Imagine sailing across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Maggiore and catching sight of the ruins of ancient fortresses, seemingly suspended in mid-air, rising from the surface.
These are the Castles of Cannero, romantic and intriguing landmarks that emerge between water and sky, perfect for enhancing your stay on Lake Maggiore.
Located on two of the three rocky islets off the coast of Cannero Riviera, these fascinating “ruins” tell a story of centuries of history and mystery.
A trip down memory lane
Malpaga Castle: built between the 11th and 12th centuries, it became a stronghold in the 15th century of the fearsome Mazzardi brothers, known as the “Mazzarditi” or “lake pirates,” who carried out raids and imposed a reign of terror.
The Visconti’s Revenge: In 1414, Filippo Maria Visconti sent an army that destroyed Malpaga, bringing an end to that private kingdom.
Rocca Vitaliana: Between 1519 and 1521, Ludovico Borromeo built a new fortification on the site, dedicating it to his ancestor, Vitaliano Borromeo. The aim is to defend the northern shore of the lake and the border with Switzerland.
From ruins to legends
In the centuries that followed, the castles were gradually abandoned: they became hideouts for smugglers, citrus groves, rabbit warrens, and even a refuge for Garibaldi, according to popular tradition.
In the 18th century, they fell into ruin, but continued to be immortalized by writers, painters, and evocative legends: tales speak of a ghost ship, the clanging of swords, and sunken treasures.
An open-air museum
A visit to the Castles is a truly immersive experience: after more than a decade of conservation restoration commissioned by the Borromeo family and overseen by Studio Simonetti Architettura of Turin, the Castles were finally reopened to the public this year, on June 28, 2025
The “Cannero Walking Tales” project transforms the ruins into an open-air museum, a physical and narrative journey where the site tells its own story through geolocated audio guides, augmented reality installations, and projections, sounds, and atmospheres that bring the ruins to life without compromising their authenticity.
How to get there: by boat only
Access is only possible by boat: the ticket includes a shuttle from Cannero Riviera and an interactive audio guide (available in multiple languages). The boat ride—whether solar-powered or traditional—adds a touch of magic to the journey
The Castles of Cannero are a must-see destination: a captivating blend of culture, scenery, and immersive experiences.
When you return from your visit, you can relax in our living room or in the shade of a cozy pergola. Our hotel bar offers cocktails, drinks, and aperitifs.
