Travel Highlights (Part 2): The Nature and Classicism of Varese and Novara
Our Italian journey with VALORO has come to a close. For our final leg, we experienced the fusion of art and nature in the tranquil city of Varese, culminating in an authentic Piedmontese lunch in Novara, marking the end of our trip.
▪️ Varese | A Secluded Art Nouveau Palace
Varese, a tranquil town nestled at the southern foot of the Alps. Gently embraced by sprawling parks and lakes, it's only a 40-minute drive from Milan, yet feels like stepping into another world.
Our hotel, the Palace Grand Hotel Varese, designed in 1911 by Giuseppe Sommaruga, a leading architect of the Italian Art Nouveau movement, is hidden amidst the greenery of Colle Campigli park. The five-story building offers views from some rooms of the shimmering waters of Lake Varese and the majestic silhouette of the Alps.
Stepping inside is like stepping back into the golden age of the early 20th century: elegant colonnades, winding wrought-iron staircases, dazzling chandeliers, and precious reliefs on the walls—every detail whispers of bygone gentleness. Stroll along the neoclassical-style verandas, listen to the melodious birdsong, admire the blooming peonies, and experience a ritualistic Italian morning.
▪️ Novara | Savor Authentic Piedmontese Flavors
Our trip to Novara began with a visit to the renowned SIVA leather factory. Afterwards, Giada invited us to explore the city center and discover authentic Piedmontese flavors. We wandered through Novara's heart, passing the city landmark Castello Sforzesco, and finally nestled deep in the old town at a traditional bistro called "Osteria."
This is a local favorite, where we savored classic Piedmontese dishes and authentic wines. From the smooth eggplant puree to the sweet scallops and lobster, every bite was a taste of local flavor, bringing this Italian journey to a perfect close with unforgettable culinary memories.
Looking back on this trip spanning six cities, each city was like a key, unlocking a door of inspiration for VALORO. These precious perceptions and emotions will slowly seep into the brand's fabric, ultimately transforming into the poetry and charm of the sofa in your living room.