Mountain peaks around Gignese offer diverse outdoor opportunities from its base at 700 meters altitude. This Italian commune provides access to several notable peaks, including Monte Mottarone, Monte Scincina, and Monte Falò. The area is characterized by its mountainous terrain, offering panoramic views of surrounding lakes and the Alps. It serves as a starting point for various hiking trails and recreational activities.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more peaks around Gignese.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Getting to the top is exciting.
0
0
Isola Pescatori, Lake Maggiore Isola dei Pescatori (Fishermen's Island), also called Isola Superiore (Upper Island), is one of the Borromean Islands in Lake Maggiore. Located in the municipality of Stresa, it is the only island in the lake that has been permanently inhabited since the beginning of the 14th century. The elongated island stretches approximately 350 meters from northwest to southeast and is about 100 meters wide at its widest point. The 3.4-hectare area is home to a fishing village in the southeast. An old avenue characterizes the northwest of the island. The harbor is located on the island's southern shore. There, fishermen have moorings for their boats, some of which are protected by a high stone wall. It also houses piers for water taxis and passenger boats. Isola dei Pescatori had 208 inhabitants in 1971, but by the last census (2001), the number had dropped to just 57. Sights The island's most striking building is the parish church, dedicated to Saint Victor (San Vittore). The multi-story houses feature characteristic long balconies, on whose railings fish is traditionally dried. The harbor entrance is protected by a life-size statue of the Praying Madonna. Text: Wikipedia https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isola_dei_Pescatori
14
0
Isola dei Pescatori (Isola Superiore) "The Fishermen's Island" Isola dei Pescatori, also known as Fishermen's Island or Isola Superiore, is the only permanently inhabited island. Its characteristic alleys and houses with long balconies for drying fish, the small village square, the tree-lined promenade, and the main street make it one of the most romantic and picturesque spots on the lake. Also characteristic is the small market, where local handicrafts are sold, which attracts many tourists. Text / Source: Lago-Maggiore.de https://www.lago-maggiore.de/ausflugsziele/borromaeische-inseln.html
13
0
Isola dei Pescatori (Isola Superiore) "The Fishermen's Island" on Lake Maggiore Isola dei Pescatori, also known as Fishermen's Island or Isola Superiore, is the only permanently inhabited island. Its characteristic alleys and houses with long balconies for drying fish, the small village square, the tree-lined promenade, and the main street make it one of the most romantic and picturesque spots on the lake. Also characteristic is the small market selling local handicrafts, which attracts many tourists. Text / Source: Lago-Maggiore.de https://www.lago-maggiore.de/ausflugsziele/borromaeische-inseln.html
14
0
Not on weekends. It's too crowded then.
0
0
The road is quiet, through the forest and climbs steadily.
0
0
Among the most popular spots are Mottarone Climb from Armeno, which offers rewarding views of Lago Maggiore and Lago d'Orta. Visitors also highly appreciate the View from Sasso del Ferro for its panoramic mountain experience overlooking Lake Maggiore and Lake Varese, and the View from Mottarone Summit, known for its unique 360-degree panorama encompassing seven lakes and the distant Alps.
Monte Mottarone is easily accessible. You can reach the summit by car from Gignese via provincial road 41 or the private Borromea toll road. Additionally, a funicular railway from Stresa provides access, with a convenient stop in Gignese, making it easy for visitors to reach the mountain's upper elevations.
Yes, Monte Mottarone offers family-friendly activities. The Alpyland alpine coaster, a 1,200-meter 'rollercoaster' near the summit, provides a thrilling experience for all ages. The mountain also features gentle slopes suitable for beginners during winter for skiing and snowshoeing.
The area around Gignese offers diverse hiking trails for various fitness levels. You can find paths ranging from easy walks through mature forests to more challenging hikes, such as the 'View from Mottarone Summit – View of Lake Orta loop from Gignese,' a difficult 16.5 km route. Trails often feature views of lakes, woods, and mountains, including historical pastures around Monte Scincina. For more hiking options, explore the hiking guide for Gignese.
Absolutely. The region provides excellent cycling opportunities. For instance, the 'Mottarone Climb from Armeno' is a popular route offering fantastic views. You can find various cycling routes, including the 'Casello Strada Borromea – Mottarore loop from Gignese,' which is a difficult 18.5 km ride. For more cycling adventures, check out the cycling guide for Gignese and the gravel biking guide for Gignese.
The mountains around Gignese are rich in natural beauty. Monte Mottarone is encircled by mature forests of pine, fir, larch, beech, and chestnut, interspersed with alpine meadows. On its slopes, you can visit the Giardino Botanico Alpinia, a century-old alpine botanical garden housing over 1,000 species.
Yes, the Sacro Monte of Orta is a significant historical and religious site located on a hill overlooking the city center. It features twenty chapels depicting important moments in the life of St. Francis of Assisi, offering a unique cultural experience.
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. In summer, the mountains transform into a vibrant wilderness of wildflowers and herbs, ideal for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. During winter, the gentle slopes of Monte Mottarone become a popular area for skiing and snowshoeing.
Monte Scincina, located between Gignese and Brovello-Carpugnino, offers an impressive 360-degree panorama. From its slopes, you can admire Lake Maggiore with Motta Rossa in the foreground, and further afield, the lakes of Varese. Its hiking itineraries pass through historical pastures like Alpe Agogna and Alpe Scincina, offering scenic views.
Monte Falò contributes to the picturesque landscapes and hiking opportunities around Gignese. While specific features are less detailed than Mottarone or Scincina, its vegetation, typically low and sparse, takes on a golden hue during certain months, adding to the scenic beauty of the area.
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking panoramic views, especially from Monte Mottarone, which offers a unique perspective of seven lakes and the Alps. The diverse trails, from easy walks to challenging climbs, and the opportunity to experience both natural beauty and thrilling activities like the Alpyland alpine coaster, are also highly appreciated.


See even more amazing summits around Gignese with these guides: