|
In the spring we enjoyed a holiday in Italy, where we visited Milan and Stresa a pretty resort on the beautiful Lake Maggiore
We also dined at some fabulous restaurants.
Milan
Milan cathedral in the heart of the city. It took over 500 years for it to be built with the work starting in 14th century and finishing in 1965.
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is an elegant nineteenth century shopping arcade with a magnificant glass roof and luxury shops.
La Scala is one of the world's most prestigious opera houses. It was built in the 1700s by Empress Maria Theresa of Austria.
The Sforza Castle, a medieval castle has been extensively rebuilt over the centuries and now houses Milan's museum and art collections.
In Piazza Cadorna the gigantic Needle, Thread and Knot sculpture created by pop artist, Claes Oldenburg is a tribute to Milan's fashion industry.
Stresa, Lake Maggiore
We took the scenic train journey to Stresa, a chic resort on Lake Maggiore, the second largest lake in Italy.
The view of the lake from our hotel with the snow capped peaks of the Alps making a stunning bacdrop.
The lakeside promenade with views of the Borromean Islands.
We took a boat tour to visit the famous Isola Bella.
The Palazzo Borromeo. Inside this luxurious 17th century baroque palace we marvelled at the ornate halls and the lavish interiors decorated in different types of marble and admired the terraced gardens where white peacocks roam.
The pretty town of Stresa is known for its boutique shops, restaurants and stylish Art Nouveau hotels. At the end of World War I Ernest Hemingway stayed at the Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees. Later he set part of his novel 'Farewell to Arms' in the hotel.
Recommended restaurants
Milan
Il Principe dei Navigli
In the canal district, an upscale unpretentious restaurant featuring murals depicting canal scenes.
Antica Osteria Avallini
The restaurant offers refined Milanese classic dishes and has a charming garden courtyard.
See other holiday photos.
|
|