Italy
Get away from the package tourist hordes of Como and Garda to beautiful and little-known Lake Orta with its stunning villas, mysterious island and mythical serpent. If you can, rent an apartment or a villa directly onto the lake – open the back gate and you can head straight in to the cool, clear water for a swim.
Make your way from Milan to Orta Miasino train station, 3k from the centre.
Google map: tinyurl.com/33ky4mb