Overview
A large English-style garden surrounded by the waters of Lake Maggiore
The largest of the Borromean Islands, the small archipelago emerging from the waters of Lake Maggiore between the towns of Stresa and Verbania, Isola Madre, 220 metres wide and 330 metres long, is the furthest island from the coast. It emerged as early as the Ice Age and today is dominated by a large English-style garden designed by architect Filippo Cagnola.
Adding to the beauty of this little pearl of Lake Maggiore, for centuries associated with the Borromeo family, are the 16th-century palace, the greenhouses and the family chapel. You can explore the elegant building to get a taste of the life of the Borromeo family, amid porcelain, period chandeliers, family paintings, four-poster beds and the traditional puppet theatre with which aristocrats would entertain guests in the mid-17th century. We recommend strolling through the garden, among magnolias, wisteria and citrus trees.
Private for many years, today the wonders of Isola Madre are open to the public. The island is accessible by boat from all the main towns on Lake Maggiore. We also recommend taking the opportunity to combine this trip with a visit to the nearby Isola Bella.
Isola Madre, 28838 Stresa VB, Italia
