Situated on the western side of Lake Maggiore, directly opposite Stresa, the three Borromean Islands lie in a wide gulf surrounded by mountains. The islands take their name from the aristocratic Borromean family, who took ownership of the land in the 16th and 17th centuries. They built elegant luxurious palaces with beautiful landscaped gardens on the Isola Bella and Isola Madre, whilst the third of the island, named “dei Pescatori” after its age-old fishing community, was left to continue its traditional way of life.

Despite their alpine setting, the three Borromean Islands share a pleasant climate, but each offers a very different experience. Isola Bella was originally just a rocky crag inhabited by fishermen, in 1630 Charles Borromeo began the colossal building work that would completely transform the island. The ambitious project saw the palace and garden brought together in the form of an imaginary ship: the dock represented the prow of the vessel; the main palace was the bow deck and the raised terrace was the bridge. Construction lasted forty years and dramatically changed the face of Isola Bella, its palace and gardens are the epitome of opulence and luxury. In contrast, the Isola dei Pescatori, with its village unchanged by time, offers a fascinating simplicity. Finally, the exotic atmosphere of the lush and tranquil Isola Madre can be ascribed to the gardens that almost totally cover it.

The Borromean Islands are easy to reach from the main ports and are a must-see destination for every visitor to Lake Maggiore.