Isola San Giulio, Italy: Off The Beaten Path

 

Peeking up out of Lake Orta, just 400 meters from shore, the fairytale Isola San Giulio emerges from the rippling waves in the form of a beautiful and quaint village. With soaring mountains as the backdrop, and with picturesque architecture in both renaissance and baroque styles, the tiny island is irresistibly photogenic.

 

As you first arrive at the dock, follow the “way of silence and meditation,” a narrow street that meanders around the entirety of the island. Along the way, stop by the Romanesque Basilica di San Giulio (a 19th century seminary, and the top attraction of St. Julius Island), the bishop’s palace, and the Benedictine abbey. This abbey is still a permanent convent of cloistered nuns who devote themselves to prayer, study, restoration of church vestments, and making the famous “pane di San Giulio.”

 

© Frank Bach | Dreamstime.com

 

There are a handful of mansions to visit while exploring the secluded island, including Villa Perone and Villa Crespi, both of which are magnificently styled with gardens. Most of the other buildings on the Isola San Giulio are private residences, though one of the oldest, Villa Tallone, opens yearly to host classical concerts.

 

With a rich history, and a whole lot of beauty and character, St. Julius Island is a perfect day trip for those traveling within the Piedmont area of Italy and looking for a remote adventure.

 

Featured image: © Thegateagency – Dreamstime.com