The province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola is the most northerly in the region of Piedmont and was made up in 1992 from three provinces which once belonged to the province of Novara. The eastern section lies along the shores of Lake Maggiore and this includes the capital city of Verbania. It borders Switzerland to the north and west, the region of Aosta to the west, the region of Lombardy to the east, the province of Novara to the north with the remainder of its borders touching the province of Vercelli. In total it covers an area of 2,255 sq.km.
The province is almost entirely mountainous or very hilly with the only low lying area being in the Ossola valley along the banks of the River Toce.
The capital city of the province is Verbania with the second city being Domodossola.
Other main towns in the province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola are:
Nestled in the far north of Italy, close to the Swiss border, Verbano-Cusio-Ossola Province (VCO) is a region of breathtaking beauty and diverse landscapes. Part of the Piedmont region, it is a province where the dramatic peaks of the Alps meet the tranquil waters of Italy's most stunning lakes, including Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta. The region is renowned for its pristine natural environment, charming towns, historic sites, and unique blend of Italian and Swiss influences. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast seeking adventure in the mountains, a history lover exploring ancient villages, or a traveler looking for serene lakeside retreats, Verbano-Cusio-Ossola offers an experience unlike any other.
Verbano-Cusio-Ossola is divided into three main areas:
- Verbano, which refers to the Lake Maggiore area.
- Cusio, which surrounds the smaller Lake Orta.
- Ossola, a mountainous region dominated by the Alps.
This unique geography makes the province one of the most diverse in Italy, where visitors can explore sparkling lakes, lush valleys, rugged mountains, and alpine meadows, often all in the same day. The province’s proximity to Switzerland adds to its unique cultural and natural landscape, giving it a distinct charm and identity.
The lakes of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola are some of the most beautiful and serene in Italy, offering a tranquil escape with stunning landscapes and a touch of old-world charm.
Lake Maggiore is the largest lake in the province and one of Italy's most famous lakes, known for its crystal-clear waters, picturesque islands, and lush gardens. The western shore of the lake lies within Verbano-Cusio-Ossola Province and is home to some of its most beautiful towns, including Stresa, Verbania, and Baveno.
This elegant lakeside town is famous for its luxury hotels, grand villas, and the nearby Borromean Islands. The Isola Bella, one of these islands, is renowned for its magnificent 17th-century palace and stunning Baroque gardens, which appear to float on the waters of the lake. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the islands and enjoy panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
The provincial capital, Verbania, is another must-visit destination along Lake Maggiore. Known as the “Garden on the Lake,” Verbania is home to beautiful parks and botanical gardens, such as Villa Taranto, which features over 20,000 plant species from around the world. The town’s waterfront promenade, charming old town, and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect base for exploring the lake.
Lake Orta, located in the Cusio region, is one of Italy’s most enchanting and tranquil lakes. Smaller and quieter than Lake Maggiore, Lake Orta is often described as a hidden gem, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking relaxation and beauty.
The town of Orta San Giulio, situated on the eastern shore of the lake, is one of the most picturesque villages in Italy. With its narrow cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and quaint piazzas, Orta San Giulio exudes a romantic and timeless charm. Just off the shore lies Isola San Giulio, a small island dominated by the Basilica di San Giulio, an ancient church steeped in legend and spirituality. The island is often referred to as the “Island of Silence” due to its peaceful atmosphere.
Overlooking the town of Orta San Giulio is the Sacro Monte di Orta, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This complex of 20 chapels, built between the late 16th and 18th centuries, is dedicated to the life of St. Francis of Assisi. The chapels are adorned with frescoes and sculptures, and the site offers stunning views of the lake below.
While the lakes are a major draw for visitors, the Ossola Valley and its surrounding alpine regions offer some of the most dramatic and untouched landscapes in northern Italy. The Ossola region is characterized by deep valleys, snow-capped peaks, and traditional alpine villages.
One of the highlights of the Ossola region is the Val Grande National Park, the largest wilderness area in Italy. The park is a paradise for hikers, offering rugged trails that lead through dense forests, alpine meadows, and past waterfalls and streams. Val Grande is known for its remote, wild beauty and offers visitors a chance to reconnect with nature in its purest form. For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Val Grande provides an unforgettable experience of Italy’s natural splendor.
The town of Domodossola, located at the heart of the Ossola Valley, is a gateway to the alpine region and a charming destination in its own right. Domodossola is known for its medieval old town, with its cobblestone streets, elegant piazzas, and well-preserved Renaissance architecture. The town’s Piazza del Mercato is one of the most beautiful squares in the province, surrounded by historic buildings with arcades and balconies.
For alpine enthusiasts, the mountain village of Macugnaga, located at the foot of Monte Rosa, is a must-visit. Monte Rosa is the second-highest mountain in the Alps, and its towering presence dominates the landscape of this picturesque village. Macugnaga is a popular destination for both summer and winter sports, offering skiing, hiking, and mountaineering. The village is also home to traditional Walser houses, a testament to the ancient Germanic culture that once thrived in this region.
Verbano-Cusio-Ossola Province is not only blessed with natural beauty but also boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage. The region’s history can be explored through its ancient castles, medieval churches, and traditional festivals.
In addition to the Sacro Monte di Orta, the province is home to the Sacro Monte Calvario in Domodossola, another UNESCO World Heritage site. The Sacri Monti (Sacred Mountains) are a group of devotional complexes built in the 16th and 17th centuries to inspire pilgrims with their beauty and spirituality. Sacro Monte Calvario, with its chapels dedicated to the Passion of Christ, offers a peaceful place for reflection and stunning views of the surrounding valleys.
The province is dotted with ancient castles and fortresses, which offer insight into its historical importance as a border region. The Rocca di Angera, located on the southern shore of Lake Maggiore, is a well-preserved medieval fortress that offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The Castello Visconteo in Vogogna, another medieval stronghold, was built in the 14th century and is now a museum that showcases the region’s history and heritage.
The culinary traditions of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola are deeply rooted in the region’s alpine and lake environments. Local dishes are hearty, flavorful, and often made with ingredients sourced from the surrounding mountains and waters.
In the alpine regions of Ossola, traditional dishes include polenta, a cornmeal-based dish often served with stews, cheese, or mushrooms. The region is also known for its walser cuisine, which reflects the influence of the ancient Germanic-speaking Walser people who once inhabited the alpine valleys. Dishes such as Pizzoccheri (a type of buckwheat pasta) and Bocconcini di Cervo (venison stew) are popular in the mountain areas.
Along the shores of Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta, fish dishes are a staple of the local cuisine. Pesce Persico (perch) and Trota (trout) are commonly served grilled or in delicate sauces, often accompanied by fresh herbs and local vegetables. Visitors can enjoy these dishes in charming lakeside restaurants while taking in the stunning views of the water.
Verbano-Cusio-Ossola is also known for its high-quality dairy products, particularly its cheeses. Bettelmatt, a rare alpine cheese produced only in the high valleys of Ossola, is one of the region’s most prized delicacies. The province is also part of the Alto Piemonte wine region, producing excellent wines such as Nebbiolo and Valli Ossolane, which pair perfectly with the local cuisine.
Verbano-Cusio-Ossola hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year that celebrate its rich cultural traditions and natural bounty.
One of the most prestigious cultural events in the province is the Stresa Festival, held annually in the town of Stresa on Lake Maggiore. This classical music festival attracts world-class musicians and performers, offering concerts in stunning venues such as historic villas and churches. The festival is a must-visit for music lovers and provides an elegant cultural experience in a beautiful lakeside setting.
For food enthusiasts, the Ossola Valley Cheese Festival is a highlight of the culinary calendar. Held in Domodossola, the festival celebrates the region’s rich dairy tradition, offering visitors the chance to sample and purchase local cheeses, wines, and other delicacies.
Verbano-Cusio-Ossola Province is a destination that offers an incredible range of experiences, from the serene beauty of its lakes to the rugged majesty of its alpine landscapes. Whether you are exploring the medieval streets of Orta San Giulio, hiking in the wilds of Val Grande, or enjoying a boat tour of Lake Maggiore’s islands, this province promises an unforgettable journey through one of Italy’s most picturesque and culturally rich regions. For those seeking a perfect blend of nature, history, and relaxation, Verbano-Cusio-Ossola is a hidden gem that should not be missed.
| High | Low | Sun | Rain | |
| Jan | 11 | 2 | 3 | 55 |
| Feb | 12 | 3 | 4 | 53 |
| Mar | 14 | 4 | 5 | 63 |
| Apr | 18 | 7 | 6 | 55 |
| May | 22 | 11 | 8 | 35 |
| Jun | 26 | 15 | 9 | 44 |
| Jul | 29 | 17 | 10 | 34 |
| Aug | 29 | 17 | 9 | 54 |
| Sep | 25 | 14 | 7 | 61 |
| Oct | 21 | 11 | 6 | 74 |
| Nov | 16 | 8 | 4 | 71 |
| Dec | 12 | 3 | 3 | 77 |
| Table Key: High - Average monthly high temperatures Low - Average monthly low temperatures Sun - Average hours of sunshine per day Rain - Average monthly rainfall in mm |
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