Located between the Ossola valley and the western shore of lower Lake Maggiore, Lake Orta is known as one of the most romantic lakes in Italy. The pearl of the lake is Orta San Giulio and the island of the same name that faces it, a small treasure trove of history and art, a medieval village offering stately buildings, narrow streets and characteristic stone buildings. From the small harbour, you can reach the picturesque Isola di San Giulio, a small island dominated by a Romanesque church and an ancient monastery. Completing the Cusio area is Val Strona, which still preserves the traditions and culture of the past, including the working of pewter, copper, brass and, above all, wood. This is evidenced by the production of Pinocchio: