LagoMaggiore

Another major reason we fell for our wedding venue is its surrounding location—Lago Maggiore (which translates to “Lake Major”). One of the most stunning and underrated lakes in northern Italy, it has all the beauty and charm of the more famous lakes, but with fewer crowds and a more authentic, laid-back and lived-in feel. While most people dart straight to Lake Como, Italians will tell you that Maggiore is one of the country’s best-kept secrets and where they’d prefer to go. The views are incredible, the atmosphere is peaceful, and the small towns along the shoreline are full of character and local flavor.

Lake Maggiore gave us everything we were looking for in a destination: Natural beauty, great food and wine, rich history, and an easygoing energy that makes you want to slow down and stay awhile. It’s the kind of place where you can take a boat ride to a garden-covered island in the morning, sip an Aperol spritz by the water in the afternoon, and wander cobblestone streets at sunset.

We also loved how easy it is to reach—just about an hour from Milan by car, yet it feels like a world of its own. That means it’s not only beautiful, but accessible for our guests. Plus, its location makes it a great starting point for post-wedding travel throughout Italy and even into neighboring countries.