Lake Maggiore, straddling Italy and Switzerland, is a gem for families seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation. With a Mediterranean climate, summers are warm, perfect for enjoying its lush gardens and clear waters. The region's culture is a vibrant mix of Italian charm and Swiss precision, offering a rich tapestry of experiences from boat trips to exploring quaint lakeside towns. Holiday makers are drawn to its serene beauty and tantalising local cuisine, from fresh fish dishes to indulgent gelato. Activities for kids abound, from adventure parks to educational museums. Flight time from the UK is roughly 2 hours. An interesting fact? The lake is home to the Borromean Islands, each boasting unique gardens and aristocratic villas. Opting for a family break at a European holiday park here means immersing in stunning natural beauty while enjoying home comforts—a perfect balance for a stress-free getaway.

Discover Lake Maggiore Holiday Parks

European holiday parks are essentially self-contained resorts offering a variety of accommodations such as mobile homes, chalets, and camping spots. Guests can expect amenities like swimming pools, entertainment programs, and sports facilities. They're designed for convenience, offering a blend of nature, comfort, and fun. Choosing a holiday park over traditional UK hotels or package holidays means embracing a more relaxed, flexible holiday style. For families, the appeal lies in the variety of activities available for all ages, often included in the price. The presence of kitchen facilities helps manage budgets better, and the community atmosphere is unbeatable. Many parks boast direct beach access, thrilling waterslides, and onsite restaurants and bars, enhancing the holiday experience. Additionally, the increasing number of pet-friendly options means the whole family can enjoy a break together.

Why Take Your 2024 Family Holiday Park Break in Lake Maggiore?

Lake Maggiore, straddling Italy and Switzerland, offers a stunning backdrop for a family holiday. Its rich history, including the Borromean Islands with their exquisite gardens and palaces, adds a touch of elegance to your stay. The region is known for its mild climate, making it a year-round destination.

Pricing Guide

Here are some general starting price ranges (in £) for a week-long family break (2 adults, 2 children) during different seasons:

Peak Season (July-August):

• Basic campsite: £500-£800
• Mid-range holiday park: £800-£1500
• Apartment/villa: £1000-£2000+

Shoulder Seasons (May-June, September-October):

• Basic campsite: £350-£600
• Mid-range holiday park: £600-£1200
• Apartment/villa: £700-£1500

Off-Season (November-April):

• Basic campsite: £200-£400
• Mid-range holiday park: £400-£800
• Apartment/villa: £500-£1000

The area hosts numerous festivals, including the Verbania Music Festival, adding a cultural dimension to your visit. Lake Maggiore stands out for its blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and family-friendly amenities, making it a unique choice in Europe.

What's in it for the kids?

1. Endless waterslides and swimming pools for splash-tastic fun.
2. Onsite entertainment, from mini-discos to magic shows, keeps the excitement going.
3. Bike hire facilities to explore the surrounding nature trails.
4. Watersports activities, such as paddleboarding and kayaking, for adventurous spirits.
5. Playgrounds and sports courts where they can make new friends.
6. Special kids clubs offering a range of activities, catering to various interests and age groups.

Staying safe in the sun and in the pools

Many holiday parks run kids clubs that offer indoor activities for children sensitive to the sun. Safety is a priority, with most pools supervised by lifeguards. These parks are designed with family safety in mind, ensuring a worry-free holiday for parents.

Pet Friendly Lake Maggiore Adventures

Taking your pet on a holiday to Europe, including Lake Maggiore, requires some planning. Essential paperwork includes a pet passport and up-to-date vaccinations. Lake Maggiore is welcoming to pets, with several holiday parks offering pet-friendly accommodations. Restaurants like Ristorante La Tavernetta and Osteria degli Amici allow pets, making dining out with your furry friend a breeze.

1. Ensure your pet's vaccinations are up-to-date.
2. Secure a pet passport or animal health certificate.
3. Choose a pet-friendly holiday park.
4. Research local pet-friendly dining options.
5. Plan your travel route considering pet needs.

Dog walking routes in Lake Maggiore

Route	Distance (miles)	Scenery	Postcode
Villa Taranto Gardens	2	Garden/Floral	28922
Lago di Mergozzo	3	Lake	28802
Val Grande National Park	Varies	Mountain/Woodland	28801
Isola Bella	1-2	Island/Palace Gardens	28838
Sant'Anna Gorge	2.5	Gorge/River	28804

Dining at the park, or heading out

Holiday parks often feature on-site restaurants, providing convenience and variety. Local cuisine in Lake Maggiore includes fish dishes like "Pesce in carpione" and risotto with perch. For a family-friendly dining experience, Ristorante La Tavernetta offers delicious local dishes in a welcoming atmosphere. Couples might enjoy a romantic evening at Il Portale, known for its exquisite views and gourmet menu.

Outdoor activities for the whole family

Lake Maggiore is a hub for outdoor activities, with centres like Maccagno con Pino e Veddasca offering windsurfing, sailing, and kiteboarding. Prices vary, with a family group windsurfing lesson starting around €100. Seasonal opening times typically run from April to October, making summer the prime time for water sports.

Handy packing list

Item	Category
Passports/ID Cards	Travel Documents
Health Insurance Cards	Travel Documents
Driving Licence (if applicable)	Travel Documents
Swimwear and Sunscreen	Essentials
First Aid Kit	Health & Safety
Waterproof Camera	Gadgets
Portable Charger	Gadgets
Maps and Guidebooks	Travel Guides
Snacks for the journey	Food
Pet Food and Accessories (if applicable)	Pet Supplies

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Top Europe Parks for 2024 in Lake Maggiore

Isolino

• Booking Agent: Eurocamp
• Nearest Airports: Milan Malpensa (MXP) (59.7 km) and include driving distance
• Address: Via per Feriolo 25, 28924 Fondotoce di Verbania, Italy

About this park: Isolino, located on the shores of Lake Maggiore, offers a serene escape with its lush surroundings, direct beach access, and a variety of accommodations. Reachable within an hour from Milan Malpensa Airport, it's an ideal spot for nature and adventure lovers. Pools - The park boasts a pool complex with slides, massage jets, and a lazy river. The poolside terrace offers stunning lake views, and there's a splash playground for kids. Activities include aqua gym and sports tournaments. For the kids - Children can enjoy the splash playground, pony rides, and a variety of sports. The park also offers paddle boarding, yoga, and Zumba classes, ensuring fun for all ages. What's on-site? Dine at the park's restaurant, enjoy drinks at the bars, and engage in evening entertainment. The park caters well to adults with its dining options, bars, and proximity to local attractions like the Borromean Islands. What's nearby? Explore Isola Bella and the Borromean Islands, Pombia Safari Park, Val Grande National Park, Alpyland, and the town of Stresa. These attractions offer a mix of history, adventure, and natural beauty. Accommodation options: Isolino offers cosy mobile homes to spacious tents, suitable for couples, groups, and families. The park is pet-friendly, accommodating various group sizes.

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Lido Okay

• Booking Agent: Eurocamp
• Nearest Airports: Milan Malpensa (MXP) (22.1 km), Milan Linate (LIN) (77.5 km), Milan Bergamo (BGY) (104 km)
• Address: Via Angera, 115, 21018 Lisanza, Italy

About this park: Lido Okay, set on Lake Maggiore's shores, offers a mix of relaxation and adventure with stunning mountain and lake views. Easily accessible from Milan's airports, it's perfect for families seeking a picturesque holiday. Pools - The park features large swimming pools for all ages, including a dedicated kids' pool. Activities and evening entertainment are available, ensuring fun-filled days and nights. For the kids - Kids will enjoy their own pool, playground, and evening shows. The park also offers sports facilities and nearby water sports, making it a hit with teenagers. What's on-site? Enjoy meals at the on-site restaurant, relax at the bar, and explore local sights like Milan. The park's serene lakeside setting is perfect for unwinding. What's nearby? Visit Rocco di Angera, Pombia Safari Park, Stresa and Borromean Islands, Milan, and Sesto Calende. These attractions offer cultural, adventurous, and scenic experiences. Accommodation options: Lido Okay provides comfortable to stylish accommodation, welcoming pets and suitable for various group sizes.

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Lido Verbano

• Booking Agent: Eurocamp
• Nearest Airports: Milan Malpensa (MXP) (20km), Bergamo (BGY) (100km), Turin (TRN) (126km)
• Address: Via Sempione 100, 28053 Castelletto sopra Ticino NO, Italy

About this park: Lido Verbano offers a blend of sports and relaxation on Lake Maggiore's shores. With a variety of accommodations and activities like wakeboarding, it's a haven for active families. Pools - While traditional pools are absent, the private grassy beach and lake waters provide ample swimming and volleyball opportunities. For the kids - Wakeboarding school, beach volleyball, cycling paths, and a children's playground are available, ensuring fun for the entire family. What's on-site? Enjoy lakeside dining at 'Dakato' and evening entertainment. The park's unique sports and leisure blend, along with stunning lake views, make it a memorable stay. What's nearby? Explore Rocca di Angera, Borromean Islands, Stresa, Arona, and Milan for a mix of culture, adventure, and scenic beauty. Accommodation options: Lido Verbano offers bright and comfortable accommodation, suitable for families, groups, and couples. The park is pet-friendly.

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Village Lago Maggiore

• Booking Agent: Eurocamp
• Nearest Airports: Milan Malpensa (MXP) (26km)
• Address: Via Salvador Dalì 2, 28040 Dormelletto, Italy

About this park: Village Lago Maggiore, nestled on Italy's second-largest lake's shores, offers a picturesque retreat with direct beach access and a variety of accommodations. Pools - The park features a main outdoor pool with a waterslide and a children's splash pool, catering to all ages for water-based fun. For the kids - With watersports, evening shows, and kids' clubs, the park ensures entertainment for children and teenagers alike. What's on-site? Enjoy dining options, bars, and live entertainment, making every moment unforgettable. The park blends relaxation and activity seamlessly. What's nearby? Explore the Lagoons of the Mercurago Natural Park, Arona, Stresa and Borromean Islands, Milan, and Pombia Safari Park for diverse experiences. Accommodation options: Offering simple to stylish accommodation, Village Lago Maggiore is suitable for couples, groups, and families, with pet-friendly options available.

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FAQs

What exactly is a European holiday park?

A European holiday park, especially around Lake Maggiore, is a self-contained resort offering various types of accommodation such as mobile homes, bungalows, or camping pitches. These parks are designed with families in mind, featuring a plethora of amenities like swimming pools, playgrounds, restaurants, and sometimes even direct access to the lake or surrounding nature. They provide a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and comfort.

How do I pick the right one for my family?

Consider what’s important for your family. If you have young children, look for parks with shallow pools, kids’ clubs, and playgrounds. For older children or adults, parks offering water sports, hiking, or cycling around Lake Maggiore might be more appealing. Also, check the location to ensure it’s convenient for exploring nearby attractions. Reviews from other families can be incredibly helpful too.

What types of accommodation are there?

Accommodation options vary widely, from luxury mobile homes with all the mod-cons to more traditional camping pitches for tents or caravans. Many parks also offer bungalows or chalets, which can provide a bit more space and privacy for your family. It’s all about your comfort level and budget.

How do you even get there?

Lake Maggiore is easily accessible by car, train, or plane. The nearest airports are Milan Malpensa and Lugano, with car rental options available. There’s also a scenic train route that skirts the lake, offering stunning views. Driving from the UK is an adventure in itself, crossing through France and Switzerland, but remember to check toll and vignette requirements.

Is visiting Lake Maggiore at peak times a nightmare?

Like any popular destination, Lake Maggiore can get busy during peak summer months. However, choosing a holiday park as your base can alleviate much of the stress associated with crowded areas. These parks often provide a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle, and many have their own private beaches or pools.

I like it! How do I book?

Booking is usually straightforward. Most holiday parks around Lake Maggiore have websites with availability calendars. It’s often possible to book directly online or via phone. Alternatively, using a reputable travel agent can provide additional security and peace of mind, especially if you’re looking for package deals including travel.

What if we have to cancel?

Cancellation policies vary by park, so it’s crucial to read the terms and conditions carefully before booking. Many offer free cancellation within a certain timeframe, while others may charge a fee. Travel insurance that covers cancellation for unforeseen circumstances is always a good idea.

What amenities and facilities will be on-site?

Most parks boast a range of facilities, including swimming pools, restaurants, grocery shops, and laundry services. For families, playgrounds, kids’ clubs, and sports facilities are common. Some parks also offer bike hire, perfect for exploring the surrounding area of Lake Maggiore.

Is it all-inclusive?

While some holiday parks offer packages that include meals and activities, most operate on a self-catering basis. This gives you the flexibility to cook in your accommodation or dine out at the park’s restaurant or local eateries around Lake Maggiore.

What dining options will be available?

On-site dining usually includes a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, a café for lighter bites, and sometimes a takeaway service. The area around Lake Maggiore is renowned for its excellent Italian food, so venturing out to local restaurants is highly recommended.

Can you leave the park and explore Lake Maggiore?

Absolutely! One of the joys of staying in a holiday park is the freedom to explore. Lake Maggiore is surrounded by charming towns, beautiful islands, and stunning mountain scenery. Many parks offer excursion booking services to help you discover the area’s highlights.

What do I need to pack?

Alongside your usual holiday gear, bring comfortable shoes for walking or hiking, swimwear, and perhaps even a light jacket for cooler evenings. If you’re planning to self-cater, some basic cooking supplies might be useful, although most accommodations are well-equipped.

Is it different to a package holiday?

Yes, in that you have more freedom and flexibility. You’re not tied to hotel meal times or group excursions. It’s a more relaxed, self-directed experience, ideal for families wanting to pace their holiday to suit their own interests and energy levels.

Can you drive there?

Driving to Lake Maggiore from the UK is certainly possible and allows you to explore the region at your own pace. The journey through France and Switzerland is scenic, but remember to check each country's driving regulations and toll requirements.

How does check-in and check-out work?

Check-in procedures are similar to hotels. You’ll need identification and your booking confirmation. Check-out is usually by mid-morning on your departure day. It’s worth asking if there’s flexibility for late check-out to enjoy a final swim or walk around the lake.

Are there any sneaky hidden costs?

Be aware of potential extra charges for things like bed linen, towels, and Wi-Fi. Some parks also charge for activities or equipment hire. Always check what’s included in your booking and ask about any additional costs upfront.

How accessible is it for guests with disabilities?

Many holiday parks around Lake Maggiore are making efforts to improve accessibility, offering accommodations designed for guests with disabilities and ensuring common areas are accessible. However, it’s best to contact the park directly to discuss specific needs and facilities.

Is Wi-Fi available, and is it free?

Wi-Fi is increasingly common in holiday parks, but its availability and whether it’s free varies. Some parks offer free Wi-Fi in communal areas, while others may charge or provide it only in premium accommodation.

Can you take a baby to a holiday park?

Holiday parks are ideal for families with babies, offering the comfort and convenience needed. Many provide baby-friendly amenities like cots and high chairs, but it’s wise to confirm these details when booking.

What if someone needs a doctor when we're there?

Most holiday parks have information on local medical services available at reception. In case of an emergency, Italy’s healthcare system is accessible to tourists, but having travel insurance is crucial for covering any medical expenses.

Are there any recommended day trips from Lake Maggiore?

Definitely explore the Borromean Islands, each with its own unique charm. The botanical gardens of Villa Taranto are a must-see, and the nearby town of Stresa is perfect for a leisurely stroll and lakeside dining.

What’s the best way to enjoy Lake Maggiore’s natural beauty?

Rent a boat for a day, or take one of the many ferry services to explore the lake at your own pace. Hiking in the surrounding mountains offers breathtaking views and a chance to immerse yourself in the area’s natural splendour.

Any tips for visiting with children?

Look for parks with dedicated children’s entertainment and safe swimming areas. The Adventure Park in Baveno is great for older kids, offering zip lines and treetop adventures. Always have sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, especially during the summer months.