Many of the readers who write to me are traveling to Stresa with their young children. Often, they are concerned about whether the little ones will enjoy the area. I think the best advice is the same that would pertain to traveling with children anywhere. Don't overload them, don't expect them to enjoy too many non-age-appropriate things, and don't tire them out but then expect them to sit through long restaurant meals with you. Let's keep their interests in mind too; after all, it's also their vacation.

That said, fortunately several of the most popular attractions in Stresa will, by their very nature, keep both young and old entertained. Here are some kid-friendly activities right in Stresa that you'll all enjoy together:

Parco and Zoo Pallavicino: The zoo that is also a garden, or, is it the garden with a zoo? Either way, jump on the little trenino train at the Stresa imbarcadero and spend some time visiting both plants and animals. Make sure you stop for a snack at the Scuderia, which is the beautiful restaurant in the renovated stable of the villa property. There's also a playground for children on the property. Read a bit more about Parco and Zoo Pallavicino here.

The Stresa/Mottarone Cablecar: All ages will love the Stresa-Mottarone cablecar, because it quickly rises above Lago Maggiore for the twenty-minute ride up to the top of Mt. Mottarone. Up top, there's room to run around, have a picnic, and enjoy breathtaking views of seven lakes and Alpyland, the fun toboggan ride for all the family.

The Playground: This one's just for them. but why not make it into a nice pause for yourself also? The Stresa playground is located directly on the lungolago, next to Ristorante Verbanella and across the street from the Regina Palace Hotel. It's free and open to all, and has plentiful benches in sun and shade, in view full view of the lake. So, while the kids are burning off some energy, why not purchase a panini for takeaway from Verbanella or elsewhere in town, a bottle of water for all, and catch up on some reading or postcard writing.

Some other thoughts for children are a visit to one of the beaches or pools, ferry boat rides to the islands, or a visit to La Rocca in Angera, the medieval Borromeo fortress with torture chambers and a doll museum, something for everyone.