Long and very narrow, the village of Cannero Riviera spreads along the shore of Lake Maggiore, making the most of the views and lush soils, which support the olive and citrus groves you might expect, but also palm trees, camellias, rhododendrons, azaleas and even more colourful and exotic flora. All our recommendations for the best places to stay in Cannero Riviera have wonderful views of the lake, and colourful gardens, whether they’re traditional family-run hotels, villa conversions, guesthouses, or more contemporary options.

Cannero Riviera’s scenery is probably its main appeal, and strolling along its long promenade is a wonderful way to absorb the beauty of the lake. It has two small ports — both picturesque. The northern port is older, and made even more picturesque by the castle of Cannero in the background, which sits on an island to the west. The southern port is surrounded by holiday apartments and villas, and is where you’ll find some of the best accommodation options in town.

Cannero Riviera’s centre is small, a few streets of historic buildings, but it is charming. We recommend exploring nearby Monte Morissolo, which has had a fascinating fort made of tunnels carved into it, dating from WW1. You can get there on foot, and there are numerous other walking and hiking routes you can join locally, including a number that head into the mountains of the Grande National Park. It’s one of the most peaceful towns on the lake, so a great place to escape to as well. However it does get busy in peak summer months. So if you want to guarantee a room in one of the best places to stay in Cannero Riviera, get organised and book well ahead.

The Best Places to Stay in Cannero Riviera

For Lake Views

• The Park Hotel Italia is a smartly converted lakeside villa, with 31 rooms and suites in an excellent spot right by the water. The high ceilings, huge windows and generous proportions remain, but the unfussy furniture lends comfort. As well as views from all the balconies, the location means the pool and restaurant terrace have views too. Work up a sweat on the tennis court before tucking into lovely Italian and Mediterranean cuisine.

For Waterside Charm

• The family-run Hotel Cannero is also picturesquely located right next to the water, its terrace just a few steps from the edge of the lake. This is a traditional hotel, with 55 rooms and suites, all charmingly, but individually decorated. The more traditional have tile or parquet floors, antiques and French windows, whilst the more contemporary have simpler wood flooring and contemporary furnishings, but still huge windows and terraces. The traditional features run to a piano bar too, and there’s a pool and tennis courts, a restaurant and wine bar.

Prefer a self catering Apartment or holiday Villa?

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• The closest international airports to Cannero Riviera are Milan Malpensa, which is about an hour and a quarter drive,and Milan Linate, which is an hour and a half away by car. If you’re travelling by train there are plenty of large local stations to go via, including Zürich, Bern and Milan.
• If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• Summer is the most popular time to visit Lake Maggiore. It’s not as popular as Lake Como or Lake Garda, but it’s still much loved by Italian families, and everyone who appreciates natural beauty, and woodsy walking trails. If you’re not restricted by school holidays, it’s worth considering May through June, and September and October to visit Lake Maggiore, because it’s especially green and verdant in spring, and beautifully copper golden come autumn. You’ll get some rain in both of these windows, but you’d be unlucky to have so much that it spoils your trip. Easter and Christmas are always wonderful celebrations in Italy, but it does get chilly on the lake.

Still not sure where to stay?

• You could expand your search to include all the best places to stay on Lake Maggiore
• Expand your search further to include all the best places to stay in Piedmont or the best places to stay in Lombardy, which is just on the other side of Lake Maggiore
• You may also want to consider the best places to stay in Locarno, Mediterranean Ascona or Stresa, which is known for its islands and architecture
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.