Ghiffa (approx. 2,400 inhabitants) is nestled at the foot of Monte Cargiago and boasts many villas and lush vegetation. Five golf courses can be reached within 15 to 30 minutes by car. A vast network of beautiful walking and hiking trails covers the area, and a rich array of cultural, leisure, and sports opportunities ensures there's never a dull moment. Nearby are the renowned towns of Intra and Pallanza: Intra is known for its market and the beautifully quaint old town. From Intra, you can also take the car ferry across the lake to Laveno. Pallanza, of Roman origin, offers a gorgeous, long lakeside promenade with inviting restaurants, cafés, and shops. The Botanical Gardens of Villa Taranto, covering a 20-hectare area, contain over 20,000 very rare plant species from all over the world. Additionally, from Ghiffa, you can take the ferry service to various excursion destinations. Internationally renowned holiday resorts or areas such as Ascona, Locarno, Stresa, the Borromean Islands, and Lake Orta are only up to about 30 minutes away.
A true gem of Ghiffa is the "Sacro Monte della SS. Trinità di Ghiffa," one of the new Sacred Mountains in Piedmont and Lombardy, consisting of a pilgrimage church that is not quite complete and three chapel-sized chapels from the 17th century, which depict scenes from the Old and New Testament. The complex is completed by a Way of the Cross and the chapel "Vergine Addolorata," which are decorated with the traditional themes of the Passion of Christ. In the adjacent approx. 200-hectare forested nature reserve, there are many hiking trails, a fitness course, and an idyllic restaurant with a generous outdoor area (insider tip). Guided tours of all kinds through the entire area can be booked at the local tourist association. The "Sacred Mountain" still has a fascinating aura today and conveys to the sensitive visitor a special atmosphere that, in a strange way, encourages one to reflect on oneself and find inner peace. From this special spot, you enjoy an incredibly beautiful view of the lake, the opposite shore, and the mountains.