The largest town on Lake Maggiore, Verbania always responds to its self-proclaimed nickname, “the garden on the lake”. The natural setting is majestic, with azure waters stretching out beneath its towering mountains. Then the expansive gardens and parks take over, each providing a tranquil space for winding away an afternoon.
Verbania showcases the serenity of Lake Maggiore. Despite being the lake's largest town, it's a place that encourages everyone to move slowly and quietly. Sip a coffee at a cafe overlooking the lake, sneak in for a gelato or pizza, or read a book on one of the benches in the parks. The town is thin, tucked between the mountain slopes and the lakefront and roughly divided into three areas. Ferries stop in Verbania Pallanza which has the most picturesque waterfront. Follow the lake north to a charming residential area where it's possible to hop to the small islet of Isolino San Giovanni. The most visited area is around Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens and Villa San Remigio, the most famous of the attractions. The marvellous gardens are the highlight, and they feature over 20,000 species of plants from around the world. If the Botanical Gardens are a little busy, then try the Villa Giulia or the Museo del Paesaggio, where there's hardly another soul in sight.
It doesn't feel right to get around Verbania on anything but two legs. Verbania is also a good base for exploring any of the destinations on the west bank of Lake Maggiore, either by bus or car. There's a car ferry that crosses the lake to Laveno on the eastern shore. When coming from Milan or other destinations to the south of Lake Maggiore, it's easiest to travel to Laveno then take the boat.
The peaceful gardens have had an impact on the longevity of the Verbania residents. In 2016, Emma Martina Luigia Morano entered the Guinness World Records as the last living person born in the 19th century.