Panoramic picnic on Alpe San Michele

Alpe San Michele, a meeting point between Valcuvia and Valtravaglia, is one of the most stunning points from which to enjoy views from above Lake Maggiore.

Here we have the village of San Michele, in the province of Porto Valtravaglia, home to the enchanting little church of San Michele al Monte. The church is Romanesque in origin, decorated with early mediaeval frescoes, and surrounded by greenery. Previously alpine pastures, it is now the perfect place for a buen retiro and a picnic after a panoramic excursion.  

Although it is just a little over 800 metres in altitude, Alpe San Michele offers enviable views over the local area, embracing the Varese region, the upper area of Milan, upper Verbano and the villages and subalpine pastures. The panoramic vantage point of San Michele, near the church of the same name, can be reached on different excursion routes, starting from Porto Valtravaglia or the nearby municipalities, such as Mesenzana. Of the best-known trails, worthy of mention is the Trekking degli Insubri, a route that crosses through the woods along ancient trails and relics of Celtic origin. 

On arrival, hikers, mountain bike enthusiasts and visitors can rest in these holy, historical and natural surroundings, which are ideal for al fresco lunching. If you’d rather opt for a picnic or if you don’t fancy hiking on account of the bad weather, San Michele can also be reached by car. Just twenty minutes’ drive from Lake Maggiore, you will find restaurants and other venues with views of the lake.