Lake Maggiore’s little sister, Lake Orta, may be smaller in size but it’s certainly big on beauty. In fact its reputation as one of ‘the lakes’ best kept secrets means that not even many Italians have heard about it. An easy day trip from Lake Maggiore by excursion or hire car, Orta San Giulio and its monastic island are well worth the visit. Regular taxi boats take you back and forth to the Island for a couple of euros. I think the secrets out!!