Lake Maggiore

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a passage through massive morainic walls, preserves the name of Ticino. The northern part of the lake is enclosed by mountains, for the most part wooded, while towards the south the shores slope down to the plain of Lombardy. In clear weather the water in the northern part of the lake is green, in the southern part deep blue. The climate is mild. From midnight until morning the tramontana blows, usually coming from the north; from midday until the evening the inverna blows from the south. The plant life of Lake Maggiore, like that of Lakes Garda and Como, includes many sub-tropical species: figs, olives and pomegranates flourish in the mild climate, and in August the myrtle blossoms. On the Borromean Islands lemons, oranges, cork-oaks, sago-palms and carob-trees grow.

The most popular tourist areas are around Ascona and Locarno and the Borromean Islands. One very attractive excursion is a boat trip from Locarno to Arona (service through the year, twice daily in summer; also hydrofoil services), calling alternatively at places on the east and west sides of the lake.

Day trips, etc., from Locarno to Stresa and to the Italian markets of Luino, Cannobio and Verbania- Intra. Connections (also by hydrofoil) between the Swiss Brissago Islands and the Borromean Islands of Italy.