Ghiffa

Ghiffa is tranquil town that lies lazily on the shore of Lake Maggiore. It stretches out along the water's edge with some lovely Liberty-style villas lending a touch of class to the hamlet. Ghiffa enjoys lake and mountain views with a casual, relaxing atmosphere.

It is best known for its unique UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sacred Mountain of the Most Holy Trinity, better known simply as the Sacro Monte di Ghiffa. The nature park covers hundreds of hectare of uncontaminated mountain terrain, sprinkled with spiritual sanctuaries. Trails lead into the hills and wend through the woods.

Ghiffa has another unusual attraction - the Museo del Cappello (the Hat Museum). Dedicated to classic felt hat that was once a male necessity, the museum traces the history and manufacture of the fashion item that was once the source of a thriving trade here. Entrance is free; the museum is open on weekend afternoons from April through October.