Travel Guide Premeno

Premeno, perched on the heights of Lake Maggiore, is renowned for its pioneering sports facilities: in 1903 the first tennis court in Italy was built here, where many championships were held. In 1965, Europe's first 9-hole golf course was inaugurated here. Surrounded by the forest, protected from the cold north winds by the hills, there is a mild climate. In the 19th century, Premeno attracted the wealthy Lombard bourgeois who built noble villas, such as Villa Calvi, Villa Bonomi, Villa Murari, Villa Mangiagalli and Villa Bernocchi. The latter offers exhibitions, concerts and other cultural events, especially in summer. Nearby, the village of Esio is renowned for its craftsmanship such as copper and wrought iron work, but above all cabinet-making, practiced with traditional tools. The many mountain huts in the pastures and mule tracks with votive chapels bear witness to the region's ancient rural world.