4-Star Hotels in Ternate

For a taste of Lombardy beyond the well-trodden paths, consider Ternate.

This small town sits on the southern shore of Lake Varese, offering a quiet, lakeside atmosphere with a direct view of the Isolino Virginia, a UNESCO prehistoric pile-dwelling site.

The main draw is the relaxed access to the water; you can rent a rowboat from the small marina, cycle the quiet lakeside path towards Gavirate, or simply enjoy an aperitivo with views of the distant Alps. History feels present at the 16th-century Villa Cagnola, whose elegant gardens are occasionally open for visits. Ternate is ideal for couples or solo travelers seeking a peaceful retreat focused on nature and slow travel. It’s less suited for those wanting nightlife or extensive shopping. The town is compact, so staying anywhere near the lakefront puts you within easy walking distance of everything. While having a car is useful for exploring the wider Varese province, the Varese train station is about a 15-minute drive away, providing connections to Milan Malpensa Airport and Milan city center. Accommodation here is dominated by a handful of charming, family-run guesthouses and small hotels, with a focus on personal service and local character. On HOTEVI, you’ll find options like the Hotel Lido di Ternate, a classic lakefront hotel perfect for those who want to step directly from their room to the water’s edge.