Camping Orta

I wouldn't stay here again. I know it's partly my fault for choosing the wrong place, but I felt I had to report how little kindness I was shown, especially after the Italian remark in response to my very real confusion and frustration. I'm a student traveling alone, and I honestly didn't know the checkout time. I checked out late, and of course I would have packed up in time if I'd known. The women at reception showed no understanding and insisted I pay for two full nights. It takes me a lot of time and effort to save for trips like this, so I got quite upset and teared up a bit. They made a rude comment about it in Italian, not realizing I understood the language fluently. The conversation itself had happened in English, and the comment left me even more uncomfortable and embarrassed. I understand that the campsite wants guests to follow its rules. But I think it's the campsite's responsibility to remind people of checkout time. A simple courtesy call is the minimum for a place with a checkout rule. Not contacting a guest and then taking advantage of their not knowing about a sudden policy feels like a scam and a disgrace.

Lake Orta itself is gorgeous, and the place was well located for exploring the area, including a trip over to Lake Maggiore and its islands, 30 mins away. We had a good family stay overall, even though we were initially disappointed with the accommodation. It also turned out cheaper than we'd worked out ourselves, which helped.

The town of Orta is an easy walk away, and the grassy beach, bar and mini-market are handy. Our ACSI pitch had a lovely lake view. But the site is crossed by a busy road, and the restaurant next door was loud, with karaoke and disco music one evening. Reception felt impersonal, and a cleaner shouted at my wife when she just needed to use the toilet.

I could walk to the old town, and the campsite has its own beach. The pitches are spacious, the toilets clean, and hot showers are free, with no coins or tokens needed. The lake views make it one of the best campsites I've stayed at.