Borromean Islands
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Latest page update: 22 January 2025
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By Dion Protani
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The Borromean Islands occupy a westward spur of the southern section of Lake Maggiore in the northern Italian region of Piedmont.
The island group consists of three small islands that are favourite spots for tourists, along with the islet of San Giovanni and a small rock called Lo Scoglio di Malghera. Named after the aristocratic Borromeo family which has owned them since the sixteenth century, the islands can be reached by ferry from the lakeside town of Stresa to the south or from the larger city of Verbania to the north. |
Isola Bella, Borromean Islands
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Isola Bella and Isola dei Pescatori
Each island has its own charm with perhaps the most popular being Isola Bella with its beautiful garden and accompanying palace, the Palazzo Borromeo. Isola Bella lies just off the shore of Stresa and from the island's north-western tip you can gaze directly across to the neighbouring Isola dei Pescatori with the tiny Scoglio di Malghera in between.
The fishermen's island of Isola dei Pescatori is of a similar size to Isola Bella but of a quite different character; whereas Isola Bella is all about manicured gardens and a grand palace, Isola dei Pescatori has a small number of residents whose economy was originally based around fishing but now also relies on tourism to a certain degree.
The fishermen's island of Isola dei Pescatori is of a similar size to Isola Bella but of a quite different character; whereas Isola Bella is all about manicured gardens and a grand palace, Isola dei Pescatori has a small number of residents whose economy was originally based around fishing but now also relies on tourism to a certain degree.
Isola Madre and Isolino di San Giovanni
Sitting roughly halfway between Stresa and Verbania is the pretty island of Isola Madre which again has a garden and its own Palazzo Borromeo that makes for an engaging visit.
The final island of the main group of four is the Isolino di San Giovanni, sometimes called the Isola San Giovanni and located just a short distance from the shore of Verbania. Also owned by the Borromeo family, it's the only one of the four that can't be visited without a special invitation.
The Borromean Islands will no doubt appeal to any gardening enthusiasts with Isola Bella and Isola Madre among the prettiest gardens in Italy. However, even better than those two are the incredible gardens of Villa Taranto which have their own ferry jetty just south of Verbania.
To visit all three islands and Villa Taranto in one day might be pushing things a little too far but you can just about visit the three gardens in one day or alternatively, the three islands on the same day.
The final island of the main group of four is the Isolino di San Giovanni, sometimes called the Isola San Giovanni and located just a short distance from the shore of Verbania. Also owned by the Borromeo family, it's the only one of the four that can't be visited without a special invitation.
The Borromean Islands will no doubt appeal to any gardening enthusiasts with Isola Bella and Isola Madre among the prettiest gardens in Italy. However, even better than those two are the incredible gardens of Villa Taranto which have their own ferry jetty just south of Verbania.
To visit all three islands and Villa Taranto in one day might be pushing things a little too far but you can just about visit the three gardens in one day or alternatively, the three islands on the same day.
Isola Bella
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Isola Bella, one of the Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore in northern Italy, is a jewel of Baroque art and architecture. Located near Stresa, the island was transformed in the 17th century by the Borromeo family into a grand palatial complex.
The highlight is the opulent Borromeo Palace, featuring lavishly decorated rooms, priceless art, and historic furnishings. Surrounding the palace are exquisite Italianate terraced gardens adorned with fountains, statues, and vibrant flowers, culminating in a striking amphitheater-style design. Originally a rocky outcrop, Isola Bella is now a symbol of luxury and refinement. |
Isola Bella
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Isola dei Pescatori
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Isola dei Pescatori, also known as Fishermen’s Island, is the only one in the group with a permanent population, maintaining its traditional fishing village character.
Narrow cobblestone streets wind through quaint houses with balconies designed for drying fish. The island’s picturesque waterfront offers stunning lake views and numerous family-run restaurants serving fresh local cuisine. With origins dating back to the Middle Ages, Isola dei Pescatori has a rich history tied to fishing and trade. |
Isola dei Pescatori
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Isola Madre
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Isola Madre, the largest of the Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore in northern Italy, is renowned for its exquisite botanical gardens and historic charm.
Located near Stresa, the island features a stunning 16th-century palace surrounded by lush, terraced gardens filled with exotic plants, rare flowers, and ancient trees. Peacocks, pheasants, and other birds roam freely, adding to the idyllic atmosphere. Originally a vineyard and orchard, Isola Madre was transformed by the Borromeo family. The palace houses period furnishings, art collections, and puppets from historic family theatres. |
Isola Madre
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Isolino di San Giovanni
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The Isolino di San Giovanni is the smallest of the Borromean Islands and stands apart from the others with very few visitors setting foot on it.
During medieval times it was known as the Isola di Sant'Angelo but records show it under its current name since the 16th century. Although few people visit the island, it can clearly be seen from the shores of Lake Maggiore as it's by far the closest to the mainland. You'll certainly pass the island if you visit nearby Isola Madre with its beautiful gardens and palace. |
Isolino di San Giovanni
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