Stresa

Stresa is a resort town on Italy's Lake Maggiore. Landmark buildings include Villa Pallavicino, with its gardens and zoo, and the Grand Hôtel des Îles Borromées, where author Hemingway once stayed. Boats run from the waterfront to the Borromean Islands, home to palazzos, villas, a fishing port and the Museum of Dolls and Toys. Overlooking the lake, Monte Mottarone features a bobsled rollercoaster and botanic gardens.