Pettenasco

Pettenasco is a small village on the eastern shore of Lake Orta, in the province of Novara, Piedmont. Its lakeside setting gives it a peaceful atmosphere, with a promenade, a beach and a small harbour offering boat trips, including to the island of San Giulio and the nearby town of Orta San Giulio, known for its historic centre and Sacro Monte. Pettenasco has long been associated with wood-turning craftsmanship and the production of household goods, an industry that shaped the local economy, partly due to its proximity to Omegna, a town known for kitchenware manufacturing. The lake tempers the climate, bringing mild summers and relatively gentle winters for the region. The surrounding wooded hills offer walking trails and scenic viewpoints over the water. The village makes a quiet base for exploring Lake Orta, a smaller and less crowded alternative to nearby Lake Maggiore, while enjoying an unspoilt natural setting and genuine village charm.