These three islands, Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori, offer a delightful escape from the stress of everyday life. Located in front of Stresa and Baveno, each island has its own distinct character, but they all share a common thread: breathtaking beauty, rich history, and a touch of Italian elegance.
There is more, Borromean Islands also include the tiny Island of San Giovanni and the Scoglio della Malrghera.
Ever since the 14th century, the powerful Borromeo family has been shaping these islands into the masterpieces we see today. The Borromean Islands were even featured in The New York Times as one of the ten most fascinating places in the world!
Borromean Islands Description
Isola Bella, the most famous of the islands, is a sight to behold. With its majestic palace, terraced gardens, and stunning views of the lake, it’s like stepping into a fairytale. The island’s Baroque palace, built by the Borromeo family in the 17th century, is a masterpiece of Italian architecture. Its lush gardens, filled with exotic plants and sculptures, are a testament to the family’s wealth and influence.
Isola Madre, on the other hand, is a botanical paradise. This island is a treasure trove for nature lovers, with its diverse collection of plants, flowers, and trees. From towering palms to delicate orchids, you’ll find a wide variety of flora here. And let’s not forget the island’s free-roaming peacocks, which add a touch of exotic charm.
Isola dei Pescatori is the only inhabited island of the three and offers a glimpse into traditional Italian life. Its narrow streets, colorful houses, and bustling harbor create a charming atmosphere. You can enjoy a delicious meal at a local trattoria, browse through the shops, or simply relax on the waterfront.
What to Expect at Borromean Islands
Three main things you’ll find here: a touch of royalty, nature’s wonderlands and some remember memories. The Borromean Islands are renowned for their extravagant villas, built by the Borromeo family over centuries. Each island boasts a unique palace, filled with exquisite art collections, ornate furnishings, and lavish gardens. It’s like stepping back in time to a bygone era of opulence.
Beyond the grandeur of the palaces, the islands are a botanical paradise. Isola Madre is famous for its terraced gardens, bursting with exotic plants, flowers, and towering trees. Isola Bella, on the other hand, features Italian-style terraced gardens, complete with fountains, statues, and grottoes. And if you’re a nature lover, Isola dei Pescatori offers a glimpse into the traditional fishing lifestyle, with its quaint houses and charming waterfront.
To reach the Borromean Islands, you’ll embark on a scenic boat trip across Lake Maggiore. As you cruise past the painting-style shoreline, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Italian Alps and the surrounding countryside.
The Origins of Borromean Islands
Imagine a time before the Borromean Islands were synonymous with luxury and opulence. Back in the 14th century, these islands were just a series of rocky outcrops in the middle of Lake Maggiore. That’s when the powerful Borromeo family decided to make them their own. This influential Italian family, originally from San Miniato, saw the potential of these islands and began to transform them into the breathtaking havens they are today.
They started by turning the islands into lavish private estates. Each island was meticulously designed and landscaped, with stunning palaces, intricate gardens, and beautiful architecture. Over the centuries, these islands became a symbol of the family’s wealth and power.
Today, the Borromean Islands are one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations. Visitors come from all over the world to marvel at the beauty of these islands and to learn more about their fascinating history. But it’s important to remember that these islands are more than just tourist attractions. They are a testament to the vision and creativity of the Borromeo family, and they continue to be a symbol of Italian elegance and style.
Top Attractions in Borromean Islands
The Borromean Islands offer a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and recreational activities. Here some of the must-see attractions that you can’t miss:
– Borromean Palace in Isola Bella: The palace itself is a marvel of Baroque architecture, with ornate facades, grand halls, and lavishly decorated rooms. As you wander through its halls, you’ll be greeted by intricate frescoes, antique furnishings, and priceless art collections.
But the real showstopper is the palace’s terraced gardens. These meticulously landscaped gardens are a testament to the Borromeos’ love of nature and their passion for creating a horticultural masterpiece. Keep your eyes peeled for hidden grottoes and secret pathways that offer stunning views of the lake.
One of the highlights of the palace is the Barocchetto Room, a small chamber adorned with intricate stuccowork and frescoes. This room is a masterpiece of Italian decorative art and is a must-see for any visitor.
– Borromean Palace in Isola Madre: This elegant and understated palace is a treasure trove of history, art, and natural beauty. While the palace itself is certainly worth exploring, with its beautiful tapestries, antique furniture, and stunning views of Lake Maggiore, it’s the surrounding gardens that truly steal the show.
Gustave Flaubert once called Isola Madre “the most voluptuous place in the world“, and it’s easy to see why. The gardens on Isola Madre are a botanical wonderland, filled with rare and exotic plants from all over the globe.
As you wander through the lush greenery, you’ll encounter everything from towering bamboo forests to delicate orchids. The fragrance of blooming flowers fills the air, creating a truly sensory experience. But it’s not just the plants and animals that make Isola Madre so special. The palace itself is a work of art, with beautifully decorated rooms and stunning views of the lake.
– Isola dei Pescatori Borgo: Welcome to Isola dei Pescatori, the only inhabited island in the Borromean archipelago. The houses, stacked on top of each other, have these long, wooden balconies that were once used for drying fish. It’s a glimpse into the island’s rich fishing heritage.
Given the island’s name, it should come as no surprise that seafood is the star of the show here. Freshly caught fish is a staple on most menus, and many of the restaurants offer stunning lake views. Imagine savoring a plate of delicate whitefish while watching the sun set over the water. It’s a truly unforgettable experience.
While fishing is at the heart of the island’s identity, there’s more to Isola dei Pescatori than just seafood. The island also offers a peaceful escape from the stress of everyday life. You can explore the small local shops or simply sit back and enjoy the stunning views.
– Isola dei Pescatori San Vittore church: On the enchanting Isola dei Pescatori there is the Church of San Vittore. Let’s take a little journey together to discover this hidden gem. Now, don’t be fooled by its unassuming exterior. While the church may look relatively simple from the outside, its interior is a treasure trove of history and artistry.
The church’s origins date back to the 11th century, making it one of the oldest buildings on the island. Over the centuries, it has undergone various renovations and additions, resulting in a unique blend of architectural styles.
The church’s interior features three blind arches adorned with rows of bricks, illuminated by three elegant windows. These architectural elements offer a glimpse into the church’s rich history. Admire the stunning 16th-century fresco depicting Saint Agatha, as well as several 18th-century paintings that adorn the walls.
– Isola Bella borgo and Gardens: At the heart of Isola Bella is the stunning Borromean Palace. This Baroque masterpiece is filled with ornate rooms, beautiful frescoes, and a collection of art and furniture that spans centuries.
But it’s the gardens that truly set Isola Bella apart. These terraced gardens are a masterpiece of Italian Baroque design. Each terrace is a different color, thanks to the carefully selected plants that bloom at different times of the year.
Beyond the palace and gardens, there’s a charming village on Isola Bella. This historic village is home to colorful houses, narrow streets, and a few small shops. It’s a lovely place to wander and soak up the atmosphere.
What to eat in Borromean Islands
The shores of Lake Maggiore, and Borromean Islands in particular, offer a culinary journey like no other, thanks to its strategic location between Italy and Switzerland. The region boasts a rich gastronomic tradition, with a particular focus on fresh, local fish.
– Lake Fish, the Star of the Show: living on islands in a lake, it’s no surprise that fish is a staple on the Borromean Islands. The local waters are teeming with delicious fish like lavarello (whitefish) and lucioperca (zander). These freshwater fish are often prepared simply, grilled or pan-fried, to let their natural flavors shine through. You’ll find them in various dishes, from appetizers to main courses. Popular options include: Fritto di lavarello and Tagliatelle all’uovo con lucioperca.
– Wine and Beer Pairings: no meal is complete without a good drink. The Borromean Islands offer a wide selection of wines, including some of Italy’s finest. Pair your meal with a local red wine to complement the rich flavors of the meat dishes, or opt for a crisp white wine to pair with the seafood. If you prefer beer, there’s also a good selection of craft beers available.
– Where to Eat: you can enjoy delicious meals at several restaurants on the islands. Isola dei Pescatori, in particular, is known for its excellent seafood restaurants. Many of these restaurants offer outdoor seating with stunning views of the lake, making your dining experience even more enjoyable.
