Top Things to Do in Laveno Mombello: A Gem on Lake Maggiore’s Lombard Shore
Nestled on the Lombard shore of Lake Maggiore, right across from Verbania Intra, Laveno Mombello is a destination that captures the heart from the moment you arrive.
Whether you are stepping off the ferry to explore its charming lakefront or taking the cableway to witness the breathtaking views from Sasso del Ferro, this town offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
In this guide, we’ll explore the very best things to do in Laveno, from the historic charm of the local streets to the spiritual serenity of the nearby Hermitage of Santa Caterina.
It is a place where every sunset feels personal and every view tells a story—let’s discover why Laveno should be your next Italian escape.
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Useful information
Here is some useful information about Laveno Mobello on Lake Maggiore.
How to get to Laveno from Verbania?
You can get to Laveno from Verbania by car but it takes approximately 1 and a half hours. The quickest and most comfortable way to reach Laveno from Verbania is to take the ferry from the Verbania Intra pier. At Verbania Intra you can board either on foot or by car.
The Verbania Intra – Laveno ferry route is direct and very convenient, with many departures throughout the day.
Laveno landing stage
The Laveno pier is very convenient, as it is close to the lakeside pedestrian promenade. This way, if you arrive in Laveno by ferry without a car in tow, you are already in the center of Laveno.
You can still get to Laveno by ferry and car as the pier is located in an area that is also accessible by car.
Video Things to do in Laveno Mombello Lake Maggiore Italy
Watch the video directly on this page, or click here for viewing on YouTube (ideal for mobile users): https://youtu.be/0Kc5ibwzYDI.
Text of the video
Hi everybody, we are on a boat on Lake Maggiore. We boarded in Verbania Intra to go to Laveno. We’re going to Laveno to spend the afternoon on the top of the Sasso del Ferro and to enjoy a good dinner in a magnificent place.
Two other things to see here in Laveno are the lakefront and the Hermitage of Santa Caterina which is easily reachable from Laveno. We are almost there in fact and we can admire Laveno in front of us. To climb the Sasso del Ferro, we have to go to the cableway, but in the meantime, we can enjoy a nice walk along the Laveno lakefront.
To go to the Hermitage of Santa Caterina from Laveno, you can go by boat or car. The ferry from Verbania to Laveno can also bring cars. This way you can come to Laveno from Verbania and then go to the Hermitage by car. However, the best option to go to the Hermitage is by boat. This way you can see the Hermitage from the lake. Now let’s go back to Laveno to see the ascent on the cable car and the view from the Sasso del Ferro.
Laveno Mombello: What to See & Beyond
Laveno is a beautiful town situated on the Lombard shore of Lake Maggiore, right in front of Verbania. While it serves as a wonderful base for exploration, the true spirit of this place is found in the experiences that surround it. Below are the highlights that make this area so special, with many more secrets to be revealed as you read on.
The Laveno Lakefront: An Authentic Take
The lakeside promenade in Laveno is undoubtedly pleasant and well-maintained, perfect for a relaxing stroll after arriving by ferry. However, to be completely authentic and constructive: while the walk itself is “nice,” it might not be the most exceptional stretch of Lake Maggiore compared to others. If you were coming only for the promenade, it might not justify a long journey.
But there is a specific moment when Laveno truly transforms. What I personally love most is the lakefront in the evening. As the sun goes down, the lights from the historic buildings begin to reflect on the water’s surface, creating a shimmering, magical dance of light. This view is deeply moving and, for me, it is the true highlight of the promenade—a sight that makes the whole walk worthwhile. You can catch a glimpse of these beautiful evening reflections in this part of our video: https://youtu.be/0Kc5ibwzYDI?si=hmyDYQWYD8Wlqfst&t=802.
Beyond its beauty, Laveno’s true value lies in its role as a perfect travel hub. One of the most convenient things about this town is that as soon as you step off the ferry boat at the landing stage, you find the train station right in front of you. This makes it incredibly easy, even if you are traveling without a car, to hop on a train and reach other major destinations. From here, for example, you can easily catch a direct connection to visit the vibrant city of Milan.
For tips on how to make the most of your visit there, check out our guide: Milan Things to Do: Top 10 Must-See Attractions.
A Perfect Travel Hub: Ferry and Train
One of the best things about arriving in Laveno is how incredibly convenient it is. As soon as you step off the ferry boat at the landing stage, you will find the train station right in front of you. This makes Laveno an ideal gateway; from here, even if you are on foot, you can easily hop on a train to reach almost any destination you desire. For instance, you can take a direct line to explore the vibrant city of Milan, or use the frequent connections to discover the many wonders scattered throughout the region.
The Heights of Sasso del Ferro: A Magical Experience
One of the main reasons to visit Laveno is to climb Sasso del Ferro, the mountain that rises majestically behind the town. Just a short walk from the ferry landing stage, you can board the cableway for a journey that is much more than a simple ride; it is an exceptional and deeply moving experience that makes you feel like you are truly on top of the world.
Once you reach the summit, you’ll find a fantastic panoramic terrace where the view opens up to reveal the entire expanse of Lake Maggiore, the surrounding mountains, and the vast plains below. The area is well-equipped for a perfect stay, featuring picnic tables, a bar, and a restaurant. It is an incredibly romantic spot, ideal for enjoying a meal or a drink while watching the world from above.
I’ll never forget the time I visited with some American friends. As we stood there, high above the lake, watching a breathtaking sunset, they couldn’t help but compare the magic of the moment to Santorini. Of course, they are two completely different places, but it says so much about the soul of this mountain: it offers that same Mediterranean wonder and “wow” factor, but with the peace and intimacy of a place that isn’t overwhelmed by crowds. It is a rare kind of magic that stays with everyone who visits.
For more details on this incredible location, you can read the full story here: Experience Lake Maggiore’s beauty, which can rival Santorini: spectacular alpine sunsets.
The Spiritual Beauty of the Hermitage of Santa Caterina
A visit to the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso is an essential experience for anyone visiting Lake Maggiore. This ancient structure is famously set directly into the rock face, hanging over the water in a way that feels almost miraculous. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful destinations on the lake due to its unique characteristics and its absolutely evocative setting.
The atmosphere here is unlike anywhere else on the lake. You can reach the Hermitage from Laveno in about 10 minutes by car. Once you park, you have two ways to reach the level of the Hermitage: you can take the free stairs or use the convenient lift for a small fee.+1
However, for a truly unforgettable perspective, I highly recommend arriving by water. Even if you have a car, taking the boat allows you to fully appreciate its incredible position clinging to the cliffside. The ferry service is very convenient: you can reach the Hermitage by boat not only from Laveno, but also from major hubs across the lake like Verbania Pallanza and Stresa.
If you want more information and wish to explore more content about this sacred site, be sure to visit the dedicated post: Hermitage of Santa Caterina Lake Maggiore Italy.
Gateway to the Western Shore: Verbania
Laveno is the perfect starting point to cross the lake. By taking the ferry to Verbania Intra, you gain access to an incredible lakefront promenade that stretches for kilometers. Walking from Intra toward Pallanza and beyond allows you to fully breathe in the lakeside atmosphere that makes this region so beloved.+1
Hidden Gems and Nearby Discoveries
If you have a car, the adventure extends even further into the surrounding landscape:
- Luino: The lakefront here has been recently renovated and is quite beautiful, offering a fresh and modern way to enjoy the water.
- Villa Della Porta Bozzolo: A true “hidden jewel.” This ancient villa is unknown to many, but for those who seek out beauty beyond the main tourist paths, it is a magnificent discovery that feels like a private secret.
But these highlights are only the beginning. As we dive deeper into the details of each location in the following sections, you will discover why Laveno is the perfect heart of your Lake Maggiore exploration.
Villa Della Porta Bozzolo: A Hidden “Jewel Box” Near Laveno
If you have a car, there is a hidden treasure that many travelers—and even locals—often overlook. Just a 15-minute drive from the Laveno ferry landing stage, following a smooth and easy inland road, you will reach Villa Della Porta Bozzolo.
I have to be honest with you: until recently, I didn’t even know this place existed! It isn’t one of the most famous or advertised spots on Lake Maggiore, but that is exactly what makes it so special. It feels like a genuine hidden gem that I rediscovered by chance. While I wouldn’t say your trip to Lake Maggiore is incomplete without it—since it’s tucked slightly away from the shore—it is a magnificent “jewel box” of a home for those who love history and quiet beauty.
This ancient villa is incredibly charming and features a stunning park that invites you to linger. The real magic, however, lies inside. Unlike many other villas, it still holds its original period furnishings, giving you the feeling of stepping back in time. It isn’t a massive imperial palace, but a residence of great prestige and refined taste. Exploring its rooms is a truly pleasant and intimate experience—it feels like stepping into a perfectly preserved, elegant treasure chest.
Please note that there is an entrance fee to visit the villa and its gardens, but for the unique atmosphere you find inside, it is well worth the ticket. I was so pleasantly surprised by this discovery that I want to share it with you through this video:
Watch the video directly on this page, or click here for viewing on YouTube (ideal for mobile users): https://youtu.be/DMxI2RerhVU.
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