The Northern Italian lakes of Maggiore, Como, Lugano and Garda, along with the many smaller lakes, form one of the most beautiful and exciting areas in Europe. Located where Italy meets the Alps and northern Europe, the region has always been of great strategic importance and is steeped in history, with sights ranging from prehistoric remains to Roman ruins, Lombard Romanesque churches and magnificent Renaissance architecture. The cities and towns contain many art galleries, churches, castles and fortresses, including some built by Verona's most famous medieval family dynasty, the Scaligeri. The area is also a gourmet's delight, famed for its wonderful food as well as its wines, many of which bear such familiar names as Bardolino, Valpolicella and Soave. Before the age of mass tourism, Lake Como was a retreat for British connoisseurs, including the Romantic poets Byron, Shelley and Wordsworth, who were all regular visitors, and the novelist DH Lawrence, who lived here from 1925 to 1927.

The modern tourist can enjoy windsurfing, golf, hiking, climbing or simply sunbathing on the shore, or taking in the views from the deck of a luxury steamer. The shores of the lakes are lined with stylish villas, magnificent parks and gardens. Each lake has its own character and shape, making it a variegated paradise on earth for the discerning traveler.

The Insight FlexiMap of the Italian Lakes is a great travel addition. Here is an innovative laminated folding map that marries durability and convenience with accuracy, utility, and readability.

Produced with state-of-the-art technology, FlexiMaps feature detailed city street and road maps clearly marked with all the sites and services of particular interest to travelers.

Text and photographs offer a wealth of valuable tourist information including "10 sights you shouldn't miss," plus information on transportation, visas, currency, important telephone numbers, emergency services, and more.

Price: $7.95