Laveno, between history and landscape
The centre of the town, where Portolabieno is located, overlooks a wide natural bay facing Verbania. At the ends of the gulf you can admire two small forts, defensive structures dating back to the Austrian domination.
The heart of Laveno's old town retains almost intact its eighteenth-century look of narrow streets and courtyards. The lakeside promenade, lined with bars, outdoor seating and shops, is a popular place for a stroll, especially on public holidays. Tuesday hosts a large market.
Culture and tradition
In the hamlet of Cerro, also part of the municipality of Laveno Mombello, stands Palazzo Perabò, home to the International Museum of Ceramic Design (Civica Raccolta di Terraglie). The museum displays everyday objects and beautiful works of art born from Laveno's ceramic tradition.
Events
Events such as the Ferragosto (15 August) fireworks display, the MIPAM (exhibition of mountain products and animals) in August, and the underwater Nativity scene during the Christmas season draw large crowds every year.
Views and connections
From the town centre, a cable car climbs to the top of Monte Sasso del Ferro (1,100 m a.s.l.), from where you can admire a wonderful view over Lake Maggiore, the Borromean Islands, the Monte Rosa range, the pre-Alpine peaks and other lakes.
Laveno is one of the main ports on Lake Maggiore: from the pier, public boat services reach all the Italian and Swiss towns along the shore. Two railway stations, Ferrovie Nord and Ferrovie dello Stato, connect Laveno with the most important centres in Italy and Switzerland.
Not to be missed nearby
Picturesque lakeside villages with charming little harbours line the shores of the lake. Among the most interesting attractions:
- The Borromean Islands
- Santa Caterina del Sasso
- The botanical gardens of Villa Taranto
- The fortress of Angera
- The castles of Cannero
