Orta San Giulio is a small town situated on a rocky promontory above Lake Orta. The picturesque location, historic buildings and the Alps visible from every place make it an exceptionally attractive place for a trip during a visit to Piedmont.
The city is concentrated on a small area of a rocky headland. It is forbidden to use cars. The streets are narrow, paved and very winding. They lead between high tenement houses standing close to each other. The highlight of Orta San Giulio is Motta Square. Numerous restaurants, cafés and bars can be found around. From here, the most important streets of the city spread out, including those leading to the marina.
Lake Orta has a special charm, mainly because of its surroundings. The forested hills and the higher and higher Alps on the horizon create a wonderful setting. In front of the marina is the small island of San Giulio with a Benedictine convent and the Romanesque Basilica of San Giulio. You can get to the island by regular boats from the town.
Another Orta San Giulio attraction is the off-road hill of Santo Monte di Orta. It is known for the pilgrimage chapel built in the Baroque style. It is one of 20 such chapels in Piedmont, and Santo Monte di Orta, along with 9 other locations, is included in the UNESCO list.
