Your venture into the Italian Lakes brings you to gorgeous Lake Maggiore, a destination steeped in old-world charm, and the glamorous waterfront town of Stresa. With a reputation for attracting European aristocrats, artists and affluent holidaymakers, the streets of Stresa come lined with grand hotels, elegant landmark villas and gourmet restaurants. From the waterfront, you can catch a boat over to the tiny Borromean Islands where you’ll find opulent Baroque palaces and lavish botanical gardens. For sweeping panoramas of the whole region, hop on the cable car to the summit of Monte Mattarone.

Throughout your trip you’ll be staying at one of Lake Maggiore’s most prestigious hotels, the Grand Hôtel des Îles Borromées, which was where Ernest Hemingway stayed during his frequent visits to the region. Today, the hotel still boasts the ‘Hemingway Suite’ alongside extensive gardens, an indulgent spa and impeccable views over the lake, islands and Alps beyond.

Stay: Seven nights in a double room at the Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees