Introduction
Nestled in the northwestern part of Italy, the province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola is a hidden gem in the Piedmont region, offering breathtaking landscapes, charming lakeside towns, and rich culinary traditions. With Lake Maggiore, alpine valleys, and national parks, this region is perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and food enthusiasts. Here’s a guide to the best places to visit and the must-try local foods.
Top Travel Destinations in Verbano-Cusio-Ossola
1. Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands
One of Italy’s most stunning lakes, Lake Maggiore stretches between Piedmont and Lombardy, extending into Switzerland. A boat ride to the Borromean Islands reveals incredible sights:
- Isola Bella – Home to the grand Borromeo Palace and its terraced gardens.
- Isola Madre – Known for lush botanical gardens and exotic plants.
- Isola dei Pescatori – A quaint fishing village with charming restaurants serving fresh lake fish.
2. Stresa – The Elegant Lakeside Town
Located on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, Stresa is a popular resort town with stunning lake views, elegant villas, and luxury hotels. A cable car ride up to Mottarone Mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Alps and seven lakes.
3. Val Grande National Park – A Wilderness Retreat
For hiking enthusiasts, Val Grande National Park is Italy’s largest wilderness area. This vast, untouched nature reserve is perfect for trekking, wildlife spotting, and escaping the hustle and bustle of city life.
4. Ossola Valley – The Heart of the Italian Alps
The Ossola Valley is a paradise for outdoor lovers, offering scenic mountain villages, historic castles, and excellent skiing in winter. Key highlights include:
- Domodossola – A charming medieval town with cobbled streets and traditional markets.
- Macugnaga – A picturesque village at the foot of Monte Rosa, ideal for hiking and skiing.
- Toce Waterfall – One of Europe’s most spectacular waterfalls, plunging 143 meters into a scenic valley.
5. Lake Orta – The Romantic Hidden Gem
Smaller and quieter than Lake Maggiore, Lake Orta is known for its fairy-tale ambiance. The town of Orta San Giulio offers charming alleyways, while Isola San Giulio houses a stunning Benedictine monastery.
Must-Try Foods in Verbano-Cusio-Ossola
1. Polenta concia
A staple of Piedmontese mountain cuisine, polenta concia is a rich, cheesy polenta dish made with local cheeses like Bettelmatt or Toma Ossolana and butter—perfect after a long hike in the Alps.
2. Bagnèt Verd
This traditional green sauce from Piedmont is made with parsley, garlic, anchovies, vinegar, and olive oil. It’s commonly served with Bollito Misto, a mixed boiled meat dish.
3. Bettelmatt Cheese
Produced in the high-altitude pastures of the Ossola Valley, Bettelmatt cheese is a rare and highly prized alpine cheese with a strong, nutty flavor. It pairs wonderfully with honey and local wines.
4. Stinchéet
A traditional flatbread from the Ossola Valley, stinchéet is made with flour, water, and salt, then brushed with butter for a crispy and savory treat.
5. Brisaula Ossolana
Similar to bresaola, this air-dried beef specialty from the Ossola region is cured with herbs and spices, making it a delicious appetizer with fresh bread and local cheese.
6. Tapulone
A rustic dish from the Lago d’Orta region, tapulone is a slow-cooked minced donkey meat stew flavored with wine and herbs, often served with polenta.
7. Pan Dolce di Domodossola
A traditional sweet bread from Domodossola, this dessert is enriched with hazelnuts, almonds, and dried fruits, making it a delicious treat with coffee or dessert wine.
8. Nebbiolo and Local Wines
The Nebbiolo grape, famous for Barolo and Barbaresco wines, is also grown in the Ossola Valley, producing full-bodied reds that pair beautifully with hearty mountain cuisine. Other local wines include Prünent, a unique and historic variety from the region.
Conclusion
Whether you’re exploring the islands of Lake Maggiore, hiking through Val Grande, or tasting local specialties in a mountain village, Verbano-Cusio-Ossola offers a mix of nature, history, and gastronomy. From Bettelmatt cheese and polenta concia to fine Nebbiolo wines, this region is a food lover’s paradise. If you’re looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path Italian adventure, this corner of Piedmont is a must-visit!