Stepping off the small boat onto Isola Bella last weekend felt like entering a dream.
This small island on Lake Maggiore, just 400 meters from the town of Stresa, captured my heart with its stunning Baroque palace and magnificent terraced gardens that cascade down to the water’s edge.
Isola Bella’s gardens represent one of Italy’s finest examples of 17th-century landscape design. They create a perfect harmony between architectural elegance and natural beauty.
The island is part of a trio known as the Borromean Islands, alongside Isola Madre and Isola Superiore. What makes Isola Bella truly special is the vision behind it—a rocky island transformed into a floating palace with elaborate gardens.
As I wandered through the ten terraced levels adorned with statues, fountains, and exotic plants, I couldn’t help but marvel at how the Borromeo family created this paradise.
My morning exploring the palace rooms filled with artistic treasures was wonderful, but it was the afternoon spent in those gardens that truly enchanted me.
The geometric precision of the Italian-style garden combined with views of the alpine lake created a sense of peaceful grandeur.
If you’re planning a northern Italian adventure in 2025, this botanical masterpiece deserves a spot on your itinerary—especially in spring when the camellias and azaleas burst into color.
History and Legacy of the Borromeo Family
The Borromeo family has shaped Isola Bella into the baroque masterpiece we see today, transforming a humble rock in Lake Maggiore into one of Italy’s most stunning garden palaces. Their vision, spanning centuries, created a perfect fusion of architecture, art, and nature.
Founding of Isola Bella
The Borromeo family has owned Isola Bella since the 12th century, but its transformation began much later. In the 1630s, Count Carlo III Borromeo started converting the simple fishing island into a magnificent retreat for his wife, Isabella.
The name “Isola Bella” (Beautiful Island) is thought to be both a tribute to his wife and a fitting description of what the island would become. Carlo envisioned a floating palace that would astonish visitors approaching by boat.
What amazed me during my visit was how the family conceived the island as a complete work of art from the beginning. They meticulously planned every aspect to create harmony between the palace and gardens, following baroque principles of grandeur and theatrical design.
The Borromeo Dynasty
The Borromeo family’s influence extended far beyond Lake Maggiore. They were powerful bankers and merchants who rose to prominence in Milan during the Renaissance, eventually becoming one of northern Italy’s most important noble houses.
Through strategic marriages and political alliances, they expanded their wealth and cultural significance. What impressed me most was their commitment to arts patronage and architectural innovation throughout generations.
Each Borromeo heir added their mark to Isola Bella, expanding the palace and enhancing the gardens with rare plants, elaborate sculptures, and terraced designs. The family collected priceless paintings and decorative arts that still adorn the palace walls today.
Their legacy includes not just Isola Bella but also nearby Isola Madre, another botanical wonder on Lake Maggiore that showcases their horticultural passion.
Napoleon’s Influence
Even Napoleon Bonaparte left his mark on Isola Bella. During his Italian campaign in 1797, the French general stayed on the island briefly. Local guides pointed out where Napoleon supposedly slept and the trees planted to commemorate his visit.
The Borromeo family temporarily fled during this tumultuous period, but returned after Napoleon’s defeat. I found it fascinating how the island’s history intertwines with major European events.
Some furnishings and garden elements show French imperial influence from this period. Napoleon and his wife, Josephine, reportedly admired the gardens, particularly the terraced designs that reminded them of military formations.
Despite this brief disruption, the Borromeo family maintained ownership through the centuries. Today, they still own and maintain Isola Bella, preserving its baroque splendor for visitors like me to enjoy.
Exploring the Palazzo Borromeo
As I stepped into the magnificent Palazzo Borromeo, I was immediately transported back in time to the golden age of Italian Baroque splendor. This stunning palace has been owned by the Borromeo family since the 12th century and stands as the centerpiece of Isola Bella on Lake Maggiore.
Architectural Marvels of the Baroque Palace
The palazzo’s exterior welcomed me with its imposing façade that hints at the treasures within. Built in the 17th century, this masterpiece of Italian Baroque architecture dominates the small island with its grand presence.
Inside, I wandered through a series of lavish state rooms, each more ornate than the last. The ceilings particularly caught my eye – they feature elaborate decorative work that had me constantly looking upward in awe.
The most surprising discovery was the grotto rooms on the lower level. These unusual chambers are decorated with black and white pebbles, shells, and marble, creating a cool retreat that must have been a welcome escape during hot summer days.
Walking through the grand hallways, I noticed how each room was designed to showcase the family’s wealth and taste. The palace layout flows beautifully from one spectacular space to the next.
Artistic Heritage within Palazzo Borromeo
The walls of Palazzo Borromeo are a treasure trove of priceless paintings and artworks. Family portraits hang alongside works by renowned Italian masters, telling the story of this influential family.
The tapestry collection left me breathless – massive wall hangings depict historical and mythological scenes in vibrant colors that have somehow maintained their brilliance over the centuries.
I was particularly drawn to the furniture throughout the palace. Ornate pieces from different periods showcase changing tastes and styles while maintaining a consistent sense of luxury.
The family’s collection of artifacts goes beyond just paintings, sculptures, decorative objects, and even a collection of puppets and period costumes adds depth to the cultural experience.
From the palace windows, I caught glimpses of the geometric gardens below, enticing me to explore the outdoor wonders of Isola Bella after my tour of this remarkable indoor sanctuary.
The Splendors of Isola Bella’s Gardens
Walking through Isola Bella felt like stepping into a dream where stone, water, and plants merge into perfect harmony. The gardens showcase Italian Baroque style at its finest, creating a paradise that sits majestically on Lake Maggiore.
Terraced Gardens’ Grandeur
The terraced gardens of Isola Bella took my breath away with their dramatic design. Rising like a stone ship from the lake, these artificial terraces create a theatrical display that’s pure Baroque extravagance.
I spent hours exploring the ten terraces that ascend in perfect symmetry. Each level offers a different perspective of the lake and surrounding mountains.
The centerpiece is the Teatro Massimo, an outdoor theater decorated with statues, obelisks, and fountains. Water features are everywhere, with fountains creating a soothing soundtrack as I wandered the pathways.
The Borromeo family, who built this island paradise in the 17th century, clearly spared no expense. Their vision turned a rocky island into one of Italy’s most spectacular Italianate gardens.
Floral Wonders and Exotic Plants
The plant collection at Isola Bella surprised me with its diversity and beauty. Vibrant rhododendrons create splashes of color against the formal hedges and stone architecture.
Mediterranean classics like citrus trees and olive groves thrive alongside rare exotic species. The microclimate of Lake Maggiore creates perfect conditions for plants that wouldn’t normally survive in northern Italy.
I was particularly struck by:
- Ancient camellias with delicate blooms
- Rare tropical specimens in protected areas
- Fragrant rose gardens with varieties from across Europe
- Meticulously trimmed boxwood creating geometric patterns
Some plants have been growing here for centuries, a living connection to the garden’s baroque origins. The gardeners maintain an incredible balance between wild beauty and formal design.
The Majesty of White Peacocks
The most enchanting surprise of my visit was encountering the famous white peacocks that roam freely through the gardens. These stunning birds add a magical quality to an already spectacular setting.
Their pure white plumage contrasts beautifully with the green foliage and colorful flowers. I was lucky enough to see a male display his impressive tail feathers, creating a snow-white fan against the backdrop of Lake Maggiore.
The peacocks seemed completely at home in this formal paradise, as if they were living statues complementing the stone sculptures throughout the garden.
Children nearby gasped with delight when the birds approached. These elegant creatures have become symbols of Isola Bella, representing the exotic splendor that makes this garden so special.
Experiencing Isola Bella’s Charm
Stepping onto Isola Bella feels like entering a living postcard where history, nature, and Italian elegance blend perfectly. The island captivates visitors with its panoramic views and local experiences that go beyond the famous palace and gardens.
Stunning Panoramas of Lake Maggiore
From Isola Bella’s terraced gardens, I witnessed some of the most breathtaking views in Northern Italy. The elevated position offers a 360-degree panorama of Lake Maggiore’s sparkling blue waters framed by the majestic Alps in the distance.
I found the best viewpoint at the top tier of the Baroque garden, where stone balustrades frame perfect photo opportunities. Morning visits provide clear mountain views, while afternoon light casts a golden glow across the water toward Stresa.
The narrow pathways between the island and neighboring Isola Pescatori create natural viewing corridors. I recommend bringing binoculars to spot distant lakeside villages dotting the shoreline.
Culinary Delights and Local Crafts
The small village area of Isola Bella offers surprising gastronomic treasures. I discovered a charming lakefront café serving regional Piedmontese specialties like risotto with perch – a Lake Maggiore delicacy that perfectly balances creamy rice with delicate fish.
Several family-run shops display handcrafted souvenirs that capture the island’s essence. The silk scarves with botanical prints inspired by the palace gardens make perfect mementos.
My favorite find was a tiny wine shop offering tastings of local wines from the hills surrounding the Italian Lakes. The proprietor shared stories about generations of winemaking traditions in the region.
Don’t miss the fresh gelato stands near the boat docks. I savored pistachio gelato while watching ferries glide across the water – a simple pleasure that embodied the relaxed charm of island life.
Visitor Tips and Practical Information
Planning your visit to Isola Bella requires some preparation to make the most of this stunning Baroque paradise. Here’s what you need to know before setting foot on this beautiful island in Lake Maggiore.
Best Times to Visit Isola Bella
The palace and gardens of Isola Bella are typically open from March through October. I found mid-May to early June ideal for my visit – the gardens were in full bloom but the summer crowds hadn’t arrived yet.
Morning visits (before 11 am) offer the most peaceful experience. Many tour groups arrive around midday, making the palace rooms quite crowded.
Weekdays are naturally less busy than weekends. If you visit in July or August, be prepared for more tourists and warmer temperatures. The gardens can get quite hot during summer afternoons with limited shade in some areas.
The weather around Lake Maggiore is generally pleasant, but spring showers can happen. I always recommend bringing a light jacket even on sunny days.
Guided Tours and Exploring on Your Own
When I arrived at Isola Bella, I had two options – joining a guided tour or exploring independently with an audio guide. The guided tours last about 90 minutes and provide fascinating insights about the Borromeo family, who built the Palazzo.
Tours are available in several languages, including English and Italian. I recommend booking in advance through the official website or Tripadvisor, especially during peak season.
Self-guided exploration with an audio guide gives you more flexibility. I spent nearly two hours in the palace alone, admiring the ornate rooms and stunning art collection at my own pace.
Don’t miss the grotto rooms on the lower level of the Palazzo! These shell-decorated chambers were my unexpected highlight.
For the gardens, no guide is necessary. The pathways are well-marked, leading you through the terraced gardens with their magnificent views of Lake Maggiore.
