What's the Weather like in Lake Maggiore in October
Heading into the last part of the year, Lake Maggiore sees the temperatures continuing to drop and the beautiful autumn colors starting to take over. The lush forests that surround the lake turn into amazing backdrops of orange, red, brown, and yellow. Even though October is the area's wettest month, it's still a good time to visit thanks to the beautiful scenery, quiet atmosphere with fewer visitors, and changing seasons.
Rainfall
Rainfall totals hit 195 mm during this month, the highest for the year, and fall over 12 days. Unfortunately, the increased rainfall amounts combined with fewer rain days on average mean that the showers tend to be heavier and last longer. In between rain drops, you can still enjoy outdoor pursuits like hiking, mountain biking, and bird watching. This is also a good time of the year to stroll the edge of the lake and explore the little towns around the lake, such as Ascona.
Temperature
The average daily temperature during this time is 13°C (about 55°F), dropping down almost 5 degrees from the daily temperature the area experienced in September. The nighttime lows start edging toward winter temperatures, averaging 7°C (around 45°F), while highs still reach up to 18°C (about 64°F).
Average Sunshine Hours
You can expect an average of 8 hours of sunshine each day of the month, still plenty of time to get out and about.
Highest and Lowest Recorded Temperatures in October
The highest temperature ever recorded for this month in this area was 28°C (around 82°F), making for a pretty hot autumn day. The lowest recorded temperature dropped down to freezing at 0°C (about 32°F). More than likely, you won't get those extreme temperatures. You'll still want to be prepared for the cool temperatures at night with a jacket or sweater, especially if you'll be outdoors and near the water. During the day, pants, long-sleeved shirts, and light sweaters are plenty warm.
Lake Maggiore Hotels in October
Grand Hotel Des Iles Borromees
Offering high-class service in a gorgeous setting, the Grand Hotel Des Iles Borromees has numerous room options available to meet the needs of different travelers. The standard rooms have two twins, two queens, or a king bed, as well as garden or lake view. You can also choose from several different suites; really splurge and go for the Hemingway Suite with three bedrooms, living room, studio, four bathrooms, and over 240 square meters of space. The hotel also has a restaurant, bar, medical spa, and meeting rooms.
Hotel Saini Meuble
Travelers looking for affordable and comfortable accommodations in October can turn to the Hotel Saini Meuble in the town of Stresa, just steps from the town's center. The hotel was completely renovated in 2002 but has maintained traditional charm with its exposed stone walls and spiral staircase. Enjoy a cup of tea in the pretty breakfast room or take advantage of lunch and dinner deals from three local restaurants. Each room has a private bathroom, satellite television, mini bar, and telephone.
Hotel La Locanda
A four-star hotel in the heart of Volterra, Hotel La Locanda was once a convent and carefully converted to high-class accommodations. As a guest, you'll get a room with private bathroom, air-conditioning, safe, mini bar with free soda, television, and free Wi-Fi. If you're looking to upgrade, book one of the superior rooms with massage showers and whirlpool tubs or luxury suite with separate living room. You're treated to a buffet breakfast each morning and can also choose a half or full-board package.
Bars and Restaurants
Trattoria Pizzeria Manzoni
If you're looking for an authentic Italian pizza, look no further than Trattoria Pizzeria Manzoni in Luino. The restaurant makes all its pizza dough fresh each day and only uses the freshest tomatoes and mozzarella for the toppings. It's a popular spot for both locals and visitors, so expect to wait some if you go on a weekend or at night. Finish up your meal with a yummy treat from the dessert menu.
3RE Restaurant
With a unique name, the 3RE Restaurant offers visitors to the Lake Maggiore area outstanding food to match the outstanding views. The large, open, and airy dining room looks out on the lake, and in the summer months you can dine on the spacious veranda. Part of the 3RE Hotel in Sesto Calende, the restaurant has affordable prices and the helpful wait staff can help you pick the perfect meal and complementing drink.
El Gato Negro Café
For a fun night out on the town in Stresa, be sure to visit the El Gato Negro Café, serving up awesome cocktails in a laid-back atmosphere. The affordable drinks, mixed with the yummy food on the menu, make this a no-brainer when in the Lake Maggiore area. It's also open in the morning for breakfast, and you can't miss the signature cappuccino with a cat paw.
Things to do in Lake Maggiore in October
Froda Waterfall
The Froda Waterfall is another natural wonder found outside the town of Nasca and San Antonio. The path to reach the waterfall is easy to navigate and perfect for younger kids or those with mobility issues. During the wet season in October, the trails can get muddy, but overall it's an easy hike and well worth it to see the beautiful waterfalls. The hike goes through dense forests, so you're sure to spot some woodland creatures too.
Pumpkin Festival
With the changing autumn colors, this month is a great time to check out the Pumpkin Festival in Santa Maria Maggiore. The town comes alive with all kinds of autumn fun like decorations, costumes, food tastings, music, craft workshops for kids, and of course, lots and lots of pumpkins. Typically, the festival takes place toward the middle of the month and includes a weekend full of festivities.
Lago Maggiore Expressissimo
For a birds-eye view of the area, take a helicopter tour with Lago Maggiore Expressissimo. The 45-minute tour takes you over Lake Maggiore, giving you a unique view of the Borromea Islands. You'll take off from Locarno and fly over the valleys of Centovalli, Santa Maria Maggiore, Val Grande National Park, and Pino. During the flight, the pilot points out the various sights and answers questions about the area.
