Lake Maggiore: Boat to Santa Caterina from Feriolo

If you’re looking to experience the charm of Lake Maggiore beyond just looking at it, a boat trip to Santa Caterina del Sasso offers a wonderfully authentic way to see the lake’s beauty and history. This tour, offered from Feriolo, takes you on a roughly two-hour journey that combines scenic sailing with a chance to explore one of the lake’s most iconic sites.

What makes this experience stand out is the chance to enjoy breathtaking views of the lake’s shimmering waters and surrounding mountains, as well as the opportunity to wander freely around the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso. On the downside, the tour’s short 2-hour window might feel a bit rushed for those wanting a more in-depth visit. Still, it’s a superb choice for travelers who value efficient, picturesque excursions that blend nature and history. Perfect for families, couples, or anyone eager to get a taste of Lake Maggiore’s allure without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Scenic boat cruise around Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands
• Opportunity to visit Santa Caterina del Sasso at your own pace
• Affordable pricing, including family offers
• Multilingual captains enhance the experience
• Includes scenic views and a historic site in one trip
• Not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to the nature of the journey

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why This Tour Might Be Just Right for You

We find this boat tour to be a well-rounded introduction to Lake Maggiore, especially if your goal is to combine spectacular scenery and a touch of Italian history. The boat ride from Feriolo is convenient and offers a relaxed way to see the lake’s landscape up close, with the added bonus of visiting Santa Caterina del Sasso, a hermitage built into a cliff face that’s both visually striking and full of character.

This experience is particularly attractive because of its value; for a modest price, you get a scenic cruise, a visit to a historic site, and the chance to enjoy some of Italy’s natural beauty. It’s a flexible tour, with options for a family package, making it accessible for parents traveling with small children. Plus, it’s designed with simplicity in mind—no complicated schedules, just a straightforward, beautifully orchestrated outing.

The tour is perfect if you want to see the highlights of Lake Maggiore without a full-day commitment. The short duration fits well into a broader itinerary and provides a satisfying snapshot of the lake’s charm. Keep in mind, however, that if you’re craving a more in-depth or leisurely exploration, you might want to supplement this with additional visits or longer tours.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

The adventure begins at Via Giuseppe Mazzini, 3 in Feriolo. From here, you’ll board a water taxi, which takes approximately 30 minutes to reach Santa Caterina del Sasso. The boat rides are described as scenic, with multilingual captains providing commentary—helpful for understanding the sights in your preferred language.

Once at Santa Caterina, you’ll have around two hours to explore at your own pace. The hermitage, perched on a raw rock wall on the Lombard shore, is a testament to Italian resilience and faith, with its deep waters reflecting its silhouette. Visitors consistently mention the stunning views and the unique atmosphere of this historic site.

After your visit, you’ll return to the starting point, completing a roughly two-hour round trip that balances travel, sightseeing, and free exploration. The entire experience is designed to be easy and flexible, with a focus on sightseeing and cultural appreciation rather than strict schedules.

What to Expect During the Boat Ride

The boat cruise itself is a highlight. Expect to see beautiful scenery, with a chance to admire the lake’s calm waters and the surrounding mountains. The boat provides an excellent vantage point for photography—whether it’s the shimmering reflections or the distant islands. The scenic views are highly praised in reviews, with travelers emphasizing how the landscape looks even more impressive in person.

The boat trip also offers a different perspective on Lake Maggiore’s Borromean Islands, even if the main focus is Santa Caterina del Sasso. The captain’s multilingual commentary adds an educational element, enriching the visual experience with interesting tidbits about the area.

Visiting Santa Caterina del Sasso: What You’ll Find

The Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso is the star of the tour, and for good reason. Built into a cliff face, this monastery and church complex appears to grow organically from the rock itself. Visitors often comment on the dramatic setting—the reflection of the hermitage in the deep waters below creates an almost surreal scene.

You’re free to explore the hermitage at your own pace, giving you time to wander through its small chapels, cloisters, and viewing points. The entrance fee is modest—just 5 euros for adults—and children under 17 go free, making it an accessible cultural stop.

The site’s history adds to its appeal. Though detailed historical explanations aren’t included in the tour info, the structure’s age and the effort required to build it into such a steep cliff are impressive enough. The views from the hermitage are considered some of the most scenic on Lake Maggiore, offering unparalleled photo opportunities.

More Great Tours Nearby

Price and Value

For just 15 euros per person (from 13 years old), this tour offers a lot of value. The fee covers the boat cruise, the visit to Santa Caterina, and the scenic views. The family package—30 euros for 2 adults and 2 children under 23 months—is particularly attractive for families wanting to introduce their kids to Italy’s lakeside charm without overspending.

Additional costs include the entrance ticket to the hermitage (5 euros per adult), which is reasonable given the unique experience it provides. Kids under 17 are free, making this a budget-friendly outing for families.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring comfortable shoes for walking around Santa Caterina del Sasso.
• A camera is essential—this place and the views are picture-perfect.
• Don’t forget sunscreen and water; even on cloudy days, the sun can be strong on the water.
• Tours depart at various times; check availability for your preferred slot.
• The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments due to the nature of the walkways and boat access.

Reviews and Real Traveler Insights

While the overall rating is a strong 4.5 from four reviews, travelers highlight the stunning scenery as the main draw. One reviewer noted, “The views of the lake and the hermitage reflected on the water are simply unforgettable,” emphasizing how much pictures do not do justice to the real thing.

Another appreciated the relaxed pace, stating, “It was just the right amount of time—enough to see the hermitage without feeling rushed.” The multilingual captain is also a plus, making the experience accessible to international visitors.

Some mention that the short duration is perfect for a quick visit, though a few wished for more time at the hermitage. But generally, the consensus is that this package offers a balanced, scenic, and culturally enriching experience.

This boat trip from Feriolo to Santa Caterina del Sasso is ideal for travelers seeking a beautiful, accessible introduction to Lake Maggiore’s landscapes and history. Its affordable price point and the chance to see iconic views make it a smart choice for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a taste of Italian lakeside life without dedicating a whole day.

If you appreciate stunning vistas and a touch of history in a relaxed setting, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially well-suited for those who prefer organized excursions that combine sightseeing with cultural exploration, without the hassle of planning every detail.

However, if your interest is in longer, more in-depth visits or you need accessibility accommodations, you might want to consider other options. Still, for a quick, scenic, and cultural outing, this boat tour offers genuine value and memorable moments.

How long does the tour last?
The boat cruise and visit take approximately 2 hours, including the time at Santa Caterina del Sasso.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Via Giuseppe Mazzini, 3 in Feriolo.

Is there a family discount?
Yes, a special family offer is available for 2 adults and 2 children under 23 months at 30 euros.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
It’s recommended to check availability and reserve your spot, especially during peak times, but you can also book last minute if space allows.

Are children allowed?
Yes. Children from 0 to 12 years old pay a reduced fee, and kids under 17 are free to enter Santa Caterina del Sasso.

Is the tour accessible to everyone?
The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to the boat and site access.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, and water. Remember to respect departure times; late arrivals may be canceled without refund.

This scenic boat tour around Lake Maggiore offers a graceful blend of natural beauty and cultural history. Whether you’re snapping photos of the grand vistas or wandering through the hermitage’s ancient halls, you’ll come away with a genuine appreciation for this enchanting corner of Italy.

You can check availability for your dates here: