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The provinces of Novara and of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola are lands on the borders of Piemonte, Lombardia and Switzerland. The territory, which lies in the southern part of the plain of Padania, extends northwards to the arc of the Alps and offers extremely interesting settings which place it at the forefront of the tourist regions of Piemonte.
A varied environment, which goes from the green plains to the fertile hills; from the imposing mountains rich in pastures and snow-fields to the sparkling lakes with which this zone is particularly rich. Green valleys and shining glaciers alternate with gorges and waterfalls; natural parks and protected reserves offer surprising walks among the fauna and flora; folklore and craftsmanship conserve the ancient traditions of a land full of opportunities for entertainment and relaxation.
The intact natural beauty of numerous localities and the traditional hospitality give these two regions an indisputable vocation for tourism.
The manufacturing activities of the provinces of Novara and Verbano-Cusio-Ossola are extremely varied. The numerous companies operating in the territory supply internal and foreign markets, with dynamism, capacity for innovation and highly specialised products. In the metalworking industry the production of taps and valves and household goods are fundamental. This is concentrated in the zone of Cusio, especially along the eastern shores of the lake of Orta. The textile industry boasts an antique tradition, as do the publishing and paper producing industries. Notable sectors are the construction, installation and building industries, with companies increasingly making their mark on an international level. The crafts industry is also significant with workers in wood, ceramics and producers of furniture and toys.
On the level of natural resources the extraction of marble and granite are important, as is the use of springs to produce table water and water noted for its curative powers. In the food sector the cheese producers are particularly important: Novara is the headquarters of the Union for the Guardianship of Gorgonzola Cheese. In the agricultural sector rice production is the most significant source of income in the plains of Novara while in the hilly zones excellent red and white wines are produced. Highly specialised floriculture is found in the Verbano region, especially that of camellias, azaleas and rhododendrons.
In all the territory of the two provinces the tourism activities are extremely interesting, the reception facilities are varied and complete in the grand tradition of the hotel trade. |
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The Orta Lake
A serene mirror of water in which is reflected green hills and mountains. Thus the Lake of Orta appears almost unexpectedly to visitors and thus it remains in the memory. On a headland jutting into the lake from its eastern bank lies Orta, with its unforgettable Piazza Motta (Motta Square). In front, the legendary small island of St. Giulio with its Romanesque basilica and the Bishop's Palace.
The road unfurls overlooking the coast in a varied and picturesque landscape where splendid villas surrounded by age-old parks can be seen. On the banks, old houses and steep pathways paved with stones invite one to discover excellent restaurants, sports clubs and beaches. In panoramic positions, immersed in green and sunshine, numerous holiday spots join the tranquillity of visits in search of art and history.
Important cultural attractions are to be found in the churches, cloisters, art collections and museums. Among the latter a special mention goes to the Tap Museum, in San Maurizio d'Opaglio: a complete display of historical pieces showing the birth and evolution of faucets and its fallout for the territory and the economy in the district.
Artisan activities - woodwork, tap factories and household goods - present interesting opportunities for shopping in the factory shops.
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Ossola Valleys
The bed of the river Toce marks the Ossola and its valleys which face each other over lake Orta and Lake Maggiore. This land is rich in surprises: from the waterfalls of Frua to the limpid little lakes, from the imposing mass of Monte Rosa to the large natural parks where, walking amidst the protected nature, one can discover the signs of history.
Nestling among the mountains, little villages offer craftsmanship, folklore and also cultural and artistic attractions. In the valleys of Ossola, tourism is not confined to any particular season. Ski installations, cable cars, ski-lifts, cross-country ski trails, skating and ice hockey rinks, all meet the requirements of the winter holidaymaker.
The possibilities are equally good for a summer visit: horse-riding, tennis, swimming pools, archery, exercise trails and rock climbing. The tourist-reception facilities (hotels, pensions, campsites, restaurants) are ample and varied enough to satisfy all requirements and to guarantee that the valleys of Ossola are a classic tourist destination. |
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Novara
Is known as "The gentle land between two rivers", but Novara is much more. Ancient - dating back to the Roman period, from which some remains are extant - Novara was particularly important in the medieval period, as numerous well preserved castles and retreats testify.
The town centre is a catalogue of historical elements: the seventeenth century buildings, the Coccia theatre, the Dome of Antonelli, the octagonal Romanesque baptistery, the medieval Broletto (court of Justice in the Lombard communes). All of the above are dominated by the Cupola (dome), built by Antonelli, of the Basilica of St. Gaudenzio, which is the symbol of the town.
The surrounding countryside and hills abound with villages where pleasant discoveries can be made of culture spreading its roots in a farming world.
The cuisine here is simple but very tasty: rice, various types of salami, fish from rivers and lakes, the typical world-famous "gorgonzola" cheese, excellent D.O.C. and D.O.C.G. wines. Particular care is taken of the territory, which boasts many protected areas: the most important is the "Natural Park of the Valley of the Ticino", the "blue river" which marks the border with the nearby region of Lombardia. |
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