The Borromean Islands

Isola Bella

Isola Bella is undoubtedly the most famous of the Borromean Islands and when you see it today you can hardly imagine it as the tiny fishing village it once was. The Palace itself is full of ornate rooms which remind you of a past full of grand receptions and sumptuous feasts. The most curious part of the Palace are the grottoes; the walls are adorned with a mosaic of shells and pebbles and are a welcome retreat on a hot day!! After visiting the Palace, you exit into the magnificent gardens which are made up of no less than 10 terraces which slope down towards the lake. As well as the rare and exotic plants which provide the gardens with colour from March to October, there are interesting features such as the open-air theatre and the "Piano della Canfora" which houses a 150 year old laurel tree.

Isola Madre

Isola Madre is the largest of the Borromean Islands and boasts a tranquil and enchanted atmosphere. Its gardens are a pleasure to explore: filled with azaleas, camellias, rhododendrons, ancient wisteria they are truly beautiful. The gardens are also home to the largest Cashmere Cyprus in Europe and pheasants and peacocks roam freely around. The 16th century villa houses a collection of period rooms, dolls and porcelain. There is also an exhibition of small puppet theatres dating back to the 17th and 19th centuries. Read about one of our visits to Isola Madre on our blog

Isola Pescatori

In contrast to the other Islands, Isola Pescatori (also known as Isola Superiore) has retained it's original charm. The Island has remained a quaint, picturesque fishing village with the traditional fishing boats anchored along the shore. The ancient Church of S. Vittore is definitely worth a visit whilst you are there, as are the artists house and the fishermen's museum. Then there is nothing better than taking a seat in one of the many excellent fish restaurants for lunch or dinner.

Borromean Islands FAQs

Where can we buy tickets?

You can buy tickets for Isola Bella and joint Isola Bella + Isola Madre tickets at our travel office in Stresa. With these tickets you can skip the ticket office line and go straight to the entrance.

How do we get to the islands?

The public ferry company offers a great service running almost every 30 minutes to and between the islands. We are official agents for the ferry company so come and see us for tickets. For further info on ticket types see our dedicated ferries page

We are a tour group, can you help us visit the islands?

Absolutely! Please visit our dedicated groups page.

Are the islands suitable for the less mobile?

For visitors who rely on a wheelchair or have severe walking difficulties, the palace and gardens of Isola Bella and the whole of Isola Madre are not easily accessible due to the number of stairs and difficult terrain. Please note the terrain on Isola Bella (outside the palace and gardens) and Isola Pescatori is uneven, may have steps and is gravel in some places.