VerbanoCusioOssola

Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, commonly abbreviated VCO, is a province of the Piedmont region in northwestern Italy. Its capital is Verbania, a city on the western shore of Lake Maggiore. The name derives from three geographic features: Verbano (Lake Maggiore), Cusio (Lake Orta), and Ossola (the Ossola valleys).

Geographically, the territory covers parts of Lake Maggiore and the Ossola Alps, extending into high mountain terrain and including parts of the Val Grande National Park. The landscape blends lakes, rivers, and forests and includes alpine passes such as the Simplon Pass near the Swiss border. Principal towns along the lakeshore include Verbania, Stresa, and Baveno, while Domodossola anchors the Ossola valley inland.

History and administration: The province was established in 1997, having previously been part of the Province of Novara. It comprises numerous comuni, including Verbania, Domodossola, Stresa, and Omegna, among many others, each contributing to the region’s local governance and services.

Economy and culture: Tourism is a major economic activity, with lakefront resorts, the Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore (Isola Bella, Isola Madre, Isola Pescatori), and cultural attractions in Stresa and Verbania. The border with Switzerland supports cross-border trade and mobility. The area also relies on agriculture, small manufacturing, and outdoor recreation such as hiking and winter sports.

Notable features: The Val Grande National Park lies within the province and is one of Europe’s wildest natural areas. The Ossola valleys are known for scenic mountains, traditional villages, and access to alpine routes.