How to reach the Winter School location
Mind the Gap Winter School 2026 takes place at the Centro di Spiritualità “Maria Candida” in Armeno, a quiet hill village above Lake Orta in northern Italy.
Venue
Centro di Spiritualità “Maria Candida”
Viale Cadorna 19
28011 Armeno (NO), Italy
Website:
www.centromariacandida.it
Google Maps:
Open in Google Maps
How to get there
By car
Take the A26 motorway (Genova Voltri – Gravellona Toce) and exit at Borgomanero. Follow signs for Lago d’Orta and then take the provincial road SP 39 (Miasino – Armeno) up to Armeno.
By train
The nearest local station is Orta-Miasino on the Novara–Domodossola line (about 3 km from the venue).
Alternatively, you can arrive at Arona on the Milano–Arona line and then continue by local bus or taxi (about 30 minutes to Armeno).
By air
The closest major airport is Milan Malpensa (MXP), approximately 50 km from Armeno. From Malpensa you can continue by train (via Arona or Novara) plus bus/taxi, or arrange a private transfer.
A glimpse of the venue
What to visit around Armeno & Lake Orta
If you plan to arrive earlier or stay a bit longer, the area around Armeno and Lake Orta offers a mix of nature, culture and quiet villages within short driving distance.
Orta San Giulio & Lake Orta
A small medieval village on the shores of Lake Orta, often described as one of the most charming lakeside towns in northern Italy. From the lakefront and narrow streets you can enjoy views of the Isola di San Giulio and the surrounding hills.
Ideal for an early-morning or late-afternoon walk, a short ferry trip to the island, or simply sitting by the water after an intensive day at the Winter School.
Sacro Monte di Orta (UNESCO)
A UNESCO World Heritage site on the hill above Orta San Giulio, with chapels and artworks dedicated to the life of St Francis, immersed in a panoramic park overlooking the lake.
A quiet place for a contemplative walk, combining art, history and wide views over Lake Orta and the surrounding villages.
Monte Mottarone
A mountain between Lake Orta and Lake Maggiore, known for its 360° views over the surrounding lakes and the Alps. From the top you can see multiple lakes, Monte Rosa and a large part of the Po Valley.
A good option if you want a half-day hike or a panoramic viewpoint within easy reach of Armeno.
Lake Maggiore & gardens
In about half an hour you can reach Lake Maggiore, with lakeside towns like Stresa and Verbania, and famous gardens such as Villa Taranto or Villa Pallavicino.
Perfect if you plan an extra day in the area and want to combine the quiet of Lake Orta with a broader visit to the lake district.
For more ideas – including other sanctuaries, botanical gardens, family activities and shopping options – you can explore the dedicated page curated by the venue: