Why San Giulio Island Is the Most Enchanting Place in Piedmont
Surrounded by the mysterious quiet of the Piedmont waters, the Island of San Giulio is a small pearl floating in the heart of Lake Orta, in the province of Novara. Few places in Italy can evoke the same feeling of spirituality, legend and suspended beauty: just 275 meters long and 140 meters wide, but a concentration of history and mysticism that has no equal. Legend has it that San Giulio freed the island from snakes and dragons, founding his hundredth church here: since then, among the ancient stones and the silence of the monastery, you can still breathe an atmosphere out of time.
What to See
The beating heart of the island is the Basilica of San Giulio, an extraordinary example of Romanesque architecture, built between the 9th and 12th centuries on the remains of the first early Christian church commissioned by the saint. Inside, the famous ambo in serpentine from Oira (12th century) stands out as a one-of-a-kind monument, while the naves and apses house frescoes that span a thousand years of sacred art. A few steps away is the Mater Ecclesiae Abbey, a cloistered Benedictine monastery founded in 1973: the complex cannot be visited, but the voices of the nuns, dedicated to prayer and the restoration of ancient fabrics, add charm and mystery to the route.
Don’t miss the Via del Silenzio e della Meditazione, a route that goes around the island, dotted with spiritual aphorisms and views of the lake: it is the best way to perceive the contemplative dimension of this extraordinary place.
Curiosities and Legends
The island is a true treasure chest of stories and mysteries: in addition to the famous legend of San Giulio, it is said that on certain foggy days you can still perceive ancient presences and that the waters around the island are “magnetic”, capable of making you lose track of time. The famous writer Mario Soldati also lived here, who described the island as “the most mysterious and romantic place in the world”.
How to Get There
Reaching the island is simple and scenic: just embark from Orta San Giulio (landing stage in Piazza Motta), with scheduled boats that leave every 15–30 minutes and also connect other villages on the shores of the lake. A return ticket costs around 4 euros. By car, from Milan take the A26, exit Arona, then head towards Orta San Giulio; from Turin, A4, exit Borgomanero. Those arriving by train can get off at the Orta-Miasino station (about 2 km from the landing stage, connection on foot or by taxi).
Practical Advice
The island can be visited in about 1–2 hours; we recommend wearing decent clothing to enter the basilica and respecting silence. The best periods are spring and autumn, when the light transforms the lake into a golden mirror and there are fewer tourists.
Where to Eat
The cuisine of the Island of San Giulio and Orta San Giulio reflects the Piedmontese and lakeside tradition, including perch, risottos, polenta and rice cakes: a riot of authentic flavours that are worth a stop in one of the typical restaurants in the area.
Ristorante San Giulio (Isola di San Giulio – Tel. 0322 905611): Overlooking the water, it is the perfect place to enjoy fresh lake fish dishes, delicate risottos and homemade desserts, all with an unparalleled view and a timeless atmosphere.
Venus Restaurant (Via Domodossola, 3 – Orta San Giulio – Tel. 0322 911902): Elegant and refined, it offers Piedmontese cuisine with creative touches. Excellent selection of local wines and dishes such as fillet of whitefish or ravioli filled with toma.
Il Cucchiaio di Legno (Via Domodossola, 63 – Orta San Giulio – Tel. 0322 905280): Highly appreciated for its home cooking, generous portions and family atmosphere. Ideal for those who want to taste local specialties at honest prices.
Where to Sleep
For those who want to prolong the magic, the village of Orta San Giulio offers hotels and B&Bs of all levels, many with lake views and a romantic atmosphere.
Hotel San Rocco (Via Gippini, 11 – Orta San Giulio – Tel. 0322 911902): An ancient convent transformed into a 4-star hotel: elegant rooms, swimming pool and panoramic terrace overlooking the lake.
Hotel La Bussola (Via Panoramica, 24 – Orta San Giulio – Tel. 0322 911902): 3-star hotel ideal for families, with internal restaurant and swimming pool, a few steps from the historic center.
Piccolo Hotel Olina (Via Olina, 40 – Orta San Giulio – Tel. 0322 905115): Affordable and welcoming hotel in the heart of the ancient village, perfect for short stays and dynamic travelers.
