Laveno-Mombello, a charming municipality located on the shores of the Lombard shore of Lake Maggiore, lies between Leggiuno and Porto Valtravaglia, forming a crossroads between the blue charm of the lake and the green embrace of the surrounding mountains. Overlooked by the majestic Mount Sasso del Ferro, with its imposing 1062 metres, the town stands as the undisputed tourist capital of this part of Lake Maggiore.
The Laveno Mombello landing stage, with its ferry service, efficiently connects the Lombard shore with Intra di Verbania on the Piedmont shore, also facilitating vehicle transport. This accessibility has made Laveno a popular destination for tourists and visitors in all seasons.
The history of Laveno-Mombello is steeped in events spanning centuries. Its strategic location has attracted the attention of various armies, from the Romans to the illustrious Visconti, Sforza and Borromeo families, up to the epochal events led by Garibaldi. However, the roots of this place go back to ancient times, with traces of a pile-dwelling settlement dating back as far as 3000 BC.
The town centre is located in a picturesque natural inlet of the lake, embraced by two forts positioned at the northern and southern ends of the gulf. Laveno-Mombello is a fascinating blend of thousand-year history, breathtaking scenery and cultural authenticity, which continues to attract visitors eager to explore its beauty and immerse themselves in its rich heritage.
What to see and do in laveno mombello
Churches of Laveno-Mombello
Laveno-Mombello is enriched by several churches, but two in particular stand out as spiritual fulcrums of the place. The Provost Church of Saints Philip and James, known as the Old Church, has a history that goes back as far as 1315. In that year, there is mention of an ancient chapel in the heart of the village, dedicated to St James. The second, the Church of Sant’Ambrogio, known as the New Church, was built around 1940 to a design by architect Paolo Mezzanotte. It houses frescoes of great artistic value by Innocente Salvini, while the exterior sculptures bear the signature of Egidio Casarotti.
Villa De Angeli – Frua
The historic centre of Laveno-Mombello is enriched by the presence of the magnificent Villa De Angeli Frua, an elegant aristocratic residence dating back to the mid-1700s. Originally built by the wealthy Laveno Tinelli family, the villa changed hands at the end of the 19th century, being acquired by the De Angeli Frua family, whose name it still bears today. Surrounded by a vast botanical park, the villa boasts centuries-old trees and aromatic herbs typical of the region.
The entire complex came under the municipal administration of Laveno Mombello and also houses the town’s library, one of the largest in the province of Varese with over 50,000 volumes. As well as being an architectural jewel, Villa De Angeli Frua continues to play a significant role in the cultural life of the local community.
Sasso del Ferro cable car:
Take the cable car up to Sasso del Ferro for spectacular panoramic views. From the top, admire Lake Maggiore, the Borromean Islands and the peaks of the Alps.
Laveno lakeside:
Stroll along Laveno’s lakeside promenade, where picturesque cafés and restaurants offer breathtaking views. Enjoy a relaxing break and admire the ferries that ply the lake.
Taste Local Flavours
Dine in lakeside restaurants and savour the delicacies of Lombardy’s cuisine. Indulge in traditional dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients.
