Marathon

(Sunday, 15 April) and the SPORTWAY Lake Maggiore Marathon (Sunday, 4 November). Through their past editions, both have earned the title of "the most panoramic races in Italy". The Piedmontese coastal path on Lake Maggiore, where the both races are held, is a fairytale landscape, which will help participants forget their fatigue.

Great news for 2018! The 1st "Monterosa EST Himalayan Trail" will be held in Macugnaga (VB) of the weekend of 27-29 July, and competitions will be on Sunday 29 July 2018. Another big change in the world of Italian trail, with paths winding between Italy and Switzerland under the single European Himalayan wall, the east wall of the Monterosa, which rises 2600 meters straight up, and is also the highest wall of Europe. Distances: 60Km,

25Km, Relay 35Km + 25Km (info: www.LMHM.it and www.lagomaggioremarathon.it and www.MEHT.it).

Let’s now forget the numerous competitions and sports demonstrations that are held every year, with organisers choosing our territory as an ideal place because of the variety of locations and the beautiful landscape: Triathlons, swim crossings, acrobatic paragliding, climbing, rally races, on-road bike races, mountain biking, canyoning competitions, sailboat regattas and much more.

We would also like to remember the many other

leisure opportunities: cruises and itineraries on the lakes, breathtaking cableway climbs,

Discover our "CITY MAPS”, the sightseeing tours aboard the "Train of the maps of our cities with information about attractions and points of interest, useful services to tourists and presentations in 4 languages Centovalli" and paths between Italy and of the location! www.distrettolaghi.it/citymap

Switzerland with special discounts. Distretto Turistico dei Laghi, Monti e Valli dell’Ossola Via dell'Industria, 25 28924 Verbania-Fondotoce (VB) From Sunday 25 to Sunday 14 October 2018, the Isole Borromeo, Tel. +39 0323 30416 the Eremo di Santa Caterina del Sasso (VA), the Botanical Fax +39 0323 934335 [email protected] Gardens of Villa Taranto and the most important lake locations www.distrettolaghi.it can be reached by boats from Navigazione Lago Maggiore. Some of the most appreciated trips are the "Lago Maggiore Express", which offers an unforgettable tour with "Navigazione Lago Maggiore” boats, with the mountain railway "Vigezzina - 16 Centovalli" and with "Trenitalia” trains: visitors will cross Lake

Maggiore by boat, all of the Swiss Centovalli area and the

Vigezzo Valley on the panoramic train, and then arrive at Domodossola where they will return from the place of departure with the Trenitalia trains. There are many points of departure for

the tour, and tickets are valid for one or two days. Confirmed also for this season: all connections, by motorboat or hydrofoil,

between Italy and Switzerland and the specific runs on the days of the renowned Luino market (VA) and for Sunday market in

Cannobio. On the occasion of firework displays, the classic evening cruises will be offered to allow visitors to watch the

fireworks from the lake. Tourists sailing on the lake in boats will have the possibility to have lunch or dinner on board with the

tourist menu for both adults and children (fares, timetables, cruises, rental prices and news are available on the official site

www.navigazionelaghi.it, all info available at the toll-free number: 800.551801).

Navigation service on Lake Maggiore is also offered by Motoscafisti dei Consorzi Privati, comfortable high-quality travel

characterized by flexibility of the fleet and attention to the needs of customers with a large number of boats available. The

motorboats guide customers to explore wonderful and unique landscapes of Borromeo Islands - Isola Bella, Isola Madre and

Isola Pescatori - The Castles of Cannero or the Lombard shore of the lake up to the Brissago Islands in the nearby river basin of

Switzerland. All boats are modern and equipped with every comfort, responding to the needs of small and large groups.

Boats can also be rented for individual tours, weddings, conventions, special events and business events.

Now, let’s move geographically to remember that the entire Lake Orta is served by the Navigazione Lago d'Orta with daily

lines (from 31 March to 7 October, daily service on the entire lake, Omegna included, with frequent departures) at fixed

times (fares, timetables, cruises, proposals and news on the official site www.navigazionelagodorta.it). Anticipating the opening of the season, we also inform you that navigation will

start on Sundays in March between Pella - San Giulio Island - Discover the section "MEDIA Orta San Giulio. The daily ticket allowing travel at any time will ROOM"! For journalists and tour operators: a Press Kit, Press cost € 8.90 and can also be purchased online. Finally, we Releases, image and video galleries, B2B participations, reconfirm the evening cruises provided on the occasion of the Educational Tours and much more! Find out about our activities Omegna Fireworks Festival. to promote tourism in the territory! www.distrettolaghi.it/en/media- room The Island of San Giulio (service unchanged, active every day

Distretto Turistico dei Laghi, with Shuttles every 15 minutes) and areas surrounding Orta will Monti e Valli dell’Ossola always be reachable also by motorboats from Lake Orta of the Via dell'Industria, 25 28924 Verbania-Fondotoce (VB) Consorzio Navigazione Servizio Pubblico di Orta San Giulio Tel. +39 0323 30416 (fares, timetables, cruises, proposals and news on the official site Fax +39 0323 934335 [email protected] www.navigazioneorta.it) that accompanies all visitors in search www.distrettolaghi.it of evocative, meditative landscapes, like the beautiful Basilica of San Giulio. For the celebrations of San Vito in Omegna - like every year, visitors can make reservations to view the fireworks

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from the lake, on board a boat. During the high tourist season, lastly, 30-minute cruises will be organised to admire the antique villas overlooking the lake of the peninsula of Orta San Giulio, the centre of the lake, with a final stop on the Island of San Giulio to visit the Basilica. bordo delle imbarcazioni.

Have you ever tried the thrill of a "virtual dip" in a panoramic Lake Maggiore? You can have this experience on the

Cableway of Mottarone that connects Stresa-Alpino-Mottarone, approximately a 20-minute journey up to an altitude of 1,491 meters to enjoy a wonderful panorama over the seven lakes, the immense Po Valley Plain and the wonderful circle of the

Italian and Swiss Alps with Monte Rosa (mt. 4,463). A bit of history: the idea of building a cableway to connect

Stresa and the top of Mottarone dates back to the 1960s, when the company manager of the Mottarone railroad began thinking of replacing the slow, old train - dated 1911 - with a new, more functional system, faster and with greater hourly capacity. So it was that in the second half of 1963, they started work to dismantle the famous Mottarone railroad. The work and tests ended with the grand opening on 1 August 1970!

Today, this cableway is one of the most important in the area, bringing pedestrians, cyclists, and skiers to one of the most beautiful peaks in Piedmont (open every day, first run: 9:30 am - last run: 6 pm, new schedule effective from 23 March to 4

November, info and detailed timetables: www.funiviadelmottarone.com).

For the upcoming 2018 tourist season, Distretto Turistico dei Laghi has partnered with BLS AG, one of the main public transport companies in Switzerland whose core business is railway traffic with coverage of 420 km of territory on the rail. Therefore, an interesting promotional plan has been set up, specifically intended for our territory and the main stakeholders of the tourism sector. This plan is linked to the Sempione vehicle transport service (Brig - Iselle) that BLS has recently begun to manage after taking over the previous management from Swiss

Federal Railways. With the acquisition of Sempione vehicle transport, BLS will be able to take full advantage of existing Discover our website "NEVEAZZURRA" to discover all the synergies, thanks to the now consolidated management of promotions, offers and events of our ski resorts, outdoor summer vehicle transport by Loetschberg (Kandersteg and Goppenstein proposals, webcams, the updated snow and weather reports and the Kandersteg Iselle routes) and passenger transport "Trenino dedicated Facebook page. Verde delle Alpi" (Bern - Brig - Domodossola line), reaching a www.neveazzurra.it total traffic of 1.36 million vehicles transported annually. Vehicle transport on BLS railways constitutes the fastest way from Distretto Turistico dei Laghi, Monti e Valli dell’Ossola Switzerland to Italy by car and represents a solution without Via dell'Industria, 25 28924 Verbania-Fondotoce (VB) queues nor stress for southward travel, in addition to being an Tel. +39 0323 30416 environmentally friendly alternative to get your vehicle over Fax +39 0323 934335 [email protected] Alpine passes. The partnership between Distretto and BLS www.distrettolaghi.it provides both the visibility of the territory and its main attractions in 4 languages on the official site of the railways, bls.ch/sempione. The service will be on the landing page of bls.ch for the entire high season 2018 of offers from local 18

operators that, together with the Distretto, have adhered to the

plan. Whoever buys a BLS train ticket for the Brig-Iselle shuttle online, can take advantage of a discount on the admission price of a tourist attraction, or to a means of transport in the

Distretto Turistico dei Laghi Monti e Valli. To obtain the discount, just show the relative voucher together with the railway ticket

once you arrive at the attraction of your choice. Local tourist operators who adhere to the program, area the Colosso di San

Carlo Borromeo, the Villa Pallavicino Park, the Rocca di Angera, the Borromean Islands, the cableway of Mottarone, the Alpinia

Botanical Gardens and the Premia Terme Spa. The purpose of the promotional plan is to promote our excellent tourist

attractions in Switzerland and encourage tourists to come from Valais and the Bernese Highlands with their own cars to stay for

one or more days (info: www.bls.ch/Simplon).

We will now move on to one of the best loved Europe railways, which kicks off 2018 by focusing increasingly on international traffic and tourism: the Vigezzina-Centovalli is the panoramic

railway line that runs through the beautiful landscapes of the Val Vigezzo and Centovalli and, every year, welcomes hundreds of

thousands of passengers. Since 2015, it bears the Certificate of Excellence of Tripadvisor,

and in 2018, it confirms two of the most popular proposals, loved by Italian and foreigner travellers: the Lago Maggiore Express

and the Treno del Foliage. The first is a ring tour that allows visitors to discover the changing

landscapes of the lakes and mountains. Every year, it attracts up to 50,000 passengers arriving from every corner of the world.

The Treno del Foliage has become an authentic "tourist phenomenon" over the past two years. It is a special trip into autumn colours, scheduled between October and November,

seasons that were little appreciated until a few years ago, and has now become a "must" for nature lovers and enthusiasts of

fall colours. “Free movement” tickets will be available again for "Vigezzina no limits" and the special tickets for large events (International

Chimney Sweep Convention and Christmas markets in Santa Consult the "CONTACTS” section Maria Maggiore and Domodossola). for an informative discussion directly with our 23 Tourist offices Also confirmed, the international partnership with the Swiss scattered throughout the territory, for information, details and company (BLS Bern-Lötschberg-Simplon), with which they have planning routes. www.distrettolaghi.it/contact created integrated transportation proposals from Berne and from Canton Valais to Domodossola, and from there up to the

Canton Ticino, arriving at the Swiss end of the Centovalli line, Distretto Turistico dei Laghi, Locarno (info: www.vigezzinacentovalli.com). Monti e Valli dell’Ossola Via dell'Industria, 25 28924 Verbania-Fondotoce (VB) Tel. +39 0323 30416 Fax +39 0323 934335 [email protected] www.distrettolaghi.it

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There is more: water sports, golf and spas

immersed in beautiful scenery, and scenic

walks for everyone around the lakes, or to

explore the most beautiful valleys.

For the more adventurous, there is the unmissable opportunity to experience moments of pure fun in contact with nature: on the shores of Lake Maggiore, do not miss the Aquadventure Park of Baveno: 360 days a year of fun, sport, wellness & relaxation ... even in case of rain! Among the new activities at Aquadventure

Park 2018, there is a rock wall up to 12 meters in height, falconry shows and children’s workshops, a 5-man football pitch with night lighting, a beach with sea sand with 200 seats and beach umbrellas and a kiosk! Among the many events confirmed: “Trail del 2 Laghi & Motty Kids Triathlon” on 5 May, “Tornei Multisport” on 9 June, “Jeux Sans Frontières” on 14 July, and the Halloween

Party on 31 October (info and updates: www.lagomaggioreadventure.com).

There is something for everyone, from Safari Park in Pombia (NO) to climbing to the top of the Mottarone and having fun at Alpyland, the bobsleigh track on rail that runs in both in summer and in winter. People who want to try the experience of flying at 350 meters above the ground can do so on the Lake Maggiore Zipline at Aurano (VB). A steel cable 1850 meters long lets visitors fly at over 120 km/h for a minute and a half of pure fun. Adrenaline and direct contact with nature characterize the proposal by Vertical Trek Canyoning in Vanzone con San Carlo (VB), which organises descents into streams throughout the

Ossola. For the most reckless travellers, North West Paragliding offers fantastic flights in two-seater paragliders! Fun and relaxation are available at Lido Locarno (TI), the Sake Golf in

Losone (TI) and on the Bike & Wine tours organized by the Cantina Matasci in Tenero (TI). Soon, new attractions will be Register on www.distrettolaghi.it! Our accredited users have access unveiled, and become part of this important circuit. to a lot of exclusive content! www.distrettolaghi.it/user/register Also this year, there is good news for technology enthusiasts: the

Lago Maggiore Fun app will soon be available on all Apple and Android devices! It will contain all the presentations, contact information and coordinates to reach all the attractions, as well as updated news with events and initiatives. You can also Distretto Turistico dei Laghi, Monti e Valli dell’Ossola register to download discounts and coupons, and also take a Via dell'Industria, 25 selfie and post it directly on the app and on social media of 28924 Verbania-Fondotoce (VB) Tel. +39 0323 30416 Lago Maggiore Fun (info, updates and promotions: Fax +39 0323 934335 [email protected] www.lagomaggiorefun.com). www.distrettolaghi.it

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We don’t want to forget our spas in Bognanco

and Premia! Entertainment, relaxation and care

for all ages in an architectural context that

respects the environmental beauty of the

surrounding territory!

Bognanco and its spa, with over 150 years of history, are located

in a corner of Piedmont bordering with Switzerland, in a lush, green valley with many waterfalls and rivers. Its reasons for fame

remain unchanged, the merits that had attracted the attention of the rest of Italy, Europe and America: from 1963 to today, the

spa can boast the presence of more than 20 million visitors, 10 million of whom have benefited from water drinking treatments.

Among other services offered: turkish bath, emotional showers, reaction tank, Finnish sauna, swimming pools, SPAStream,

herbal teas and relaxation room. The spa center is located at 700 meters above sea level, seven

kilometers from Domodossola. The wellness centre is open every day except Tuesday from 10 am to 6 pm. On Fridays, it closes

later, at 10 pm (info: www.bognanco.it).

The "Terme di Premia" (Valle Antigorio) is a modern spa with

indoor and outdoor thermal swimming pools, with a spring that emerges from the ground at a temperature of about 42°C. The

water has important therapeutic and moisturizing properties that allow visitors to carry out cycles of thermal treatments

covered by the National Health System or paid out of pocket. Moreover: whirlpool loungers, neck jets, a vascular path and a

space for children, full of fun and relaxation for the whole family. Do not miss the evenings "Benessere Sotto le Stelle" with closing time at midnight: the next event is on 2 June to discover the

magic of thermal water under a starry sky! In August, the Premia Explore our new "WELLNESS” Spa will celebrate 10 years of business with many initiatives and section, to discover our spas and thermal springs and the prestigious the return of "Terme in Music", with live music and Apericena on mountain and lake resorts and hotels with wellness Friday evenings during the summer (info: offers.www.distrettolaghi.it/en/be www.premiaterme.com). nessere

Distretto Turistico dei Laghi, Monti e Valli dell’Ossola Via dell'Industria, 25 28924 Verbania-Fondotoce (VB) Tel. +39 0323 30416 Fax +39 0323 934335 [email protected] www.distrettolaghi.it

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Lake Maggiore, Lake Orta and Lake Mergozzo, surrounded by the splendid Ossola valleys, await you for an all-inclusive vacation: allow one of the over 860 accommodations present in our city to take care of you. Take advantage of the countless leisure opportunities, savour local culture and specialities connected with excellent food and wine, be present on one of the many evenings organized in our most renowned localities hosting major events and experience unforgettable moments!

With over 3.5 million visitors per year, over 76% of which from abroad, the Distretto Turistico dei Laghi area - located at the center of an area with high population density between

Switzerland, Varese, Milan and Turin - is the No. 3 spot for the number of hotel beds and number of inhabitants, ranking after

Valle d'Aosta and Trentino. It is in 3rd place for the ratio of tourist presences and number of inhabitants after Trentino and Valle d'Aosta, in addition to being one of the most popular tourist destinations in North Italy!

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU!

Distretto Turistico dei Laghi, Monti e Valli dell’Ossola Via dell'Industria, 25 28924 Verbania-Fondotoce (VB) Tel. +39 0323 30416 Fax +39 0323 934335 [email protected] www.distrettolaghi.it

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