Cannero Riviera rises on a headland to the north of Verbania, which due to a natural inlet, has the enviable privilege of being protected from the cold winter wind. Its rather mild climate allows luxuriant Mediterranean vegetation to grow, characterized by citruses, palm trees and olive groves, and in the spring favours the early budding of its famous camellias, which every year, together wi th rhododendrons and azaleas, transform the town into a thriving flowered balcony over the lake.
Its narrow alleys are typically medieval, and are perfect for strolls where old dwellings and picturesque glimpses can be enjoyed such as the one of a little portico dug out in the rock. The exclusive homes of Massimo D'Azeglio and patriot Laura Solera Mantegazza can still be seen today.
The Castelli di Cannero (Cannero castles) - famous for their adventurous history - rise on two little islands just off shore.
This town’s name is associated with water and perhaps comes from the Celtic Cenn in ar (point on the water) or perhaps from the Latin Canore or Canerum (bed of reeds); the term Riviera was only added in 1947.
Cannero is the stage of many folkloristic and food & wine events throughout the year. Luminaria sul Lago (Lights on the Lake) is very charming and takes place the second Sunday in July on occasion of the celebrations for the patron saint. Festa d’Autunno (Autumn Festival) takes place the second Sunday in October and is dedicated to the seasonal flora and fauna preceding winter.
The headquarters of the Società Italiana della Camelia (Italian Camellia Society) are in town.
The region still has traces of the Cadorna Line, a fortified defence system built on the wishes of the homonymous general who started its construction in 1916. Cadorna intended the military complex to protect Italy from a possible German invasion through Switzerland. In reality, it was never used.
The town is the perfect place to participate in various sports surrounded by nature. These include those enjoyed in the nearby mountains in the Val Grande National Park (Nordic walking, mountain biking, excursions and walks for beginners and experts alike) and all water sports.
The attraction of Lido di Cannero (which has been awarded the Blue Flag since 2005) has resulted in the development of sports such as sailing, swimming, canoeing, windsurfing and fishing.