The lakes of northern Italy are a great place to visit. Set against the foothills of the alps, they offer dramatic scenery and a respite from summer's intense heat. Our lake region maps will help you decide on a destination. In general, Lake Como is the most popular lake for visitors, especially Americans. Lake Garda is popular with Germans and other Europeans, and Italians are likely to head for Lake Orta for an escape.The climb up Sacro Monte from the village takes maybe an hour round trip. On top is a sanctuary built in 1591 with 20 small chapels dedicated to St. Francis, many containing 17th century terracotta statues revealing the high points of the saint's life.You can take the funivia up to Brunate for a spectacular view of Lake Como and surrounding hills, and cool off in the summer in the higher altitude as well. Hikers can take the footpath up to Monte Boletto for the same effect.Lake Garda is almost 52km long and 17km wide at the widest point in the south part of the lake. It's a 160km drive to make the loop around Lake Garda. At its deepest point the lake reaches 346m in depth.
