Pella
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Latest page update: 19 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The lakeside village of Pella is situated in the Province of Novara, on the shores of Lake Orta. It has a population of around 900 residents and is located 126 kilometres north east of Turin, the regional capital of Piedmont.
Pella has somehow escaped the levels of tourism enjoyed by nearby Orta San Giulio and that's just one reason it's so special. |
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What People Ask About Pella
Where is Pella located?
Can you take a boat from Pella to Orta San Giulio?
Does Pella have a train station?
What is Pella known for?
Is Pella a good base for visiting Lake Orta?
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Discover Pella
Laid-back Pella
Of the many wonderful lakeside towns in Italy, Pella is one of the most pleasantly surprising. It hardly gets a mention in most guide books and the majority of visitors to Lake Orta will give it little more than a cursory glance from Orta San Giulio on the opposite side of the lake.
When you make your way across to the western shore of the lake, either by car or by ferry, there's a noticeably quieter and more laid-back atmosphere. That's not to suggest Orta San Giulio is in any way noisy, it's just a reflection of the much smaller number of people you'll encounter on this side of the lake.
Approaching the town from the south you walk along Via Lungo Lago, a pretty lakeside promenade where the narrow waters at the lake's edge gleam an aquamarine blue. On the land side of the tree-lined promenade the buildings are painted in bright, pastel shades giving the town a welcoming appearance.
When you make your way across to the western shore of the lake, either by car or by ferry, there's a noticeably quieter and more laid-back atmosphere. That's not to suggest Orta San Giulio is in any way noisy, it's just a reflection of the much smaller number of people you'll encounter on this side of the lake.
Approaching the town from the south you walk along Via Lungo Lago, a pretty lakeside promenade where the narrow waters at the lake's edge gleam an aquamarine blue. On the land side of the tree-lined promenade the buildings are painted in bright, pastel shades giving the town a welcoming appearance.
Around the imbarcadero
The prettiest part of the town is around the imbarcadero, the ferry port from which you can reach the other towns on the lake, along with the bucolic Isola San Giulio. Piazza Motta is the name of the famous square in the town of Orta San Giulio, directly opposite Pella across the lake, and the name is repeated here.
Pella's Piazza Motta is much smaller than its illustrious counterpart but as to which one's prettier, there's some healthy debate. Everything in Orta San Giulio is bigger and grander but it's that very understated charm that makes Pella so appealing.
There are a few restaurants with outdoor seating between Via Lungo Lago and Piazza Motta, from which you can gaze out onto the lake with its varying shades of blue and across to the pretty island.
If you continue away from the lake along the main. thoroughfare of Via Roma you shortly reach a beautiful church: the Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Albino. To the south of the town centre there's another area of interest: the little bay in the Plesna area is popular for a swim and the water here is even more appealing.
Pella's Piazza Motta is much smaller than its illustrious counterpart but as to which one's prettier, there's some healthy debate. Everything in Orta San Giulio is bigger and grander but it's that very understated charm that makes Pella so appealing.
There are a few restaurants with outdoor seating between Via Lungo Lago and Piazza Motta, from which you can gaze out onto the lake with its varying shades of blue and across to the pretty island.
If you continue away from the lake along the main. thoroughfare of Via Roma you shortly reach a beautiful church: the Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Albino. To the south of the town centre there's another area of interest: the little bay in the Plesna area is popular for a swim and the water here is even more appealing.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Pella
- Historic lakeside promenade offers uninterrupted views across Lake Orta towards Orta San Giulio and the island. The promenade includes benches, a small harbour and access to mooring points for ferries. Stone buildings and narrow lanes lead from the water’s edge into the older part of the town.
- Church of San Filiberto stands just outside the centre in a quiet position by the lake. Dating from the 11th century, it features Romanesque architecture, a series of frescoes and a row of chapels known as the Via Crucis. The peaceful setting and historical atmosphere make it one of the area’s most distinctive sites.
- Sant’Albino viewpoint is located above the town and accessible via a footpath or short drive. The small chapel marks a panoramic spot with views of the lake, island and surrounding hills. A visit combines well with walking routes through local woods and meadows. It’s popular for photography and quiet stops.
- Walking and cycling routes connect Pella to nearby villages such as Ronco and Cesara. Trails follow old mule tracks, lakefront paths and forested slopes, offering a mix of scenery and access to small chapels, shrines and picnic spots. Routes are suitable for moderate levels of fitness and are well signposted.
- Ferry services and lake activities run from the small harbour and offer direct links to Orta San Giulio and the island. Ferries operate more frequently in summer, with occasional stops at lesser-known lakeside hamlets. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also available locally, depending on season and weather.
Pella Tours and Activities
Comune di Pella
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Province: Novara
Region: Piedmont Population: 870 (in 2024 - source) Size: 8 km² Elevation: 305 metres Highlights: lakeside promenade, restaurants, Via Roma Close by: Ronco Marina, Alzo, Isola San Giulio, Omegna |
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Pella
- Casa Fantini – Lake Time Located on the lakefront overlooking Isola San Giulio, this luxury boutique hotel offers elegant, design-focused rooms with balconies, a garden with a lakeside pool, and an exceptional on-site restaurant. Guests appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, refined interiors, and outstanding service. €€€€ (luxury)
- B&B Torre San Rocco Set in a historic stone building in the centre of Pella, this charming B&B offers rustic-style rooms with wooden beams, lake or garden views, and homemade breakfast. Visitors enjoy the character of the property, warm hospitality, and short walk to the lakefront. €€ (mid-range)
- Appartamento Lungolago A spacious holiday apartment facing the lake, featuring two bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with panoramic views. Guests value the central location, convenience for exploring the western shore of Lake Orta, and proximity to cafés and ferry services. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B il Barsot Located just above Pella in a quiet residential area, this family-run bed and breakfast offers simple, clean rooms, a garden, and views over the lake and surrounding hills. Guests appreciate the tranquillity, friendly hosts, and homemade breakfast. €€ (mid-range)
- La Casa sul Lago A lakeside apartment offering a balcony right above the water, a small kitchen, and direct access to the promenade. Visitors enjoy the unique position for watching sunsets over the lake and the short ferry ride across to Orta San Giulio. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Pella
- Ristorante Imbarcadero: Located directly on the lakefront, Imbarcadero offers scenic views of Lake Orta and Isola San Giulio alongside a menu focused on seafood and regional specialities. Dishes include risotto with perch, fresh pasta, and lake fish served with seasonal vegetables. The setting is elegant and ideal for a long lunch or dinner by the water. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Osteria del Gallo: Found in the centre of Pella, this small osteria specialises in traditional Piedmontese cooking, with options such as tajarin with ragu, brasato al vino rosso, and local cheeses. The atmosphere is rustic and friendly, with a concise but well-executed menu. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- La Piazzetta: A casual spot near the main piazza, La Piazzetta offers a variety of pizzas, salads, and Italian comfort food. It’s a convenient option for a light lunch or informal evening meal, with outdoor tables available in warmer months. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
- Ristorante San Filiberto: Situated in Ronco (about 2.5 km from Pella), this elegant lakeside restaurant provides panoramic views and a menu that blends traditional and modern Italian cuisine. Highlights include seafood risottos, creative antipasti, and homemade desserts. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Trattoria Belvedere: Located in Cesara (around 8 km from Pella), this trattoria offers hearty local dishes in a relaxed setting. Expect mountain flavours such as polenta, mushrooms, game meats, and generous antipasti, all served in a traditional alpine-style dining room. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Pella Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Pella
If you have a car, you'll reach Pella having passed through the neighbouring town of Alzo; it's worth stopping there in the pretty village centre from where you can get some great views out onto the lake. You can also take the quiet road north of Pella to the tiny village area of Ronco Marina, another pretty spot.
Most people will visit Pella from the water, either from Orta San Giulio or from Omegna at the top of the lake. Both towns are among the prettiest lakeside towns in Italy and of course the tiny island of Isola San Giulio is a must if you're in the area. Behind Orta San Giulio is a steep hill which is home of the Sacro Monte di Orta, a religious sanctuary which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Most people will visit Pella from the water, either from Orta San Giulio or from Omegna at the top of the lake. Both towns are among the prettiest lakeside towns in Italy and of course the tiny island of Isola San Giulio is a must if you're in the area. Behind Orta San Giulio is a steep hill which is home of the Sacro Monte di Orta, a religious sanctuary which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Beyond Lake Orta
Lake Orta lies a short distance to the west of Lake Maggiore which is in itself a treasure trove of sights. Highlights on the Piedmont (western) shore of the lake include Verbania and Stresa while to the south of both lakes lie the cities of Novara and Milan.
For something a little different, and this is if you have a car, there's the beautiful historic town of Varallo Sesia, directly to the west of Pella. Although it's just 25 kilometres away, it takes around 40 minutes as the road is steep and winding.
For international travellers, the best way to reach Lake Orta is by flying into Milan Malpensa Airport which is a 50 minute (48 km) drive away. Public transport facilities into Lake Orta aren't as well developed as those into Lake Maggiore so unless you have a car, the options are a little limited.
For something a little different, and this is if you have a car, there's the beautiful historic town of Varallo Sesia, directly to the west of Pella. Although it's just 25 kilometres away, it takes around 40 minutes as the road is steep and winding.
For international travellers, the best way to reach Lake Orta is by flying into Milan Malpensa Airport which is a 50 minute (48 km) drive away. Public transport facilities into Lake Orta aren't as well developed as those into Lake Maggiore so unless you have a car, the options are a little limited.
Piedmont Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Piedmont
1. Orta San Giulio
2. Lake Maggiore
3. Langhe
4. Turin
5. Borromean Islands
6. Monferrato
7. Reggia di Venaria Reale
8. Asti
9. Val di Susa
10. Barolo
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Piedmont
1. Orta San Giulio
2. Lake Maggiore
3. Langhe
4. Turin
5. Borromean Islands
6. Monferrato
7. Reggia di Venaria Reale
8. Asti
9. Val di Susa
10. Barolo
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Piedmont
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Pella
By Rail: Pella does not have its own train station. The nearest station is in Gozzano, approximately 8 kilometres to the south, on the Novara–Domodossola line. Trenitalia regional trains connect Gozzano with Novara, Borgomanero, and Omegna. From Gozzano, Pella can be reached by local bus or taxi, with the journey taking about 15 minutes. An alternative station is in Orta-Miasino, which provides access to the eastern shore of Lake Orta.
By Road: Pella is located on the western shore of Lake Orta, in the province of Novara. It is about 45 kilometres north-west of Novara and around 20 kilometres south of Omegna. The drive from Novara takes approximately 1 hour via the A26 motorway and local roads. From Milan, the journey is roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes. Public parking is available near the lakefront and in the upper part of the town.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Pella is located on the western shore of Lake Orta, in the province of Novara. It is about 45 kilometres north-west of Novara and around 20 kilometres south of Omegna. The drive from Novara takes approximately 1 hour via the A26 motorway and local roads. From Milan, the journey is roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes. Public parking is available near the lakefront and in the upper part of the town.
Nearest International Airports:
- Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Malpensa): Located approximately 50 kilometres north-east of Pella, the drive takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes. Rail connections are available to Gozzano or Orta-Miasino with a change in Novara.
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Situated about 100 kilometres south-east, the journey takes roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes by car. Trains run from Milan to Gozzano or Orta-Miasino via Novara.
- Turin Airport (Aeroporto di Torino-Caselle): Around 120 kilometres south-west of Pella, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Travel by train is possible via Novara or Borgomanero.
